Welcome to the land of diversity, India – a country that boasts a rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled hospitality. For the environmentally conscious traveller, India offers a myriad of eco-friendly travel destinations that not only promote sustainable tourism but also showcase the country’s natural beauty. From the misty hills of the Western Ghats to the serene backwaters of Kerala, India has something to offer every nature lover.
Join us on a journey to explore some of the must-not-miss eco-friendly travel destinations in India and experience the true essence of sustainable tourism.
SIKKIM
Sikkim is a northeastern state of India that is known for its pristine natural beauty, including towering mountains, lush green forests, and crystal-clear lakes. It is also one of the most eco-friendly states in the country, with a strong focus on sustainable tourism and conservation.
Sikkim has set an example for the rest of the country in terms of its eco-friendly initiatives, with a ban on single-use plastics and a focus on organic farming. The state has also implemented policies that encourage responsible tourism, such as limiting the number of tourists allowed in certain areas to prevent overcrowding.
One of the most popular eco-tourism destinations in Sikkim is the Khangchendzonga National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park is home to the majestic Khangchendzonga mountain, as well as a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered snow leopard.
Sikkim also has a number of eco-friendly accommodations, such as the Dzongu Homestays, where visitors can stay with local families and experience the traditional way of life while supporting the local economy.
Sikkim’s commitment to eco-friendliness and sustainability makes it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the beauty of nature while minimising its impact on the environment.
LADAKH
Ladakh is a region in the northernmost part of India, situated in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is known for its unique landscape of towering mountain ranges, deep valleys, and vast stretches of high-altitude desert. In recent years, Ladakh has also emerged as a popular eco-tourism destination due to its strong focus on sustainable tourism practices.
Ladakh is home to a number of eco-friendly initiatives, including the promotion of solar energy and the use of mud-brick architecture to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. The region also has a strong emphasis on responsible tourism, with efforts to lower the impact of visitors on the fragile environment.
One of the most popular eco-tourism destinations in Ladakh is the Hemis National Park, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard. Visitors can take guided tours of the park, which are designed to have minimal impact on the environment.
Ladakh also has a number of eco-friendly accommodations, such as the Shakti Village Houses, which are traditional Ladakhi homes that have been converted into guesthouses. These accommodations offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience local culture and support the local economy.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of islands located in the Bay of Bengal, off the east coast of India. The islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and crystal-clear waters. In recent years, the islands have also become popular among eco-tourists due to their focus on sustainable tourism practices.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have implemented a number of eco-friendly initiatives, such as the ban on plastic bags, bottles, and other single-use plastics. The islands also have a strong focus on responsible tourism, with efforts to lessen the impact of visitors on the fragile environment.
One of the most popular eco-tourism activities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is snorkelling and scuba diving. Visitors can explore the vibrant coral reefs and underwater ecosystems, which are protected by the government to prevent damage from human activities.
The islands also have a number of eco-friendly accommodations, such as the Barefoot at Havelock, which is an eco-resort that uses sustainable materials and practices to minimise its impact on the environment.
COORG
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a district in the state of Karnataka, located in the southwestern part of India. Known as the “Scotland of India,” Coorg is known for its picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, coffee plantations, and misty forests. In recent years, Coorg has also emerged as an eco-tourism destination due to its focus on sustainable tourism practices.
Coorg has implemented a number of eco-friendly initiatives, such as the promotion of organic farming and the use of renewable energy sources. The region also places a strong emphasis on responsible tourism, with efforts to reduce the impact of visitors on the environment.
One of the most popular eco-tourism activities in Coorg is trekking, with visitors able to explore the region’s natural beauty on foot. There are a number of hiking trails in the area, including the famous Tadiandamol trek, which takes visitors to the highest peak in Coorg.
Coorg also has a number of eco-friendly accommodations, such as the Coorg Wilderness Resort, which is a sustainable resort that uses renewable energy and recycled materials.
MAWLYNNONG
Mawlynnong is a small village located in the northeastern state of Meghalaya, India. Known as the “cleanest village in Asia,” Mawlynnong is known for its pristine natural beauty, including lush forests, waterfalls, and stunning views of the surrounding hills. In recent years, Mawlynnong has also become a popular eco-tourism destination due to its strong focus on sustainable tourism practices.
Mawlynnong has implemented a number of eco-friendly initiatives, such as the ban on single-use plastics, the promotion of organic farming, and the use of renewable energy sources. The village also has a strong emphasis on responsible tourism, with efforts to reduce the impact of visitors on the environment.
One of the most popular eco-tourism activities in Mawlynnong is exploring the living root bridges. These bridges are made by manipulating the roots of the Ficus elastica tree, which are then interwoven to create a natural bridge. Visitors can also take guided tours of the village to learn about the local culture and way of life.
Mawlynnong also has a number of eco-friendly accommodations, such as the Serene Resort, which is a sustainable resort that uses renewable energy and recycled materials.
KODAIKANAL
Kodaikanal is a hill station located in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its picturesque landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and serene lakes. Recently, Kodaikanal has also emerged as an eco-tourism destination due to its focus on sustainable tourism practices.
Kodaikanal has implemented a number of eco-friendly initiatives, such as the promotion of organic farming and the use of renewable energy sources. The region also places a strong emphasis on responsible tourism, with efforts to minimize the impact of visitors on the environment.
One of the most popular eco-tourism activities in Kodaikanal is exploring the natural beauty of the region. Visitors can hike through the forests, visit the many waterfalls in the area, or take a boat ride on Kodaikanal Lake. There are also several eco-friendly tourist spots in the area, such as the Green Valley Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Kodaikanal also has a number of eco-friendly accommodations, such as the Elephant Valley Eco Farm, which is a sustainable resort that uses renewable energy and practices organic farming.
KHONOMA
Khonoma is a village located in the state of Nagaland in northeast India. It is situated about 20 kilometres from the city of Kohima, the capital of Nagaland. Khonoma is known for its rich history, culture, and tradition, and it is also famous for its community-based conservation efforts.
The village of Khonoma is inhabited by the Angami Naga tribe, who are known for their rich cultural heritage and strong sense of community. Lush green hills surround the village and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is also home to several important historical sites, including a stone fortress built in the 19th century to defend against British colonial forces.
In recent years, Khonoma has gained international recognition for its community-based conservation efforts. The village has implemented a number of initiatives to protect its environment and promote sustainable livelihoods, including a ban on hunting and logging in the surrounding forests. As a result, Khonoma has become a model for community-based conservation efforts in India and around the world.
MATHERAN
Matheran is a small hill station located in the Raigad district of the state of Maharashtra in India. It is situated about 90 kilometres from Mumbai, the capital city of Maharashtra. Matheran is known for its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and scenic views.
What sets Matheran apart from other hill stations is that it is an eco-sensitive zone, and vehicles are not allowed in the town. This means that the only way to get around Matheran is on foot, horseback, or by toy train. The toy train is a popular attraction and takes visitors on a scenic ride through the forested hills.
Matheran is also known for its 38 viewpoints, which offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Some of the most popular viewpoints include Echo Point, One Tree Hill Point, and Louisa Point. The town is also home to several hiking trails, including the popular Garbett Plateau trek.
In addition to its natural beauty, Matheran has a rich history and is home to several colonial-era bungalows and buildings. One of the most popular attractions is Charlotte Lake, which was built in 1956 and is a popular spot for picnics and boating.
THENMALA
Thenmala is a small village located in the Kollam district of the state of Kerala in southern India. It is situated at the foothills of the Western Ghats and is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and eco-tourism activities.
The name “Thenmala” literally means “honey hills” in the local language, and the village is known for its production of high-quality honey. In addition to honey, Thenmala is also known for its production of bamboo, which is used to make a variety of products, including furniture, handicrafts, and even houses.
One of the main attractions of Thenmala is the Thenmala Ecotourism Project, which was established in 2000. The project aims to promote sustainable tourism in the region while preserving its natural beauty and biodiversity. Visitors to the ecotourism project can enjoy a range of activities, including trekking, boating, rock climbing, and nature walks.
Another popular attraction in Thenmala is the Palaruvi Waterfalls, which are located about 20 kilometres from the village. The waterfalls are known for their scenic beauty and are a popular spot for picnics and swimming.
MUNSIYARI
Munsiyari is a small hill station located in the Pithoragarh district of the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. It is situated at an altitude of about 2,298 meters above sea level and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and alpine meadows. Munsiyari is known for its natural beauty, trekking trails, and panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
One of the most popular activities in Munsiyari is trekking. The village is a starting point for several trekking trails that lead to nearby glaciers, mountain peaks, and valleys. Some of the popular treks include the Milam Glacier Trek, the Ralam Glacier Trek, and the Namik Glacier Trek.
Munsiyari is also known for its scenic beauty and offers stunning views of the Himalayan range. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Panchachuli Peaks, which are a group of five snow-capped mountain peaks that are visible from Munsiyari.
Another popular attraction in Munsiyari is the Maheshwari Kund, which is a natural hot water spring located about 3 kilometres from the village. The hot water is believed to have medicinal properties and is a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
GOKARNA
Gokarna is a small town located on the western coast of India in the Uttara Kannada district of the state of Karnataka. It is situated about 484 kilometres from Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. Gokarna is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and peaceful atmosphere.
Gokarna is a popular pilgrimage centre for Hindus, and it is believed that Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow (go-karna in Sanskrit) at this place. The town is home to several ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, including the Mahabaleshwara temple, which is one of the major attractions in Gokarna. The temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture and has intricate carvings and sculptures.
Gokarna is also known for its pristine beaches, which are less crowded than those in nearby Goa. Some of the popular beaches in Gokarna include Kudle Beach, Om Beach, and Half Moon Beach. These beaches offer stunning views of the Arabian Sea and are a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
In addition to its beaches and temples, Gokarna is also known for its scenic beauty and trekking trails. Visitors can trek through the forests and hills surrounding Gokarna to reach secluded beaches and waterfalls.
ALLEPPEY
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a city located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea and is known for its beautiful backwaters, lagoons, canals, and beaches. Alleppey is often referred to as the “Venice of the East” due to its network of canals that connect the backwaters and the sea.
One of the main attractions of Alleppey is its backwaters. The backwaters of Alleppey are a network of lagoons, lakes, and canals that are interconnected and offer a unique ecosystem. Visitors can take a houseboat ride through the backwaters to explore the region and experience the local way of life. Houseboats in Alleppey are equipped with all modern amenities and offer a comfortable stay while cruising through the backwaters.
Alleppey is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach, and Andhakaranazhi Beach. These beaches offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life and are a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
Another popular attraction in Alleppey is the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, which is held on the second Saturday of August every year. The boat race is a traditional event in which teams of rowers compete in long canoes known as “snake boats.” The event attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world and is a highlight of the cultural calendar in Kerala.
SPITI VALLEY
Spiti Valley is a remote and beautiful valley located in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated at an altitude of about 3,800 meters above sea level and is surrounded by high mountain ranges. Spiti Valley is known for its stark and rugged landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich Tibetan culture.
One of the main attractions of Spiti Valley is its beautiful landscape. The valley is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and high-altitude deserts. Visitors can enjoy trekking and hiking in the valley to explore its unique topography and scenic beauty.
Spiti Valley is also home to several ancient monasteries, such as the Ki Monastery, Tabo Monastery, and Dhankar Monastery. These monasteries are known for their beautiful architecture, colourful wall paintings, and ancient scriptures.
The people of Spiti Valley are predominantly of Tibetan origin and follow Tibetan Buddhism. Visitors can experience the unique Tibetan culture and traditions by visiting the local villages and interacting with the locals. The village of Langza is known for its fossils and is a popular destination for tourists.
Spiti Valley is also known for its unique wildlife, such as the snow leopard, Himalayan ibex, and Tibetan wolf. Visitors can take a wildlife safari in the valley to spot these rare animals in their natural habitat.
SUNDARBANS
The Sundarbans are a vast mangrove forest located in the delta of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers in the eastern Indian state of West Bengal and the southwestern region of Bangladesh. It is one of the largest mangrove forests in the world and is known for its unique biodiversity and rich ecological heritage.
The Sundarbans are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, the saltwater crocodile, and a wide variety of bird species. Visitors can take a boat tour through the dense mangrove forests to observe the wildlife and experience the natural beauty of the region. The forest is also home to several species of deer, wild boar, and monkeys.
The Sundarbans are also famous for their unique ecology, which is characterised by the interaction between saltwater and freshwater. The region is crisscrossed by a network of small waterways that support a wide variety of marine and freshwater species. The Sundarbans are also an important breeding ground for several species of fish, shrimp, and crabs.
One of the main attractions in the Sundarbans is the traditional honey collection by the local honey collectors, who risk their lives to collect honey from the beehives built on high tree branches. Visitors can witness this ancient practice and sample some of the delicious honey.
MARARIKULAM
Mararikulam is a picturesque fishing village located in the Alappuzha district of the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, serene backwaters, and traditional way of life.
The main attraction in Mararikulam is its beautiful beach, which is known for its golden sands, clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere. The beach offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life and is a great place to relax, swim, or enjoy a walk along the shore.
Mararikulam is also known for its backwaters, which are a network of lagoons, lakes, and canals that are interconnected and offer a unique ecosystem. Visitors can take a boat ride through the backwaters to explore the region and experience the local way of life.
The village is also famous for its coir industry, which produces ropes, mats, and other products from coconut fibre. Visitors can learn about the process of making coir and even try their hand at making some of the products.
Another popular attraction in Mararikulam is St. Andrew’s Church, which is a 150-year-old Roman Catholic church built in Gothic style. The church is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and is a popular destination for tourists.
AGUMBE
Agumbe is a small village located in the Shimoga district of the southern Indian state of Karnataka. It is situated in the Western Ghats, a mountain range known for its biodiversity, and is surrounded by dense forests, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Agumbe is known as the ‘Cherrapunji of the South’ due to its high rainfall and is considered one of the wettest places in India. The village is also known for its beautiful sunset view, which can be seen from a viewpoint called Sunset Point.
One of the main attractions in Agumbe is the Kudremukh National Park, which is home to several species of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and wild dogs. Visitors can go on a wildlife safari through the park to spot these animals in their natural habitat. The park is also home to several waterfalls, including the spectacular Jog Falls.
Agumbe is also known for its biodiversity and is home to several species of rare and endemic plants and animals. The village is also a popular destination for bird watchers and is home to several species of birds, including the Malabar trogon and the great Indian hornbill.
Agumbe is also known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life. Visitors can experience the local traditions and customs by interacting with the locals and visiting the nearby villages.
DARINGBADI
Daringbadi is a hill station located in the Kandhamal district of the Indian state of Odisha. It is situated at an altitude of 915 meters above sea level and is known as the “Kashmir of Odisha” due to its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and lush green forests.
Daringbadi is famous for its coffee plantations and is one of the few places in India where coffee is grown. Visitors can visit the coffee plantations, learn about the coffee-making process, and taste some of the delicious coffee produced in the region.
The hill station is also known for its picturesque landscape, which includes lush green forests, rolling hills, and sparkling waterfalls. The nearby Putudi Waterfall is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can also go on treks through the surrounding forests to explore the region.
Daringbadi is also known for its rich cultural heritage and is home to several indigenous communities. Visitors can interact with the locals and learn about their unique traditions, customs, and way of life.
Another popular attraction in Daringbadi is the Doluri River, which is a popular spot for fishing and picnics. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the river to explore the surrounding area and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
MAJULI
Majuli is a river island located in the Brahmaputra River in the northeastern Indian state of Assam. It is the world’s largest river island and is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Majuli is home to several indigenous communities, including the Mishing tribe, which has a unique way of life and cultural practices. Visitors can learn about the local traditions and customs by interacting with the locals and attending cultural events such as traditional dances and music performances.
The island is also known for its beautiful landscape, which includes lush green forests, rice paddies, and wetlands. The wetlands are home to several species of migratory birds and are a popular destination for birdwatchers.
Another popular attraction in Majuli is the Satras, which are Vaishnavite monasteries that are centres of traditional art, dance, and music. Visitors can witness the traditional performances and also learn about traditional art forms such as mask-making, pottery, and weaving.
Majuli is also known for its traditional boat-making industry, and visitors can witness the process of making traditional boats by hand. The island is also famous for its delicious cuisine, which includes fish dishes, bamboo shoots, and traditional Assamese sweets.
CONCLUSION
India is home to a diverse range of eco-friendly travel destinations that offer visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. From the lush green forests and waterfalls of Agumbe to the serene river island of Majuli, these destinations offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism practices. By promoting eco-tourism, these destinations are not only preserving the environment but also creating opportunities for the local communities to benefit from tourism.
Suppose you are a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a cultural explorer. In that case, these must-not-miss eco-friendly travel destinations in India are sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the country.