Himachal Pradesh

Lying in the vicinity of the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is blessed with snow-capped mountains, lush greenery and stunning landscapes. The state witnesses tourists from all parts of the world. The state is also popularly called the ‘Land of Snow’. Himachal Pradesh is one of the most popular destinations among the local tourists who travel to the state to get a respite from the scorching heat of the metro cities.

However, increased tourism has resulted in increased commercialization. There are a few organisations that are working towards promoting ecotourism in the state. One such organisation works in Spiti valley initiating rhsome village treks and inculcating a positivity among the people and to the place. They also work towards sustainable livelihood and emphasize on volunteer travel. The other promotes community-based practices helping in the conservation of rich biodiversity of the state.

Major Attractions:

Himalayan Nature Park, near Shimla

Churdhar Sanctuary, Sirmour

Chail Sanctuary, Solan

Eco-friendly Accommodations:

Khem Bharti Homestay, Tirthan Valley

The Himalayan Village, Kullu

Sanjiv’s Aira Holme Retreat, Shimla

Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, also known as “Devbhumi” which means “Land of God” is blessed with serene beauty and offers tranquillity to its visitors. The towering mountains and dramatic terrain covered with dense lush green forest along with an abundance of water bodies, the place truly feels like a ‘dev bhumi’. There are plenty of religious sites that draw Hindu pilgrims to the state in large numbers. Similar to any other tourism site, the state is also suffering due to irresponsible tourism. 

The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, Ecotourism Division of Forest Department and Vikas Nigam have jointly initiated a program to make tourists aware of their surroundings. They have initiated few village treks, and are supporting locals in promoting sustainable tourism in the state. 

Major Attractions:

Corbett National Park, Nainital

Valley of Flowers, Garhwal Region

Nanda Devi National Park, near Nanda Devi Peak

Eco-Friendly Accommodations:

Ecolodges in Jayalgarh and Auli

Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh is blessed with beauty beyond imagination. It is the jewel of North East India. The state is rich in wilderness and scenic beauty. It is also known for 26 remote mountain valleys and rich culture and indigenous tribes that invite travellers from all around the world to explore the state.

However, Arunachal Pradesh is among the least explored states of India, it is spared by the negative impact of tourism on its environment. To our relief, there are few organisations working in the state towards sustaining the environment of Arunachal Pradesh. Organisations like Green Pastures and Ngunu Ziro by Future Generations are working towards conservation by emphasizing on ecotourism by encouraging local stays and conserving the ancient tribal culture of the state. They are also working hard in spreading awareness about our responsibility towards the environment among tourists.

Major Attractions:

Namdapha National Park, Itanagar

Gorichen Peak, Tawang

Talley Valley Sanctuary, Ziro

Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Roing

Eco-friendly Accommodations:

Non-profit Homestays, Thembang

Homestays, Ziro

Toshi Palace, Aalong

West Bengal

The ‘Land of Contrast’, West Bengal proudly flaunts its pristine beaches, misty mountains, religious sites, cultural heritage and delicious food. The state is blessed with meandering rivers and lush green forests. West Bengal offers a surreal experience to its visitors along with delicious food.

The government of West Bengal has taken initiative in their own hands to make tourism to the state more sustainable and responsible towards the environment. The government is also working closely with the local communities to promote rural tourism and ensuring equitable profit sharing. The government is also organising cultural festivals from time to time in order to make tourists familiar with the traditional handicrafts and other activities.

Major Attractions:

Tea Gardens, Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling

Sunderban Tiger Reserve, Sunderban

Neora National Park, Darjeeling

Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Alipurduar

Eco-friendly Accommodations:

Seventy-Six Miles Homestay, Siliguri

Blue Homestays, Doars

Rangbhang Homestay, Mirik

Sikkim

Yet another state from the seven sisters, Sikkim is one of the most unexplored places in India. The place is blessed with majestic sights, lush green forests that are rich in flora and fauna. The state is surrounded by the mystic Himalayas that provide serene beauty to the state along with breathtaking landscapes. Sikkim is home to the world’s third-highest mountain peak, the mighty Kanchenjunga.

The government of Sikkim has initiated several conservation programmes to preserve this beautiful state. Measures are being taken around the forests and surrounding areas for the development of sustainable tourism. The members of local village bodies contribute greatly to the conservation of wildlife in national parks and sanctuaries.

Major Attractions:

Kanchendzonga National Park, near Chungthang

Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Dichenling Area

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Namchi

Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, near Soreng

Eco-friendly Accommodations:

Teen Taley Eco-Garden Resort, Rumtek

Cherry Village Resort, Pelling

Kerala

Known as the ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala is the first state of India to execute planned tourism. There is nothing not to love in the state, the breathtaking landscapes, sparkling backwaters and nutritional food. The Western Ghats is one of the best 18 biodiversity hubs that house vibrant wildlife. 

The Kerala Tourism is running a Thenmala Ecotourism Programme in the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary for the conservation of wildlife. It is also making best efforts in spreading awareness with the help of community services. Some self-help groups are also organising eco-friendly backwater tours by using biofuel to prevent environmental pollution. 

Major Attractions:

Thenmala, near Kollam

Konni Village, near Pathanamthitta

Parambikulam, Chittur Taluk

Rhodo Valley, Kannan Devan Hills

Eco-friendly Accommodations:

Wild Elephant Eco-friendly Resort, Munnar

Ashtamudi Villas, Kollam