If you’re anything like me, who loves exploring new places and experiencing different cultures then I have a question for you. Has the concerning aspect of climate change ever struck your mind? If yes, did you try taking any significant steps to tackle the situation?
As a traveler, I’ve been trying to make my travel adventures a bit greener. With climate change and environmental concerns becoming more pressing, it’s important for us to be conscious of our impact on the planet.
So, now during my journeys, I try to find eco-friendly travel activities that not only satisfy my wanderlust but also help preserve the beauty of our planet. And we will be discussing the same in this blog. So keep reading
Top Eco-Friendly Travel Activities in India that You Must Try!
Here’s a list of eco-friendly activities you can enjoy on your adventure trips:
Trekking and Nature Walks
Trekking is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature without leaving a heavy footprint. The best part? Trekking is inherently low-impact. It allows you to explore these pristine environments without the need for motorized transport, reducing carbon emissions. Plus, many treks support local economies by hiring local guides and using eco-friendly lodges.
India boasts numerous trails that offer breathtaking views and allows you to connect deeper with nature.
You can consider trekking in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is known for its rich biodiversity and wonderful landscapes. Besides this, the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand also makes for a wonderful trek filled with vibrant flora and fauna.
No matter what location you choose, just make sure to always stick to marked trails so that you don’t end up disturbing wildlife and fragile plant life. And remember to carry out everything you bring in, leaving no trace behind.
Cycling Tours
Cycling is not only a fantastic way to stay fit but also a superb method to explore India’s landscapes sustainably. It’s emission-free and allows you to experience the surroundings at a slower, more intimate pace.
In India, Kerala’s backwaters and lush greenery provide a serene backdrop for a cycling trip. Not only do you get to enjoy the fresh air and exercise, but you also reduce your carbon footprint. So it’s a win-win situation.
Wildlife Safaris and Bird Watching
Wildlife safaris are one of the most eco-friendly ways to explore the best of nature while contributing to conservation projects and local communities. The funds from tourism help maintain the parks and protect wildlife habitats. Moreover, these safaris often employ local guides and staff, providing economic benefits to the surrounding communities and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the natural environment.
One good example of this is the Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, which is famous for its Bengal tigers and offers eco-friendly safaris that support local conservation. Besides this, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, home to numerous bird species also makes for a great option for bird watching.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
India’s coastal regions and islands offer some of the most spectacular underwater experiences. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep with their crystal-clear waters, are perfect for exploring vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
However, while participating in underwater activities, make sure to use reef-safe sunscreen to prevent harming marine life and bleaching the coral reefs. The impact of chemical sunscreens on the marine environment has been a growing concern among ocean scientists and beachgoers. And this has even led to a ban on sales of chemical sunscreens in many parts of the world.
Food Tours
Food tours focusing on sustainability are both delightful and eco-friendly. Exploring organic farms and local kitchens in Punjab or learning about fair-trade practices in Darjeeling’s tea plantations offers a delicious way to understand sustainable food production.
Sustainable food tours reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and promote local, organic produce. They provide economic benefits to local farmers and educate travelers on the importance of sustainable farming practices. Enjoying a farm-to-table meal not only supports local economies but also ensures that you are consuming food that is fresh, healthy, and grown with respect for the environment.
Canoeing and Kayaking
Kayaking and canoeing are the best ways to enjoy waterways as they don’t create any loud noises or release gas or oil into the water that might harm the water bodies. Hence, these activities have a minimal environmental impact and provide a slow and peaceful way to observe wildlife and enjoy its natural beauty.
The backwaters of Kerala with tranquil waterways lined with palm trees and vibrant wildlife are perfect for kayaking.
What More Can You Do?
Besides the activities, you can also follow some mindful practices to take a step towards the conservation of nature. Some of these include:
Volunteer for Conservation Projects
Combine travel with meaningful work by volunteering for conservation projects. This could involve anything from wildlife rescue to reforestation efforts. Opportunities such as sea turtle conservation in Odisha and reforestation projects in the Western Ghats allow you to make a positive impact while collecting some precious memories and meeting like-minded individuals.
Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation
Choosing to stay in eco-friendly accommodations is a great way to reduce your travel footprint. Look for hotels and lodges that use renewable energy, practice water conservation, and support local communities. Ecolodges in Kerala and Himachal Pradesh offer an immersive experience in nature and are a perfect example of luxury with sustainability.
Sustainable Cruises
While traditional cruises can be quite harmful to the environment, sustainable cruises are making waves in the travel industry. These cruises focus on minimizing waste, using cleaner fuels, and supporting local economies. In India, river cruises on the Ganges in West Bengal and Brahmaputra in Assam offer eco-conscious voyages that focus on environmental education and conservation.
Also Read : 7 Essential Mindful Travel Practices for Stress-Free Trips
Making Your Travel More Eco-Friendly
Alright, now that we’ve explored some top eco-friendly travel activities, let’s talk about how you can make your overall travel experience greener:
- Firstly, while packing for your travel, try adding reusable items like water bottles, shopping bags, and utensils, and opt for biodegradable toiletries and organic fabrics.
- Besides, always aim to reduce waste by using reusable containers and bags, and recycle whenever possible. Be mindful of your water usage by taking shorter showers and reusing towels at hotels.
- Supporting local economies is another way to make your travel more eco-friendly. Buy souvenirs from local artisans and eat at locally-owned restaurants.
- Take out some time to learn about and respect the local customs and traditions, which will not only help enrich your experience but also support cultural preservation.
- Try to choose public transportation options as this will help to reduce your carbon footprint. In case, renting a car is necessary, try to carpool with others or choose an electric or hybrid vehicle.
Conclusion
Traveling eco-friendly is not just a trend; it’s a responsibility we all share to protect and preserve our planet for future generations. And trust me, every small step you take to make your travel adventures more sustainable counts.
So, the next time you’re planning a trip, consider these eco-friendly activities and tips. Not only will you have unforgettable experiences, but you’ll also be doing your part to keep our Earth beautiful.
