"Tick tick boom!" or "Mother Nature is dropping dead and deserves our support!" are the chants you will probably hear every now and then. It’s a true fact that nature needs us. Have you ever planted a tree yet? Do it as soon as you can! You obviously love to travel and discover new places, but have you ever considered how you can both travel and safeguard the environment? So, in order to encourage you to join in, this guide is designed to inform you about a brand-new idea called "ecotourism" as well as the destinations where you may discover it.
What is Ecotourism and why we need it?
Ecotourism, put simply, is the kind of travel that is most environmentally friendly. It entails seeing Mother Nature in its purest state while not damaging her. Indulging in eco-friendly, sustainable, and helpful activities is becoming increasingly common among tourists in this region. Utilizing ecologically friendly modes of transportation to access natural places, protecting the environment, and enhancing community welfare are all part of responsible travel. Environmentalists have viewed ecotourism as a vital endeavour since the 1980s in order for future generations to visit places that have predominantly escaped human interference.
India NEEDS ecotourism as it will assist in safeguarding the natural ecosystems and species there. Numerous species of wildlife can be preserved by ex-situ or in-situ conservation. As more travellers visit these locations, it will help the local tribesmen and their village gain some notoriety and receive benefits. All regimes have had a significant negative impact on the indigenous community; now is the time to make amends. The money made through ecotourism will be used for more beneficial initiatives, such as the development of isolated areas and long-term economic opportunities in India. Raising awareness will aid in protecting the environment since there is no alternative earth if this one dies.
Now that you are familiar with the notion of ecotourism as well as its advantages, we have mentioned several eco-tourist places down below, where you may travel and make a positive difference.
Himachal Pradesh
A treasure trove of natural wonders can be discovered in Himachal Pradesh. You won't get enough of this area because of how stunning it is. Tourists are invited to spend some time in enchanting serenity by the combination of rich flora and breathtaking scenery. Rapid commercialization frequently has negative effects on the state. Two well-known organisations are striving hard to encourage ecotourism and slow down ecological degradation in this area. Ecosphere is an organisation that primarily operates in the Spiti Valley and places a strong emphasis on volunteerism and sustainable living. They also encourage goodwill toward the community and its residents. There is also the Ecotourism Society, which supports neighborhood-based initiatives that help preserve Himachal Pradesh's abundant biodiversity.
Few Destinations
- Lahaul Spiti
- Himalayan Nature Park
- Churdhar Sanctuary
- Chail Sanctuary
- Hatu Peak
Uttarakhand
A biodiversity hotspot, Uttarakhand is known for its tall mountains, stunning landscapes, abundant lush forests, and clear blue water. Uttarakhand is indeed a victim of reckless tourist activities. The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, in partnership with Vikas Nigam and the Ecotourism Division of the Forest Department, has contributed to the establishment of various village expeditions in an effort to introduce visitors to their unique environment. Together, the three entities work to aid regional landowners in encouraging sustainable tourism and offering enough funding to ensure uninterrupted work.
Few Destinations
- Dehradun Zoo and Thano Ecopark
- Dhanaulti Ecopark
- Nainital Zoo and Himalaya Botonical Garden
- Rajaji Tiger Reserve and Neer Jharna
- Jim Corbett National Park
Assam
With timeless elegance, Assam ranks among the North Eastern states that are most captivating. The One-Horned Rhinoceros, which is vulnerable, possesses a safe refuge there as well. Assam is experiencing environmental deterioration as a result of the expanding tourism sector. Two nonprofit groups, the Karbi Anglong Council and the Root Bridge Foundation, strive to enhance a number of the cleanest regions in Assam by developing rural tourism strategies. Workshops to encourage responsible travel with a focus on ecotourism practises are being organised by the Ecotourism Society in partnership with the Tourism of Assam.
Few Destinations
- Kaziranga National Park
- Manas National Park
- Nameri National Park
- Pobitora wildlife sanctuary
- Notun Leikol Village
Sikkim
One of the "Seven Sister States," Sikkim, is an undiscovered jewel with a diverse array of plants and animals. It is one of those places where visitors can experience breath-taking events, fine dining, and spectacular scenery. The mysterious Himalayas envelop the nation's tiniest state. The third-highest peak in the world, the massive Kanchenjunga, is also located here. Active participation by Eco-Development Committees contributes to the preservation of these protected places. They take care of animal conservation in sanctuaries and national parks and are generally members of the village government.
Few Destinations
- Upper Dzongu Forest Block
- Yoksum birdwatching
- Kanchendzonga National Park
- Kyongnosla Alpina Sanctuary
- Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
Kerala
This alluring coastline region, which is nestled inside the Western Ghats, is home to tea gardens, tranquil lakes, and peaceful scenery. One of the top 18 biodiversity hotspots, the Ghats are known for their abundant wildlife, which must be protected. The Shendurney Animals Sanctuary's wildlife is protected by the Thenmala Ecotourism Program. Kerala Tourism is also making an attempt to raise awareness in the community regarding eco-tourism by offering community programs. The self-help organisation is conducting an environmentally friendly backwaters excursion as a part of the Village Ways Alliance. The environmentally friendly biofuel is being poured into the houseboats.
Few Destinations
- Thenmala
- Peppara and Aralam wildlife sanctuary
- Rhodo Valley
- Allappuzha
- Konni Village
You must explore these five locations. Why not help preserve the environment if you travel a lot? Encourage people to become ecotourists by becoming a proud one yourself. You'll save a lot of ecosystems this way, and future generations will thank you!
