From Coorg to Spiti: 5 Sustainable Travel Experiences You’ll Love

India, with its diverse landscapes, offers a rich experience for adventurous travellers. We have seen in recent years that a new wave of conscious tourism has emerged. People have started focusing on responsible travelling that also helps them enjoy memorable moments with friends and family.

How about swapping your typical getaway for an adventure that not only thrills your senses but also nurtures the planet? Here are five places across India where sustainability isn’t just a buzzword:

1. Coorg, Karnataka 

What to do here: A journey into organic coffee plantations

Cradled in the misty hills of Karnataka, Coorg is known for its lush landscapes and vast coffee plantations. But beyond the beauty, it offers something truly unique: a chance to immerse yourself in sustainable coffee farming. 

Visitors can walk through the plantations, picking organic coffee beans alongside local farmers. It is an experience that offers insight into sustainable farming practices and the challenges of growing coffee without chemicals. As you sip on a freshly brewed cup of Coorgi coffee, you will gain an appreciation for the efforts that go into producing this beloved beverage.

2. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

What to do here: Discover organic farming in the Himalayas

In the remote Spiti Valley, tucked away in the northern Himalayas, the rhythms of life are dictated by the seasons and the land. Here, farmers have long practiced organic farming in the face of harsh climatic conditions. 

The high-altitude region, with its barren yet striking landscapes, is home to small communities dedicated to preserving traditional farming methods. As a visitor, you can explore these farming practices, engage with local families, and learn about the agricultural techniques that have sustained the region for generations.

3. Alibaug, Maharashtra 

What to do here: Engage in coastal sustainability and marine conservation

Just a short ferry ride away from Mumbai, Alibaug offers a peaceful escape with a strong emphasis on eco-tourism. The coastal town is home to several eco-friendly resorts that focus on minimising their environmental impact. Visitors can relax on pristine beaches, indulge in organic seafood, and even participate in beach clean-ups to help preserve the coastline. This destination’s commitment to sustainability extends to its marine conservation efforts, guaranteeing that the area remains a safe space for both nature and travellers alike.

4. Wayanad, Kerala 

What to do here: Experience eco-tourism in the Western Ghats

For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Wayanad in Kerala is an unmissable destination. Located in the Western Ghats, this region is known for its biodiverse forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and organic farming communities. 

Eco-resorts offer visitors the chance to stay in harmony with nature, while guided treks allow you to explore the lush forests and spot native wildlife. Local farmers showcase their organic produce, and many initiatives focus on the conservation of the region’s rich flora and fauna.

5. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

What to do here: Join sustainable yoga retreats by the Ganges

Rishikesh, often regarded as the yoga capital of the world, is more than just a spiritual destination. The town, located by the banks of the Ganges River, has long been committed to eco-friendly practices. 

Yoga retreats here are designed to integrate sustainability with wellness, from organic meals to water conservation efforts. Visitors can participate in yoga, meditation, and environmental workshops and contribute to preserving the sacred and natural beauty of Rishikesh.

Edited by Vidya Gowri

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