Ecotourism

ECOTOURISM

What is Ecotourism?

Ecotourism (also called sustainable tourism) can be defined by a variety of travel practices, but it all comes down to a general set of ideas. As an Eco-tourist, you decide to travel in a way that shows respect to nature and does not contribute to its degradation.

As per The International Ecotourism Society,

“Ecotourism is now defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education” (TIES, 2015).  Education is meant to be inclusive of both staff and guests.”

Importance of Ecotourism

When we think of the joys that come with the adventures of traveling, we often envision exciting trips to beautiful places fit for a perfect photograph, unique foods you won’t find at home, and encounters with people who are much different from those we are accustomed to. Tourism allows us to do more than just learn facts about various locations. It allows us to immerse ourselves into the cultures and lifestyles of others and leaves lasting impressions that aren’t likely to be forgotten.

Ecotourism is valuable for people and the Planet

The rewards that come with the newness and the satisfying learning experiences of travel are irreplaceable, and these benefits can be enhanced through ecotourism. As an eco-tourist, you travel with more than personal satisfaction in mind. You help the planet and you enable people to lead a more fulfilling life.

Sustainable tourism is a learning experience for everyone involved

The more that we know about a place, our love and admiration grows and inspires us to protect it. Tour guides and hosts are educated on a deeper level in order to share knowledge with visitors while tourists come to appreciate the beauty of new surroundings. Adding to the visual appeal is the new perspective that comes with learning the historical and environmental significance of unfamiliar lands and buildings.

As we explore unknown places with a spirit of curiosity and kindness, we begin important discussions with locals and other visitors. Through their stories, we have an inside view of what the needs and desires of the people are.

Ecotourism Promotes Economic Stability

We live in a very diverse world full of eclectic people who live off the land and depend on what nature provides. Commercial tourist attractions may be placed in a specific area, but that doesn’t mean it gives back to these communities. Instead, large corporations tend to change the way of living for some natives depending on what will be most profitable. When this happens, locals often relocate and are devastated on both a physical and emotional level due to the stresses that come with moving.

  Ecotourism in India

 India, the land of varied geography offers several tourist destinations that not just de-stress but also rejuvenate you. There are several ways to enjoy Mother Nature in most pristine way. The few places like the Himalayan Region, Kerala, the northeast India, Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the Lakshdweep islands are some of the places where you can enjoy the treasured wealth of the Mother Nature. Thenmala in Kerala is the first planned ecotourism destination in India created to cater to the Eco-tourists and nature lovers                                                                      .

The India topography boasts an abundant source of flora & fauna. India has numerous rare and endangered species in its surroundings. The declaration of several wildlife areas and national parks has encouraged the growth of the wildlife resource, which reduced due to the wildlife hunt by several kings in the past. Today, India has many wildlife sanctuaries and protection laws. Currently, there are about 80 national parks and 441 sanctuaries in India, which works for the protection and conservation of wildlife resource in India.

There are numerous Botanical and Zoological Gardens in India, which are working towards the enhancement of the Ecosystem. Poaching has stopped to large extent. There are severe punishments for poachers, hunters and illegal traders of animals and trees. Tree plantation are taking place in several places. There are several animal & plant rights organisation, who fight for the rights of the animals and plants. Numerous organisations and NGOs are coming forward to provide environmental education to the common people at the grass root level.