A Guide to Eco-Friendly Tourism in India
With more traveling comes bigger responsibility! The sooner we understand this, the better it is for us and nature around. Ecotourism in India might not be a very popular terminology, but those who care about it are doing their bit to conserve country’s natural heritage, even if it’s one baby step at a time. Being aware of small changes, promoting the lesser developed areas, and upholding the traditions and culture of the place are our responsibilities as a traveler. Let’s begin with delving slightly deeper into how ecotourism in India
What is ecotourism?
Ecotourism is travel which focuses on nature and wildlife conservation. It also improves the environment around you by reducing pollution, encouraging local communities to practice responsible environmental practices, and encouraging local tourism. Ecotourism programs that do this would be known as sustainable ecotourism, which includes bird watching, hiking, camping, adventure sports, and other such activities. While you can easily go to places and participate in the activities that are aligned to eco-friendly practices, what’s more rewarding is spending time at an exotic place, learning about the wildlife, and having fun. What is sustainable tourism? Sustainable tourism is a ‘for everyone’ kind of tourism. It doesn’t have to be limited to ecotourism.
What are the benefits of ecotourism?
For starters, it connects us to our planet! The original home of all living beings, our planet is our mother! Every beautiful nook and corner of the world should be visible through our eyes, to respect this can be our first step. What’s more, ecotourism promotes less economic tourism in an attempt to promote local economy and our eco-system. An island of sorts that we call the Ganga Delta, Allahabad is one such destination that has immense tourism potential. Let’s look at a few factors that facilitate ecotourism in India: Nurture the roots Nature doesn’t have borders. All it needs is proper attention. Conservation isn’t a hard term to understand. It doesn’t cost a dime to protect the endangered species of a place, no matter how big or small.
Where can I find ecotourism in India?
As there are many reasons for people to travel, the location and nature you will visit are also important. For example, the end of September-early October, the time when you’ll witness the end of monsoon in India, is a great time to go trekking and camping because it is the last rain season for a while, which gives you the best chance of witnessing the green forests in their glory. You can try your luck trekking to Thondi in Rajasthan. Last year, the second place on the list of top 10 eco-friendly travel destinations of India by Green Traveler magazine was Jaisalmer, and Thondi was in 12th place. The area boasts of incredible sandstone monuments, palaces, and heritage sites that are similar to the Valley of Flowers.
What are the challenges of ecotourism?
The first challenge to be tackled is actually getting people to realize the importance of eco-tourism in India. During the times we have seen, we have seen hotels going the extra mile to ensure that the guests’ stay is eco-friendly. The electricity they put in the rooms has been done in such a way that it doesn’t harm the planet as well as the ecosystem. To encourage ecotourism, there needs to be laws that include in making the eco-friendly travel experience of the tourists. The second challenge involves the protection and preservation of the eco-system. As stated in the guide to wildlife by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), since 2001, around 30–40% of the forest cover in India has been lost.
Myths about ecotourism
A few of my relatives had tried visiting uttrakhand with mixed emotions. I told them that they have nothing to be worried as ecotourism in India has changed quite a bit and is rapidly improving, and with the government’s assistance it’s going to become a bigger and better concept in years to come. Firstly, the growing interest of the foreign travellers to witness the sights, eco-tourism has introduced in the form of resorts and dedicated packages to offer respite from the humdrum life. Secondly, not only are we saving the natural heritage from dangerous pollution, it also makes our life safer. Before I continue, I would like to speak about the difference between sustainable tourism and eco-tourism.
Conclusion
Every place has its charm and even the most dismal ruins have hidden beauty. Travelling, for those who do so responsibly, can bring you closer to the local flora and fauna. Since the habitat of the wild is quickly depleting, there is a greater need to create awareness amongst people about respecting and conserving the nature.
