A SuStAinAble trAvel Guide...Vol 2, Issue 6 Responsibly & Sustainably tm ExpEriEncE Ladakh BEyond LEh city in Ladakhi ViLLagE homEs EktaaL—dhokra art crafts ViLLagE of chhattisgarh

Vol 2, Issue 6

Responsibly & Sustainably

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ExpEriEncE Ladakh BEyond LEh city in Ladakhi ViLLagE homEs

EktaaL—dhokra art crafts ViLLagE of chhattisgarh

transformation of a BarrEn Land into a Lush forEst

farmErs adopting rarE Birds dEspitE dangEr of Losing crops

Eco-friEndLy farm stay in himaLayan orchard

• Meet the artisans...• experience their work and learn...• Bond with the coMMunity... • experience local culture...• stay in a typical rural hoMe...• contriBute to environMent, choose an eco resort...• conserve wildlife, Biodiversity... BE a rEsponsiBLE tourist!

A SuStAinAble trAvel Guide

hoMestays in Bhutan, laos, nepal and sri lanka

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armStays Ladakh (state of Jammu & Kashmir) is an interesting initiative involving mothers and

other middle-aged women in Ladakhi villages who rent out rooms in their homes to tourists. Most of the young people have moved to the city of Leh to work or study. Now, the elders are responsible for every job in the household—right from looking after the farms to rearing cattle and more.

With the mission of improving the economy of these villages, FarmStays project was conceived with the notion of utilising the hospitality skills of the simple rural women. FarmStays project was started on a small scale in 2017. Most homes in the village have at least two spare rooms, letting them out to tourists is an easy and sustainable way of earning an alternative income.

Tourists can experience the true culture of Ladakh. Instead of just focusing on the artificial and made-up attractions in Leh, they get to live with the villagers, help them with their work, learn about

their culture and more. Currently, FarmStays has 12 families on board and the women are trained on how to get their homes ready to accommodate tourists.

As winters are challenging in Ladakh, FarmStays are open only for the summer months from May to September. But, eventually, Sonam Wangchuk, the man behind FarmStays, plans to help install solar heated rooms in each house so that the initiative can turn into a full year source of income. In just three months after the project started, the women earned more than Rs. 1,50,000 (approximately 1900 Euros).

All the families are very excited that they can get income right from their homes. More than the money, the women see dignity in what they do. Tourists also get to participate in the daily livelihood chores of the women which enables them to understand and appreciate their culture.

The lack of regular water sources in the region makes farming very difficult for the villagers. So Sonam and his team came up with the idea of the Ice Stupa Artificial Glacier. This involved freezing unused stream water into huge cones of ice during winters, which would then melt into springs providing water to farms and trees.

FarmStays Ladakh is now raising funds to help more families prepare their houses for farm stays, train more women, and extend the project to other places like Nubra, Pangong, Sham, Kargil and Zanskar.

https://www.facebook.com/FarmstaysLadakh/

experience ladakh beyond leh city in ladakhi village homes

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n intricate tapestry of music and visual art is what makes Naya more than just a village in

West Bengal’s Paschim Midnapore district. A quaint little village, Naya is home to around 250 patuas or chitrakaars, a unique community of folk artistes who are painters, lyricists, singers and performers all rolled into one. These traditional painter singers specialize in the ancient folk art of pata chitra, a type of narrative scroll painting.

The Patua community of West Bengal has practiced the ancient craft of patachitra since the 13th Century. Their diverse repertoire includes mythological stories and tribal folklore as well as social messages and narrations on contemporary events.

Over time, however, interest in this art form faded out. To establish it again, a group of innovative

patuas established a patachitra village at Naya. Slowly, their efforts to revive their artistic heritage started paying off. Today, after a period of decline, the patachitra art is flourishing again in the village, with village youngsters taking up the traditional art form as a passion and profession.

A pata is created by painting on a canvas made by stitching together multiple sheets of commercial poster paper. After finishing, a thin cotton cloth is glued to the back of the painting to provide longevity. Next, the completed scrolls are kept in the sun to dry. The patuas also paint wooden souvenirs, decorative hangings and mud walls with striking natural colours.

Presently, the patuas of Naya make rectangular and square-shaped paintings of different sizes—only a few of them still make

the traditional 20 feet long scrolls. In addition to stories from folklore, mythology and epics, the artists have started choosing their themes from contemporary events such as the French Revolution or the life of Mother Teresa.

Social messages like health awareness and conservation of trees also figure in their paintings. In addition to the scrolls, the patuas also paint single panel images of traditional subjects, such as fish, tigers or rows of cows.

The patachitra art tradition was customarily passed down from father to son, but today many patua women have also taken up the craft, guided by Dukhushyam Chitrakar (a highly respected senior painter). Led by her, these women have not only established themselves as excellent artists, but also as leaders within the community.

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exploring naya, bengal’s village of singing painters

Under an initiative ‘Art for Livelihood’, these women are spearheading local development. The patuas now paint on a diverse range of medium including cloth, clay and ceramic. With the support of the NGO, banglanatak dot com, the patuas have also founded a painter’s co-operative, CHITRATARU, that has helped their work, find new markets and audiences.

Thanks to this initiative, patas from Naya have found a place in renowned art galleries across the world. Many patuas from the village have won the President’s Award too. They have also participated in exhibitions, cultural exchange programs and festivals in USA, Germany, Australia, France, Britain, Sweden, and China, as well as all over India. With their work winning widespread acclaim, Naya is now regularly visited by art

collectors and enthusiasts from all over the world.

Since 2010, CHITRATARU has also been organizing an annual three-day festival ‘Pot Maya’ to celebrate the success of the local artists in reviving their heritage. Held in November every year, the festival showcases modern paintings as well as scrolls dating back hundreds of years.

The villagers paint the mud walls of their houses with colourful patachitra motifs and hang scrolls on ropes in the courtyards. With no hotel in the village, the patua’s house the visitors in their own homes and in tents.

With the onset of the festival, the quiet hamlet is transformed into a vibrant cultural hub where visitors can learn about the craft of patachitra. Several workshops are held, stories are told, and different types of pata artwork

are displayed for sale. Musical and dance performances by eminent artists start in the evening and go on well into the night. Demonstrations on natural colour extraction from sources such as marigold, indigo, teak leaves, saffron, and turmeric are also held.

Watching a patua singing gently in harmony with the soft colours and delicate imagery of his work, as oil lamps create a magical play of light and shadow over the canvas, is a spellbinding experience. If you are an art enthusiast, make time to the visit this unique village for a mix of traditional art and music in a beautiful rural setting.

Getting there: There are daily trains from Kolkata to Balichak (1.5-2 hours) on the Kharagpur line. Naya is 26 km/45 minutes from Balichak. Here, the only option for stay is with the artist’s house.

http://www.banglanatak.com/

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n recent years, there have been instances of people coming together for a common cause

but such action is usually initiated by non profit organisations or by government schemes. Punshilok in Langol Hill Range, 6 km from India’s north east, Manipur’s capital Imphal, is a notable exception. In a little over a decade, Punshilok has transformed from a dry, barren hill into a verdant forest teeming with wildlife. And this has happened due to the tireless efforts of a group of youngsters who work determined to restore the ecological balance that originally existed in the region.

In 2003, Moirangthem Loiya Ngamba was scouting for land to create a green space for the local communities. When Moirangthem came upon Punshilok it was a rock-strewn patch of land with nothing growing on it except for some wild weeds. The gurgling stream flowing through it had plenty of water but was used mainly by herds of cattle and sheep.

With the help of a few friends, Moirangthem started by clearing the area of weeds. Next, they cleaned and de-silted the stream, making it a good source of drinking water for the people of the valley. This was followed by a major afforestation drive, with young boys and girls working towards greening Punshilok.

To ensure that the saplings were carefully nurtured and protected, Moirangthem decided to make Punshilok his home. He built a small hut for himself and lived on the hill, all alone, for the next six years. Under his careful attention, lush green vegetation spread over the land, breathing life into it.

Today, Punshilok is a thriving forest that is a home to several species of wild animals such as pangolins, barking deer, porcupine and several species of birds. There are over 200 species of plants, including orchids, herbs and medicinal varieties, and over 20 species of bamboo growing in the forest. It is an important source

of minor forest produce for the local people.

Visitors from near and far also visit this scenic and serene place to bird watch, to meditate or to simply relax in the lap of nature. Lushly canopied mud paths, carpeted by fragrant blossoms, wind their way through the forest whose quiet environs is broken only by the chirping of birds and the distant beats of folk music, emanating up from the foothills below. Eco-friendly shelters, where visitors and volunteers can stay or rest after toiling in the forest and a small kitchen (run by the caretaker) at Punshilok is also available.

Moirangthem feels that Punshilok converted from a barren land into a thriving forest, inspires individuals, groups and organisations who visit the forest. So, he is now working to increase awareness about why a healthy, well-functioning ecosystem is important for the local economy.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/wahpsociety/

transformation of a barren land into a lush forest

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hhattisgarh in central part of India is blessed with abundance of nature, wildlife, arts,

culture, handicraft and a plethora of resources. Its virgin beauty is still untouched and unexplored by the common man, thus the land being a sure treat to visitors and tourists.

Chhattisgarh is densely forested with 44% of the land area. The state is among the top five in the country with largest national forest cover. It can boast of having 3 national parks, 11 wild life sanctuaries and 30 plus significant waterfalls and abundant caves.

Indrawati National Park, Kangerghati National Park, Barnawapur Sanctuary, Sita Nadi Sanctuary and Udanti Sanctuary are the prominent eco tourism destinations in Chhattisgarh. The Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary is a tiger reserve and eco resort.

Besides its stunning bio-diversity, Chhattisgarh is also replete with ancient monuments and temple sites, Buddhist stupas, palaces, waterfalls and lakes, hill plateaus and rock art. The state also boasts of caves with oldest stalagmite and stalactite formations in India.

The state is the home of the oldest communities of the Indian

subcontinent. The tribal population is 31% of the state’s population. This figure is nearly 10% of the national population. The tribal cultural arts are encouraged by giving performance to the tourist at the Chhattisgarh Tourism resorts.

Chhattisgarh is blessed with many indigenous performing arts of unique dance style, melodious folk songs and colorful dance dramas. A visit to this beautiful place will only be complete when one can also experience the uniqueness of the region.

Chhattisgarh nurtures some unique kind of handicrafts that are fundamental aspect of the state. The well known varieties are traditional bell metal, bamboo craft and craft items made of wood. Chhatisgarh is also well known for the metal crafts, clay artifacts, jewellery and paintings.

The Chhattisgarh Tourism resorts are polythene or plastic free zones, where it is encouraged to avoid the use of plastics.

Some of the important units of Chhattisgarh Tourism uses solar modules for generation of power which is consumed in the various activities at the resort. In fact the unit located at Barnawapara, Distt. Baloda Bazaar runs only on

off grid power as it is located in a highly sensitive area where it is not possible to install powerlines.

The state government has taken steps for the participation of the local population in the tourism sector of which many of the locals are now employed in the units of Chhattisgarh Tourism. The resorts are manned by people from the local population who have been trained in the reputed and international hotel chains for various hotel related activities F&B, Room Service, Housekeeping, etc.

In some of the tourist spots the local governance body has formed a cooperative such that the professionals provide services to the visitors and this also forms as a additional source of income to these people, while the administration oversees the various rules and regulations.

Chhattisgarh is the perfect place for sustainable tourism. To explore the yet to be widely documented treasure troves of intriguing cultures and relief features at a cost that won’t strain your budget, it is a best place and this chance you should not miss.

http://cgtourism.choice.gov.in/

sustainable tourism in chhattisgarh

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dyo—the organic village resort

Garlanded by lush green fields and a forest reserve for

wildlife, Dyo is much more than a luxury resort. Perched amidst the picturesque hills of Uttarakhand in Mukteshwar, on the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, is Dyo—The Organic Village Resort. Led by two young sisters, Kanika and Kushika Sharma, this luxury resort embodies a unique experience indeed.

Located about 350 kms away from the capital city Delhi, Dyo presents an opportunity for everyone to experience the joy and bliss of organic and natural farming. The name Dyo is derived from Sanskrit term that translates to ‘heaven’, and perfectly sums up the idyllic ambience of the resort that stands proud on the hill top of Amravati Estate, surrounded by apple, peach, plum, pear, apricot, walnut trees, local berries and various

other vegetables’ plantation with spectacular views of the Greater Himalayan peaks like Nandadevi, Trishul and Panchchuli for company.

Apart from a vast variety of organic fruits and vegetables and a delectable farm to table menu, Dyo also offers vacationers luxury rooms which have been designed to lend themselves to countryside feel, but arrive with state-of-the-art amenities in place.

The rooms are named after five universal elements—Urvi (Earth), Ira (Water), Viha (Air), Ark (Fire) and Vyoman (Ether). One can opt for luxury rooms or luxury suites; both designed using elegant country décor. With average space of 300 square feet, the rooms come with a sprawling comfortable bed, an en-suite bathroom and luxurious interiors. The space is perfect for experiencing the imposing mountains and the gorgeous valleys outside.

Homemade pastries, breads and cookies are baked fresh daily and served along with yogurt, jam and marmalade at Dyo’s house café. Taste the blooming freshness of the farm produce at their contemporary a’ la carte menu brings forth intense flavours that delight with their intrinsic simplicity. The Dyo café prioritizes the concept of farm to table

where the in-house garden ensures a steady supply of a large variety of fruits and berries, organic vegetables and herbs to the kitchen.

There’s plenty to indulge in for the avid nature enthusiast at the Dyo Resort. One can go for immensely soothing morning walks and bicycling in the farms and nearby region or just simply sit

back and sip a cup of tea while taking in the captivating view of the Himalayan range. Bonfires are arranged for the guests in the evening.

It is an exhilirating experience to take in the cool fresh breeze that completely rejuvenates one’s senses.

The farm also offers an opportunity to the visitors to witness the act of sowing and other organic farming techniques, which are considered distinctively

therapeutic and help reduce stress and increase concentration.

Guests here can also learn methods of water and energy conservation and recycling techniques.

Other nearby attractions worth a visit includes places like the Mukteshwar Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Chauthi Jali and the striking Nanda Devi peak.

The Sharma sisters not only wanted to share the stunning experience of natural beauty through the Dyo, but also help uplift the locals. By choosing to take under their wings school drop-outs, whom they have taught hospitality skills, the dynamic duo have turned their initiative into an avenue that provides employment and helps reduce hill migration.

The tourists can enjoy the rich local heritage and ambience without having to compromise on comfort.

Whether you choose to spend the day reading your favourite book and gazing the Himalayan peaks or get more active enjoy bicycling, you are sure to fall in love with the Dyo Organic Resort.

http://www.dyoorganicresort.com

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steps for eco-friendly practices

• Mountains have scarcity of water therefore at Dyo, rainwater is harvested using gravity based system and water supply drainage pipe.

• Fallen leaves, farm and kitchen waste are recycled for the preparation of manure using compost pits.

• Cow dung used for farm manure.

• Focus on energy conservation by installation of solar roof panels.


lessed with abundant natural vistas and rich bio-diversity, Thenmala region offers plenty of

opportunities to visitors for learning the importance of ecotourism in India. Situated in the Kolam district of Kerala, Thenmala covers ten ecotourism spots including the hill ranges of Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta and Kollam. Here you can take a break from your hectic city life and rejuvenate yourself.

The Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary would function as the centre of ecotourism in Thenmala and the periphery would host a variety of ecotourism activities designed to absorb majority of ecotourists. These activities include culture, leisure and adventure experiences, such as nature trails, mountain biking, sculpture garden, musical dancing fountain and an amphitheatre.

There is an interpretation centre in Thenmala, which includes information and programs on environmental education. No permanent structures have been constructed in the forest and accommodation has been developed well outside the forest and sanctuary, managed by private enterprises. The ecotourism products within the Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary are intended to be supply driven, thus sustaining the product and avoiding negative impacts of mass tourism.

Renowned for its rich biodiversity and eight divergent types of lush forests, the region in which the Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary exists, is one of the oldest river valley settlements in all of India. The sanctuary is the primary focus of ecotourism in Thenmala, however visitors have only limited access to some areas of the sanctuary, including pedal

boating on the Ottakkal reservoir and trekking in the designated tourism zone.

The three most popular ecotourism trails in the sanctuary are the Kallar trail, the Kuttilappara-Choodal birdwatching trail and the Dharbhakulam trail all of which will give ecotourists exposure to the exceptional array of flora and fauna in the sanctuary. There are over 950 species of flowering plants and almost 250 species of birds can be found in Shenduruney.

The culture, leisure and adventure experiences surrounding the sanctuary are promoted to ecotourists. Within the culture zone, visitors can better understand local cultures from the Kerala region, including food, art, dance and music.

The leisure zone includes a fascinating and poignant sculpture garden, representing

thenmala—the planned eco tourism destination

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man’s relationship with nature. There is also an enchanting fountain.

The adventure zone features an elevated canopy walkway, allowing visitors to experience the flora and fauna from the treetops. Other adventure activities include mountain biking, river crossing, rock climbing, and nature trails.

Ecotourism in Thenmala is afforded by a unique cooperative effort by the regional government, private enterprises and the local community. This is a model for a functional ecotourism destination and is one of the reasons for the success of Thenmala.

The government provides the framework and support within which the local community and the private sector work with each other to provide accommodation, transport, product management. Thus, it benefits the local culture and economy while preserving and protecting the environment.

Thenmala is located 66 kms to the east of Kollam and is a treasure trove of activities. Visits to Thenmala also include opportunities to observe some very unique spots. The Nakshatravanam, a nursery of trees that are considered sacred to the 27 constellations, has people thronging to it

to take home a sapling of the tree related to their own birth star. The enchanting 13 Arch bridge is a must see landmark for all Thenmala visitors.

A visit to the nearby Deer Rehabilitation Centre is a must as various species of deer are bred here. The barking deer, spotted deer and sambar deer can be seen peacefully grazing. They are released into the forest when the population reaches optimum levels. A boat ride in the majestic Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary caps off as a memorable trip to Thenmala. The rare flora and fauna on display are truly exquisite and will remain etched in your memory forever.

http://www.thenmalaecotourism.com

the scenic surprises that await visitors at this gorgeous green getaway thenmala

• Attractive Nature Trail

• Thenmala Parappar Dam

• Thrills in the Jungle

• Nature’s Dance

• A Tropical Treehouse

• A Historic Hanging Bridge

• The Pretty Palaruvi Waterfall

• Deer Rehabilitation Centre

• A Serene Sculpture Garden

• Heaven for Adventure Junkies

• The Enchanting 13 Arch Bridge

• Views of the Western Ghats

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ack in 2010, residents of Jharkhand’s Hesatu village were sharing their worries about the

wastelands in their area. During the discussion, someone proposed growing a forest of their own on the land. A draft was prepared by around 25-30 villagers and very soon, they started the work.

Today, around 93 households from the village have successfully raised forest cover of more than hundred thousand trees on 365 acres of wasteland—all by themselves.

All this while, the villagers have kept government and non profit organisations’ intervention at bay. They are happy with what they have achieved and are doing well on their own.

They started the work six years ago and dug the earth, ploughed it and planted vegetables the first year. With profits from vegetables, they started working on the bigger

project—that of growing trees by cultivating lac on kusum and ber trees on 200 acres. Now the area of community forest has increased to 365 acres.

The village of about 800 people put their skills to best use and built the forest on the wasteland. Now thier annual income has also incremented to about 50 million rupees through their agro-forestry initiative.

Residents of the village, which comes under the Ormanjhi administrative block, around 27 km from Ranchi, applied their knowledge and carefully planted each tree—eight feet from each other, with each tree having 1.5 feet radius trench around it.

Their income is allocated majorly for land development, the community and the people who work hard in the forests, the remaining is utilised on welfare schemes. The villagers have even started an open school where

training is imparted to people. The villagers have also purchased 70 cows and also incremented their income with dairy farming. They also sold grass that helped supplement their income.

Now, the villagers earn approximately seventy euros a day by selling milk. Their income through forestry was about Fifty Thousand euros last year.

After Hesatu, the villagers have now started developing small nurseries in barren patches around the area. Due to their efforts, even seasonal migration of people looking for jobs in cities have come to an end. When the villagers were able to generate profits through forestry in 2014, they convinced family members of those who migrated to stay back and work in their own land instead.

In the years 2015 and 2016, the rate of migration was lower. And in 2017, the village is completely migration-free.

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JHARkHAND VillAGERS CoNVERTED AN entire wasteland into a forest


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imalayan Orchard is an eco-friendly farm stay project in the Shimla hills of Himachal

Pradesh run by Michael and Devanshe. The farm is located in an area peculiarly rich in flora and fauna. The farm stretches from the orchard belt upto the river below, with protected deodar forests stretching above it to rocky mountain peaks beyond.

One can get to see more or less virgin protected open forests stretching to the glaciers in the far horizon.

In 2012 the apple orchards and many of the buildings had become neglected, dilapidated and fallen into serious disrepair. Over the last

five years the buildings have been sensitively restored and renovated. Now the farm-stay is offering five comfortable bedrooms for 10 to 12 guests.

The area has very little to offer by way of local tourist facilities and is very much ‘off the beaten track’. There is no television facilities and internet access is limited. However, there is a projector and a select DVD library.

The orchard grows more than 800 apples, pears, apricots, cherries, peaches and walnut trees. As they grow on numerous small terraces or fields on fairly steep slopes, mechanisation is minimal; most of the work is done by hand in the traditional way. Sprays, when

they are used, are kept to a bare minimum and applied to trees only. Pests are reduced by hand-clearing the vegetation around the trees, which is fed to the cows, who provide the fertiliser.

The land in and around, and between the fruit trees is used for organic traditional vegetable production—garlic (a cash crop), potatoes, peas, onions, beans, marrows, zucchini, maize, cucumbers, tomatoes, chilli peppers, capsicum, beetroot, and aubergine, as well as various herbs, seeds and salads such as coriander, amaranth, basil, oregano, rosemary, lavender, rocket and bergamot. Intercropping is commonly used.

eco-friendly farm stay in himalayan orchard

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There is a small dairy herd of four cows. From their milk, various cheeses (hard, soft, cottage cheese and seasoned), yoghurt/curd, butter, and buttermilk are also prepared. Some of the milk is sold to neighbours.

As a consequence of the organic vegetable production, the farm is rich in wild flowers, herbs, birds, butterflies, bees and insects.

The non-saleble apples and other fruits are used to make juice,

using handmade equipment. Guests are served juices for breakfast and are welcome to get involved in the fruit pressing process in the season (August– September).

The lot of home-grown products is used in cooking and offered to guests. The local Himachali cuisine, such as stuffed sidku, pancakes with poppy-seed chutney, ghee (a form of clarified butter) and honey, and so on are served to guests.

Freshly collected mushrooms with homemade pasta are also very popular. Jams, pickles and preserves are also produced.

Guests are welcome to take part in any aspect of farming and food production: milking and feeding the cows, mushroom collecting, collecting free-range eggs, jam, bread and cheese-making, etc.

The farm workers are paid daily wages when working in the orchard, buildings and other infrastructure. Their family accommodation is provided on- site, and the land is used by them to provide for a large proportion of their dietary needs, additionally, generating income in terms of off-farm sales of milk, garlic, etc. Major building work involves the employment of other family members and local workers.

Most of the buildings are largely traditional in design. The water (source of water is a mix of spring water and rainwater harvesting) is solar-heated. The aim is to ensure that visitors contribute positively to the local economy and environment, rather than create any negative impact. Taking care of the visitors will create more direct employment on the farm, as well as off-farm in terms of guides, both local and long distance for more intrepid trekkers.

http://himalayanorchard.com

forest watch :-

A group by the name, Himachal Forest Watch is formed by Himalayan orchard for various activities:

1. ‘Forest Clean Up’ events

These are organised monthly, publicised on Facebook and elsewhere, and increasingly involve members of the local community. large amounts of trash are collected. Guests often join in these events. More cooperation with local schools and the Forest Department is planned.

2. Reporting illegal tree-felling

Evidence of extensive illegal tree-felling was recorded in March 2017 and widely publicised to the media, Forest Department officials, the judiciary, and on Facebook, where it reached over 9,000 people and was shared 56 times. The police and Forest Department took action and the culprits were arrested, charged and sentenced to prison terms of 7 to 10 years. Further evidence of smaller scale tree-felling has since been reported to the authorities.

3. Tackling and reporting forest fires and illegal encroachment.

Along with the farm workers, two forest fires have been successfully extinguished locally and others reported to the authorities. The recorded evidence of a large fire that appeared to have been started deliberately to clear land for illegal encroachment by neighbouring orchardists, was reported to the Forest Department, who took appropriate action.

4. Paths and mapping.

The forest is crisscrossed by numerous paths and tracks, many of which are largely disused and overgrown. Himalayan orchard are opening up a number of these and creating a network of discretely signed paths and associated maps so that the guests can explore the forest. A local guidebook is in the making to include these maps and local, natural and social history. This process involves the recording of local/traditional knowledge including medicinal herbs and natural health practices.

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Q: How would you define Uttar Pradesh as a tourism destination?Uttar Pradesh is the fourth largest state in India, with an approximate area of 2,40,928 sq. km. It is also the most populous state in the country, with a population of 199.5 million (2011). Uttar Pradesh is one of the most favoured state for tourists in India, with a consistent ranking amongst the top states in terms of tourist arrivals. The contribution of tourism to employment generation, both direct and indirect, is of immense importance to the state.

Q: What is focus of Uttar Pradesh Tourism?The new tourism policy proposes aggressive initiatives, attractive incentives and requisite regulatory reforms, that will help ensure large scale investment support, through efficient management and private participation.

What is the Uttar Pradesh Pro-Poor Tourism Development Project?The Uttar Pradesh Pro-Poor Tourism Development Project (the Project), funded by the World Bank, aims to unlock the potential of the unique heritage of Uttar Pradesh through

pro-poor tourism development for inclusive growth and poverty reduction in asset-rich but particularly low-income areas of the state.

Q: How important is sustainable tourism/inclusive tourism to Uttar Pradesh?You can see the importance from our Mission in the Tourism policy.

To improve local entrepreneurship avenues, we have identified local tourism events and festivals. These tourism and events will also encourage artists, artisans and local entrepreneurs to display their

talent, wares. We a;lso aim to get more international focus on these events and city based mahotsavs.

Engagement of local communities

to ensure equitable distribution

of benefits and socio-economic

upliftment of the locals.

Heritage & Culture Tourism will also be promoted nationally and internationally. Several initatives to promote conservation, awareness and sensitivity is being worked up.

The department will form a special task force with experts/consultants to organize cultural events, food

mission

To drive a sense of inclusive tourism development in the local community of Uttar Pradesh, and make optimum use of the tourism experiences across vibrant cities, attractions, nature, wildlife, adventure, food, handicraft (including the promotion of ‘one District one Product Scheme’), heritage, religion and culture of Uttar Pradesh.

festivals and other art based festivals. The department will promote Vedic science practices within the tourist area as a theme.

The department, with the help of local players of agri market and tour operators, will develop special tour packages for promoting agri tourism.

To promote regional crafts

industry of various districts,

like Moradabad’s craft,

Bhadohi’s carpet, Agra’s inlay

work and Zardoji, Varanasi’s

silk, Gorakhpur’s terracotta,

Nijamabad & Khurja’s pottery

and Lucknow’s Chikan.

Villages known for special form of handicrafts, music, dance or art will be identified and introduced to the urban and foreign tourists to encourage their stay in the state. This will enable tourists to

experience special village cuisine, culture, art and lifestyle.

Q: Tell us a bit about the upcoming Kumb Mela in 2019 and your preparations

UNESCO recognized ‘Kumbh Mela’ as India’s ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’. Mahakumbh 2013 witnessed a total of 78.66 987 million tourist arrivals in the state. For the upcoming Allahabad Kumbh 2019, the department will strive to create more awareness on its spiritual significance and also promote it nationally and internationally. We also will strive to provide safety, best touristic facilities and infrastructure to ensure a good experience.

http://www.uptourism.gov.in/

minister’s talk: sustainable tourism growth in uttar pradesh

Smt. Rita Bahuguna JoshiTourism Minister

Uttar Pradesh

“Uttar Pradesh Tourism will be working towards creating a sustainable, pro-growth, and pro-poor ecosystem.”

ARTICLE

While in many cities, there is a substantial decrease in the bird populatoin, this village sets an example of how birds and humans can co-exist in complete harmony. Chirping birds of rare species several nests on each tree—Kokrebellur is a delightful sight.

Declining numbers of house sparrows and other native species have been a concern for every nature lover in recent times. According to the Bird Life International, the IUCN Red List states that currently 82 bird species in India fall into the globally threatened category.

Kokrebellur, a small village in Maddur taluk of Karnataka (Southern part of India), offers an unusual and mesmerizing sight as some of India’s rarest species of birds are found chirping in the backyards of these village homes.

The village is named after the ‘Painted Storks’ which are called ‘Kokkare’ in Kannada. Apart from Painted Storks, spot-billed Pelicans are also found here. Both of them are included in ‘near threatened category’ in the IUCN Red List of 2009. In addition to these, breeds like Little Cormorant, Black-Crowned Night Heron, Black Ibis, Grey Heron and the Indian Pond Heron are also spotted.

It is fascinating to see that these birds have nested in the village in very close proximity to the villagers. Every tree holds many nests, and in May, the sight is amazing as many newborn birds are learning to fly during this period, and the shrill voices of these young ones fill the environment with unusual energy.

farmers adopting rare birds despite danger of losing crops

How to reacH tHere?

The best season to visit Kokrebellur is January to May. It is well connected by both road and railway. It is around 80 kms from Bangalore on the Bangalore-Mysore highway.

Maddur is the nearest railway station. Nearest airport is the Bangalore Airport. You can also take your own transport from there.

ARTICLE

The villagers treat these birds as a part of their family and have also created a small area for wounded birds to rest. Birds are so friendly here that they even allow visitors to go very close to them.

The trust and bonding that these birds and villagers have developed is worth admiring. Kokrebellur is one of 21 breeding sites existing in India. The villagers have adopted these birds as a part of their heritage and consider them as signs of prosperity and good luck.

The birds help the villagers get phosphorus and potassium-rich manure obtained from the bird droppings. S.G. Neginhal, a senior forest official, had pioneered the efforts to proliferate the breed of Pelicans. In 1976, Neginhal explored possible solutions to expand the cause by launching a compensatory scheme to benefit the villagers. The birds and the villagers have bonded well since decades now.

As these birds nest in the village regularly, and sometimes

this can be a disadvantage for the crops, the Karnataka government compensates the villagers with a certain sum of money for every tree that is hosting a nest for these birds, as the land below the tree cannot be used for plantation of any other crop.

Additional income is also provided by the influx of tourists, who are encouraged to visit this ‘man-made bird sanctuary’.

Birds here usually nest in groups of 15-20 pairs per tree, and they continue to use these nests throughout the year. They arrive after the monsoon ends in September, hatch their eggs and migrate back in May.

The uniqueness of this place is that despite some loss of crops that these villagers face due to the birds, they have happily adopted the birds and do everything possible to make them feel at home. That is why, gradually, this place has become a hub of rare migratory birds.

The spot-billed pelicans are protected by law in India

and also in several other countries. The unique thing about Kokrebellur is that it is not a reserved bird sanctuary but a village where these birds freely live and co-exist with the villagers in harmony.

The efforts to conserve these birds have been fruitful and considered as ‘a role model’ to replicate in other areas. Due to a wide variety of rare birds, this place attracts a lot of tourists and bird watchers every year.

The government has also established and provided grants to the Village Forest Committee (VFC) to protect the birds by nurturing and enhancing the trees on which they nest.

The village not only offers a good bird watching experience but also provides a completely new take on human–birds relationship.

The villagers have set an exceptional example of how two life forms can happily co-exist in a beautiful way.


ARTICLE

reener Pastures is a small sustainable travel company based in Northeast India which

promotes responsible tours and adventures to exotic places, with a prime focus on uplifting local communities and safeguarding the environment.

Greener Pastures provide authentic and immersive experiences across the vast and exotic frontiers of Northeastern India which are eco-friendly, benefit the communities and are tailored to ensure that travelers take back lifelong memories. It provides the hospitality of a friend, the knowledge of a local, the service of passionate experts and an escape to an unexplored paradise. The aim is to help the indigenous tribal people and

conserve the natural beauty of the region.

This is a very important aspect of any responsible tourism initiative. Especially in a place like Northeast India where more than 200 tribes and many religions coexist, each with their own intricate and valuable cultural and historical heritage. If local people know that a part of the reason travelers visit their area is because of the historical sites, the songs, the festivals, and their way of life, then they are more likely to want to preserve and protect these aspects of their society, rather than change them with modern ways or migrate into urban culture.

In Northeast India, the recent two decades have witnessed the loss of indigenous culture and migration of local population

to urban areas. This has been mainly due to the lack of income opportunities in the villages. But tourism is slowly changing this. The travelers are helping in the preservation of the many cultures of the region. Local people are today more conscious and proud of their heritage, and have begun to take steps to ensure the preservation and protection of this culture and heritage.

As part of their commitment to sustainable tourism, Greener Pastures help the guests to understand the local customs and cultures in a progressive manner. They promote electricity and water conservation and encourage knowledge exchange between the guests and hosts, thus leaving a positive footprint on the places visited by the guests.

environment conservation by greener pastures

GAs a tour operator based

in one of the world’s most important biodiversity area, it is the responsibility and passion of Greener Pastures to play a important part in the protection and preservation of the natural richness of Northeast India. When a guest visits an area for the rivers, wildlife, wild places, landscapes, flora or fauna, the local communities who reside within these areas are encouraged to preserve and protect the natural beauty. Promoting small scale but exquisite wildlife tourism in the region is a key way of spearheading conservation initiatives. By way of tourism, they also actively support wildlife departments of the region and help in generating sustainable income to the communities who

reside in these areas. This has resulted in a positive impact throughout the region. The biodiversity of the region is safer today than a decade back.

The wildlife departments have been recruiting more rangers and the villages have been witnessing sustainable development and have learnt to live alongside wildlife.

Guides interact with local communities and educate them about the importance of conservation and the value of wildlife.

Greener Pastures has also been using social media to promote the region as an exclusive wildlife destination and at the same time, raise a voice against environment crimes in the region such as logging and poaching. They also

plan to open community-based wildlife tourism projects where the communities will actively engage and be educated in conservation projects.

As per the sustainable tourism objectives, Greener Pastures decided to play an active part in supporting local communities. They generously contribute from their annual profit and encourage their staff, guests, families and local businesses to donate. Greener Pastures also provides their guests an option to choose the charity they would like their tours to contribute to. Since Northeast India is prone to floods and few other natural calamities, whenever such an event occurs they try their best to help the needy.

http://thegreenerpastures.com/

choosing local, making lives better :-

Greener Pastures actively support local services providers over large business based services. This is done by different ways:

1) Encouraging local unemployed youths to become freelance tour guides, provides them training and using their services.

2) Using the services of locally run accommodations for the tours, and at the same time, encourage others to join in. The services of homestays, local family owned guesthouses, community guesthouses and small family run hotels are used. This is a major way for contributing to the sustainability objectives and at the same time helping travelers have a genuine local experience.

3) Using the services of local car-hire providers and supporting others in opening up their own small agency.

4) Greener Pastures promotes the use and sell of authentic crafts made from local resources which provide income to local communities. They encourage local women to participate in the production of arts and crafts. They also gives the guests an opportunity to help by encouraging them to purchase.

20 w w w . t r a v e l r e s p o n s i b l y . i n f o

amil Nadu is a southern state of India which has a very rich cultural heritage, amazing

beaches and hills, ancient history and is full of vibrant colors. Known to be one of the oldest civilisations in the world, majority of the people of Tamil Nadu belong to the Dravidian culture, one of the earliest natives of India.

Tamil Nadu is often visited for its beautiful monuments that depict skills and excellence of the artisans of former times. One fine characteristic of ancient architecture here is that the temples have towering gopurams and are adorned with rock-cut inscriptions. Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram, Tirunelveli and Madurai are gemlike when it comes to heritage and history. Madurai’s Meenakshi Temple is an iconic structure, with neat detailing in its carving and the right scheme of color.

Mahabalipuram’s Shore Temples, especially its rathas (chariots) have a magnetic pull that attracts hundreds of pilgrims. Also, finest specimens of Dravidian architecture, the temples built by the erstwhile Chola rulers hold

a high esteem in Tamil Nadu’s heritage and history.

The state has been celebrated for its excellent stone carvings since the starting of the ancient history of India. The remnants of stone carvings, granite figures and similar such statues that were found at the time of excavation from the archeological site, all earn a special remark. Today Chingleput and Mamallapuram are the two places where granite carvings can be seen.

Tanjore paintings of Tamil Nadu are a stamp of the rich cultural heritage of India. Bharatnatyam is the official dance form of Tamil Nadu, recognized all over India and the world. It’s a complicated dance form with subtle moves of body parts and expressions.

Some of the heritage buildings like Chettinad Mansions are

unutilised. The unique architecture, expansive courtyards, intricate woodwork, peaceful ambience and delicious cuisine are all great tourist attractions. Some of the Chettinad Mansions are now converted into heritage hotels.

Tourists, particularly foreigners, have a special liking for Tamil Nadu because of its art, culture, architecture, traditional crafts, cuisine etc. The festivals, particularly, the music and dance festivals during December to February attract a large number of foreign tourists. Tamil Nadu’s traditional food, particularly in Chettinad, Madurai, Tirunelveli and Kongu regions provide a varied taste.

The magnificent temples, the lofty hills of the Nilgiri ranges, the azure waters of the sea, the lovely golden beaches are all there for you to explore in your tour to Tamil Nadu. In addition, there are as many as 5 national parks and 17 wildlife sanctuaries where you can witness amazing wildlife.

The culture of Tamil Nadu is best in the heritage of India. Unique in its own way, it represents an artistic expression of the fabulous Tamil culture.

rich cultural heritage of tamil nadu

T

• TamilNaduistheculturalcapital of India.

• FiveUNESCOdeclaredworld heritage sites.

• Wellconnectedroadsand4 international airports.

• Chennaiisoneofthebestmusic centres in India.


ARTICLE

ktaal, a crafts village located near Raigarh (state of Chhattisgarh) is a small and very basic

village. What makes it special is the fact it is home to many national and state level award-winning artisans. It’s virtually an artisan market, where each family specialises in the craft that has been passed down from generations. Most of the villagers in Ektaal belong to Jhara tribe, which is a sub-tribe of Gonds.

The village, its earthiness, the welcoming smiles, the ease with which they mention tours to Europe and other art fairs, even as the women stand by

shyly, is a story in itself. As one takes in their mud-walled huts, it’s difficult to absorb the fact that Ektaal is home to over 45 national and state awardees. There’s Ram Lal Jhara, who received a national award in 1988 and was honoured for his depiction of the Shravan Kumar episode in the Ramayana. Meanwhile, 70-year-old Gobind Ram Jhara learnt the craft at the age of 10, received the national award in 1988, the

Shikhar Samman from Madhya Pradesh government in 1984 and has toured Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore to popularise the Dokra tradition.

Mrs. Budhiarin Devi’s latest creation won her the state level award. These expert artisans travel around the country showcasing their art. From time to time they get invited to conduct workshops on their craft in other states. Their craft has in a way become their vehicle to see the world, while providing the world a window into their own culture.

The whole village is engaged in making handmade metal craft

E

ektaal—dhokra art crafts village of chhattisgarh

popularly known as Dhokra art. They continue to use the age-old technique of Lost Wax method that was used even during the times of Indus Valley Civilization. Designs are made on a clay tablet with threads of bee wax. Wax strands are also made using a small wooden machine using the simple pressing method. Another layer of clay is added to mold after the wax settles. And then the molten metal is put between the two clay layers. The wax burns out and the metal settles in its place. When the clay mold is broken the shining metal acquires the desired shape.

The women are engaged in laying the design part on clay tablets. While men take care of the rest of the activities like making wax stands, putting the clay molds on fire, breaking it, arranging the finished product. Finally, making an effort to sell it.

Most of the designs revolve around tribal deities and folk characters and their stories. They are slowly trying to come up with designs on usable items like cutlery etc.

Adapting the lost wax technique to create metal art, they make anything from traditional lamps to decorative hooks and animal curios in a day to complex figurines that takes months to finish.

The icons capture scenes of every day life as craftsmen draw inspiration from the immediate natural environment—trees, birds, horses, elephants, deer, spring, rituals and village life. No matter what the art form, each item is intricately handcrafted making it an exquisite piece of art.

Despite their humble roots, the craftsmen have traveled to Paris, Rome and London to participate in fairs and exhibitions. It is quite a remarkable achievement how a remote, obscure village has left a

stamp on the world map, literally in molten metal.

Getting there: Located in Pussore Tehsil of Raigarh District in Chhattisgarh, Ektal is 18 km from the capital. It is a 30 min drive along the Kelo river to the craft village. With many hotels in the Raigarh city, it is the ideal base to cover Ektal, which has no facilities.

ARTICLE

Community-Based tourism: the

mountain shepherds initiative

A community-owned and operated ecotourism company

that grew out of the famous Nanda Devi Campaign for cultural

survival and sustainable livelihoods.

Their guides hail from communities

all over the upper reaches of the

Himalayas...

www.mountainshepherds.com

State: Uttarakhand

Learn anCient art of weaving

and meet the artisans...

Avani works with over 1,100 artisans in 101 villages of two districts. What starts as a training process becomes the way of life for the people who end up being closely associated with Avani.

www.avani-kumaon.org

State: Uttarakhand

heritage viLLage of pragpur

Pragpur well deserves its heritage village tag. With its winding cobbled lane, mud-plastered walls and slate-roofed houses, this village offers what most destinations can only dream.

State: Himachal Pradesh

amaZing famiLy who saved hundreds of wiLd animaLs

Dr. Prakash Amte and his wife Dr. Mandakini Amte have an unusual way of living. They have set up a wild animal asylum in their courtyard, spent decades changing the lives of the local community in Hemalkasa, protecting tribals, local fauna..,

www.anandwan.in/amte-animal-ark/

state: maharashtra

Jaipur virasat foundation

The Jaipur Virasat Foundation (JVF) works with and for traditional artists in Rajasthan. As traditional forms of patronage disappear, and modern forms of entertainment supersede traditional ones, JVF seeks to provide livelihood opportunities for struggling artists.

www.jaipurvirasatfoundation.org

state: rajasthan

CuLture aangan: homestays, ruraL tourism and more...Expereince traditional Indian culture, can experience rural India, off the beaten track but with homely comforts. Stay in remote villages, experience the local hospitality, encourge langushing art and culture.www.cultureaangan.comstates: rajasthan, maharashtra

rawLa JoJawar - responsiBLe tourism

Rawla Jojawar is created after lovingly renovating the old fort which has always been home to a stunningly beautiful boutique hotel. All the staff are locals and their employment has helped them not to relocate.state: rajasthan

Community aCtion heLped revive 200 aCres of deforested Land!

From establishing a seed bank, to building and maintaing ponds, the many steps that helped revive the deforested Orans in Rajasthan.Afforestation of over 200 thousand trees in the area has benefitted rural women the most.state: alwar district, rajasthan

Community tourism in the rann of kutCh

Kuldip Gadhvi takes you into the remotest villages with a song in his lips. Grab the opportunity to catch up any herder on the way who invites you to visit his cattle camp or a lift to some random villagers in the middle of the road and end up making friends and sharing cup of tea/lunch...www.kutchadventuresindia.com

state: gujarat

Conservation of the environment in Leh and Ladakh

Ladakh Ecological Development Group-LEDeG has consistently worked towards serving the underprivileged people and addresses the environmental and cultural issues.

www.ledeg.org

State: Jammu & Kashmir

this young team is enaBLing tourists to turn into Change makers in the himaLayasAvail an opportunity to meet the villagers and work for community good with these young group of travel enthusiasts...www.devilonwheels.comState: Himachal Pradesh

nurturing anCient traditionsVillage Ways nurtures the traditions and indigenous knowledge that has helped communities live in harmony with nature over generations. Guides are trained to value this knowledge.www.villageways.com State: Uttarakhand

north india

west india

SUSTAINABLE ToUrS To INdIA northeast india

a triBaL hamLet Converted into an eCo-tourism destination

In Odisha’s scenic Koraput Valley, a quiet transformation is underway. Yugabrata Kar and his community-centric ecotourism initiative, Desia, are bringing the benefits of sustainable livelihoods to the local tribes living in the valley.www.desiakoraput.comstate: odisha

Conserving turtLes and more

Over the years, APOWA (Action for Protection of Wild Animals) has been working for the conservation of endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles and their habitat along the Odisha coast. With sustained campaign and commitment, combined strongly,... www.apowa.org

state: odisha

the CLeanest viLLage in asia

Mawlynnong claims to be the Cleanest Village in Asia. The road leading up to it has some of the most panoramic and breathtaking views in the country.The residents of this village have learnt to live at harmony with Mother Nature.

state: meghalaya

Jharkhand viLLage waLLs

depiCting triBaL Life By

madhuBani muraLs

The walls of houses in Jharkhand’s

(East India) Chandidih village are proud galleries displaying Madhubani masterpieces woven

with everyday stories, thanks to

Udbhav, a community art project.

https://www.facebook.com/udbhavproject/

state: Jharkhand

the man who went on to save an entire Bird sanCtuary

Chilika today is the finest bird sanctuary in India, and among the richest ecosystems in the world. This unique, half-saltwater, half-freshwater lake in Odisha is 70 km in length and 30 km in breadth. The highlight of the project being training of poachers to guides.www.wildorissa.org state: odisha

south india

the green path eCo resort

Organic farming, taking people back to the roots, these are some of the visions achieved by Mr Jayaram. After successfully converting what used to be barren land in 1998 into an organic farm of great biodiversity, the Green Path (a complete Eco boutique hotel) and a Eco Stay in Coorg, Mr Jayaram now runs Organic State, a complete store of organic products and restaurants. www.thegreenpath.in

state: karnataka

sustainaBLe tourism in a tea estate BungaLow saved indigenous triBes from starvation

Set up with the purpose of supporting the adivasis, Priyadarshini Tea Eastate was never about profits. The tribal people found a safe haven as workers of the tea plantation.state: wayanad district, kerala

karuna farm at kodaikanaLLocated on a hilltop overlooking Kodaikanal Valley (Tamil Nadu, South India), Karuna Farm harmonises with nature taking care of body, mind and spirit without compromising on basic amenities and comfort.www.karunafarm.instate: tamil nadu

east india

responsiBLe tourism in assam

Located on the banks of the Brahmaputra, 35 kms north of Guwahati, Sualkuchi is a weaving village that produces some of the best silk in the state. This sleepy little village exudes a charm like no other. Almost every house has an adjacent shed that houses the traditional bamboo looms, the gentle click-clacking of which can be heard from the streets. state: assam

tourism to enCourage

Conservation of endangered

turtLes

Turtles are an endangered species, and protecting the eggs

become an important necessity.

After several years of struggle and

taking requisite permissions from

the forest department, Pradeep

started the Sea Turtle Protection

Force (STPF).

www.vspca.org

state: vishakapatnam, andhra pradesh

The above list is indicative and not exhaustive. Please contact us for more information.

kaBani Community tourism & serviCe

The Kabani Community Tourism & Service is a non-profit community association that has been promoting a model that benefits local communities and attempting to reduce negative impact. They promote community tourism initiatives to create additional incomes for famers.www.kabanitour.com

state: kerala

a viLLage homestay

Dewalokam is an organic, self-reliant farm in the Idukki district, which also offers organic interactions with the local community. The staff belong to the village, which benefits from the enterprise... www.dewalokam.in

state: kerala


est Bengal, stretching from the Himalayas to the seas, offers a remarkable range

of destinations and experiences within a single state. It is a land of contrasts —in climate, vegetation, scenery and landscape.

It has always been a traveller’s delight as there are fantastic trips set around the misty and romantic hill stations of Kalimpong and Mirik, diverse wildlife and verdant tea gardens of the Dooars, historical monuments and temples of Murshidabad and Bishnupur, wide and splendid beaches of Digha and Mandarmoni and the lush forested islands and meandering rivers of Sunderbans—destinations that are great revelations.

The Government of West Bengal is aiming at making tourism more sustainable by offering an authentic travel experience that is conscious of conservation

values and reflects community conscience.

In order to promote rural tourism, ecotourism and cultural tourism, the Government of West Bengal has created a Homestay policy to promote the rich culture and ethnic diversity of the state through community based tourism, ensuring equitable sharing of benefits to the local communities. As an implementation of this policy, the Village Eco Tourism project has developed 12 Blue Homestays in the Dooars area, including Alipurduar, essentially for tribal families for augmentation of alternative livelihood.

Cultural Tourism is helping Bengal go global. Several destination-specific cultural events like the Bishnupur Music Festival are being created to familiarise tourists with local traditional music and culture, promote local crafts and increase visibility of local

artisans. In order to promote local craftsmanship, a Rural Craft Hub has been established in Panchmura where tourists can see the local terracotta artisans at work, participate in terracotta workshops and learn the history of the craft and associated rituals.

The biggest delta of the world—Sunderbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its mangrove forests showcase highest mangrove

tourism initiatives

Blue Homestays in the Dooars area to promote rural tourism.

Bishnupur Music Festival to promote cultural tourism.

Rural Craft Hub n Panchmura to promote local crafts.

Sunderbans Tiger Reserve to promote wildlife tourism.

Tea gardens in Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling to promote tea tourism.

W

experience the sustainable tourism of west bengal

diversity and are the only mangrove tiger land of the planet. The Sunderbans Tiger Reserve Management and the WWF India West Bengal State Office has taken special steps to find out ways and means for sustainable development of several villages with the help of local dynamic young men. The positive effects of ecotourism have earned Sundarban the status of Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site and attract a good

number of domestic and foreign tourists.

West Bengal is a treasure chest of indigenous handicrafts. Visiting the looms in Bankura where the saris are created is a treat and helps tourists delve deep into the roots of world famous Baluchari Saris. This experience based trip

to the weavers colony is giving that exposure to the tourists and is helping the weavers to reap benefits from the increasing footfall and global exposure.

The tea gardens in Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling is promoting tea tourism. Staying in a heritage bungalow, at a home-stay feeling in a tea-village is a really pleasant experience. Trekking in the natural beauty of a lush tea garden, undertaking a tea-testing session, visiting a modern tea factory and even trying one’s hand at plucking tea leaves, an experience one cannot miss.

For more information: http://www.wbtourism.gov.in/

bhutan, Laos, nepaL and sri Lanka

Dahachok homestay in nepal Located at 10 kms away from Kathmandu, in a pollution free, green and peaceful environment, the Dahachok Homestay serves you the best accommodation and opportunity to widen your local cultural awareness. Dahachok Homestay is sufficient for you to know and deepen you understanding about Nepalese culture, tradition, lifestyle and livelihood.

http://www.dahachok.com/

sujatha’s homestay in sri lankaThe homestay is nestled in a small quiet suburb of Kandy, Sri Lanka, just a 10 minutes drive away from the Kandy city center. Interspersed by chirping of birds and whispers of trees this is an ideal place to relax after a visit to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Stay here with local family and take a glimpse of everyday Srilankan life too.

http://www.kandy-homestay.com/

rangshikhar naktshang house in Bhutan This beautiful house is on a hilltop towering over Rangshikhar village. Hiking up to the village takes approximately 4 hours from Trashigang town. Enjoy the serene beauty of the wild East! Spend a relaxed evening with fresh organic food and fruits. From here you can hike up to Rangshikhar Goenpa and Samcholing Goenpa.

http://www.bhutanhomestay.com/

Ban nam ha homestay—khmu Village in laosExperience the Khmu culture and tradition, taste local meals, learn and practice how to husking rice, making bamboo basket and toys such as: birds, frogs or cup. The half day trek through the forest and mountain to learn about nature, wild life, technique for hunting animals and experience local food and culture.

http://www.laos-cbt.org/

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For more interesting stories please scan the QR code below.

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Over a thousand species are facing extinction, many art forms/folklore are languishing, age old practices and traditions that need preservation and encouragement are now being looked at as “old fashion”. To keep sustenance, preservation and conservation, a lot of efforts are required. Most of these efforts go unnoticed, they don’t get the deserved attention or financial support. And many such projects close down over a period of time.

Travel Responsibly & Sustainably is a consortium that maps such projects from developing nations, creates integrated circuits, promotes them using various avenues of sales and marketing. We hope that with tourists’ visits to such projects, will enable them to a better understanding of such projects and create more avenues for revenue generation for those working at the grass root level.

We also are sensitizing potential travelers, specially, well placed business executives to reach out to such projects by way of roadshows and personalized mails.

We also look forward to your suggestions and comments/feedback. We invite your articles, expert opinions. We have a section specially reserved for Industry Leaders. Our email address is [email protected]

Some of the stories that have been encapsulated earlier, are available in our website, www.travelresponsibly.info

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Documents

A SuStAinAble trAvel Guide...Vol 2, Issue 6 Responsibly & Sustainably tm ExpEriEncE Ladakh BEyond LEh city in Ladakhi ViLLagE homEs EktaaL—dhokra art crafts ViLLagE of chhattisgarh