The tourism industry holds a 10 percent share of the world’s economy, and eco-tourism is the crowning glory of the expanding travel and tourism industry. As the world moves towards an environmentally sustainable lifestyle and development, responsible, eco-friendly, and sustainable eco-friendly tourism is the need of the hour. India, a diverse hotspot of flora and fauna, is promoting eco-friendly traveling all over the country. International travelers can visit Tripbeam to find budget travel deals online and plan a visit to any of the 3 top eco-friendly travel destinations in India.
Meghalaya’s Mawlynnong Village is Asia’s cleanest village:
The “cleanest village of Asia” is a green hamlet that has brought laurels to the country. Recently awarded a silver medal as it is one of the best ecotourism locations, the lovely village lies in East Khasi hills. It is a 90 km picturesque drive from the state capital Shillong.
An eco-tourism hotspot, the village boasts of environment friendliness and cleanliness. The plastic-free village boasts of eco-friendly cottages and homestays, and bamboo-made dustbins. The scenic green village has sky-high natural wooded ‘machans’ for tourists’ stay. International tourists can plan a budget trip to the beautiful village by booking cheap air tickets to India online.
There is another popular destination just 2 km away from the scenic village. A one-of-a-kind location, the living root bridge in Riwai village is an ultimate testament to man and nature’s harmony. The Khasi tribal villagers decided to build a nature-friendly bridge with growing intertwined roots of Ficus trees. Planning to visit the ecotourism hotspots in India this year? Find budgeted travel deals online and make a quick travel plan to India this holiday season.
“God’s own country” or Kerala started the first eco-tourism center in India:
With beaches, lakes, backwaters, and swaying palm trees in the background, Kerala is a traveler’s delight! A biodiversity biosphere, the state needed to safeguard its diverse flora and fauna. So, Kerala is the first state in the country to start an extensive and beautiful eco-friendly travel center in Thenmala.
The region is located on the eastern side of the Kollam district. Thenmala is located in the Western Ghats region of Kerala and is in fact the first planned eco-tourism center in India. The area covers 10 spots spread over the hills of Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, and Kollam. The destination is divided into three zones- cultural, adventure activities, and leisure activities. Visit the ultimate location to witness it all- treks, rock climbing, nature trail, boating, light and sound show, butterfly safari, deer rehabilitation center, and the lush green forested area.
Other Major eco-friendly spots in the state:
- Konni Village, near Pathanamthitta
- Parambikulam, Chittur Taluk
- Rhodo Valley, Kannan Devan Hills
Holiday season is near! Visit India, one of the 12 mega biodiversity countries of the world to get mesmerized by the variety of flora and fauna and landscapes. Book cheap air tickets to India online and make a memorable trip this year.
The cleanest state of India – Sikkim:
The smallest state in India is loved by travelers and tourists from across the world. Flaunting the picturesque and third largest peak in the world (8586 m above sea level)- Kanchenjunga- Sikkim is the cleanest state in India and loved by nature lovers, and eco-tourists alike. A gorgeous hilly state nestled in the lap of nature, Sikkim has gorgeous lush green landscapes, views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks, and unlimited waterfalls and streams which are breathtakingly mesmerizing and tranquil. Find cheap business class flights on Tripbeam and visit the scenic Himalayan kingdom this holiday season.
Sikkim is also India’s first “organic state”, which means all the locally produced vegetables and fruits are free from pesticides and harmful fertilizers. You can never find a plastic bottle or any other waste product on the streets of the proud state. Around half the state is under forest cover, and tourists get awestruck by seeing the variety of flora and fauna spread all over the lovely and peaceful state.
Sikkim hosts initiatives like Okhrey Ecotourism Festival and other programs to help rural societies in earning livelihood while maintaining their unique cultural heritage.
The government has done a commendable job in promoting environmental friendliness here.
Major ecotourism spots in the Himalayan state:
- UNESCO-recognized world heritage site- Kanchendzonga National Park
- Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Dichenling region
- Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Soreng
Checklist for a responsible eco-tourist:
- The first precondition of a responsible eco-tourist is to keep the environment clean. Throwing plastic bottles or any other non biodegradable waste into the environment should be strictly avoided.
- Read about the flora and fauna of the region and don’t feed or approach wild animals who have peacefully coexisted with the local communities for centuries.
- Avoid harmful habits like drinking or smoking in an environment-friendly zone. Many tourists may show inebriated and careless behavior like throwing beer bottles in the areas. Even smoking can start fires in the jungle area.
- Engage with rural communities and help them to prosper and grow.
The ever-growing travel and tourism industry will generate revenue and employment opportunities in the future. India is a haven for unlimited species of flora and fauna, and an eco-friendly model of development will tap into the growth potential while safeguarding mother nature. Make a booking for any of the above destinations this holiday season. Book last-minute cheap business class flights with Tripbeam for a budgeted travel experience.
Environment-friendly traveling has huge potential. It brings jobs and prosperity to local communities and creates harmony and balance in man’s relationship with forests and wildlife. It is a win-win situation for all three parties involved- mother nature, locals, and tourists. From sustainable transportation to responsible ecotourism behavior of tourists, the idea of eco-tourism goes beyond just traveling. It encourages travelers to give back to the rural communities and mother nature, and ensure a positive, safe and prosperous future for everyone.
Also Read: 6 Reasons You Must Plan A Trip To North-East India