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Eco-tourism is derived from two words - 'Ecosystem' & 'Tourism'. Together it is made Eco-tourism. To
understand Eco-tourism we have to understand our Ecosystem first.

The ecotourism has become necessary due to increasing pollution. The tourist come in India they visit
different places but at the same time they also become reason for pollution by spreading food packets,
water bottles, by creating noise pollution etc. It is needed that along with promoting only tourism it¶s
needed that we should also concentrate on the environmental aspects.

c     responsible tourism, jungle tourism, and sustainable development have become prevalent
concepts since the mid 1980s, and ecotourism has experienced arguably the fastest growth of all sub-
sectors in the tourism industry.

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

Ecotourism can be best defined as a nature based tourism that involves education, interpretation of the
natural environment and is managed to be ecologically sustainable.

Ecotourism has been used by some operators as green marketing for soft adventure products, while
giving little consideration to operating practices and impact on the environmental and local community.

There are various companies who are concentrating on the ecotourism concept. Here I have done study
of Anurayee Ecotourism Company. Anurayee eco farm was started in 2007 with the main objective of
rebuilding man¶s relationship with nature.

Anurayee tourism helps tourist to understand various environmental concepts, make them aware,
provide them education and teach them how to deal with nature and you should not create problems for
the environment to the place where you go to visit.





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?‰ Interview was conducted with the help of a Questionnaire.

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   ?‰ Internet

The report is based on the interview taken of Mrs. Mangala Singh, who is the part owner of the
company. She gave me all the necessary data required to make a project. This helped me to understand
the concept deeply.

As well as I have taken help of internet to collect the secondary data. Secondary data gives the more
detailed information on the topic which was made available by different users.

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Îollowing are the limitations of the study.
å? Lack of time : Time is a major constraint. Since enough time was not available for me it is
possible I could not study the entire industry in detail.
å? Since it is the first time I am undertaking a study project chances are there that the study might
not be accurate.
å? Enough information was not possible to obtain since authorities were restricted to provide
information beyond a certain limit.
å? ünaccess to resources.



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An ecosystem is a unit of biological organisation interacting with the physical environment such that
the flow of energy and mass leads to a characteristic trophic structure and material cycles.
- Eugene Odum the grandfather of ecology

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Eco-tourism is derived from two words - 'Ecosystem' & 'Tourism'. Together it is made Eco-tourism. To
understand Eco-tourism we have to understand our Ecosystem first.

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Ecosystem is the system in which we live - the system which
include the earth, the water, the sky and of course the living and the
non-living objects in all these systems. It is a dynamic complex of
plant, animal and micro-organism communities and their non-living
environment interacting as a functional unit.

But, there is no such specific and particular spatial unit or scale to


measure an Ecosystem. Thus, the term ecosystem does not,
necessarily, agree to the terms biome or ecological zone, but
can refer to any functioning unit at any scale. It could, for example,
be a grain of soil, a pond, a forest, the sea, the river, a biome or the
entire biosphere. And, tourism means - 'the practice of traveling for
pleasure.' Thus, a tourism which contains a visit to an Ecosystem is
known as Eco- tourism. But, that is not all. Eco-tourism is not only
travelling to such Ecosystems, but also conserving them.

Basically Eco-tourism means -

Tourism involving travel to areas of natural or ecological interest, typically under the guidance of a
naturalist, for the purpose of observing wildlife and learning about the environment and at the same time
focus on wildlife and promotion of understanding and conservation of the environment.
This is a conscientious form of tourism and tourism development, which encourages going back to
natural products in every aspect of life and help preserve nature. It is also the key to sustainable
ecological development.

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The race for becoming the most advanced and most developed state in the world, has led man to destruct
the natural resource in our stock and our biosphere. Today, most of the underground and above the
ground resources are on the verge of finish, resulting in abrupt climate, natural disaster and more. Now,
man is facing two very extreme dangerous conditions - 'Global Warming' & 'Greenhouse Effects', both
of which will lead to the total destruction of the Planet Earth. It is now high time, we should (the entire
Human Community) start our bit of job to save our Earth from complete destruction. It is now every
man's duty to do as much possible to save our Planet Earth.

Today, there are Green Laws of conservation, which are making people aware of how man and the
environment can live beneficially for more time to come and Eco-tourism is one way to maximize the
environmental and social benefits of tourism, not forgetting the economic developments. Everyone is a
stakeholder in the process and we clearly need to avoid our past shortcomings and negative impact. In
India too the movement is gathering momentum with more & more travel and travel related
organisation's are addressing the needs of the eco-tourists and promoting eco-tourism in the country.
Îundamentally, eco-tourism means making as little environmental impact as possible and helping to
sustain the indigenous populace, thereby encouraging the preservation of wildlife and habitats when
visiting a place. This is responsible form of tourism and tourism development, which encourages going
back to natural products in every aspect of life. It is also the key to sustainable ecological development.

The International Eco-tourism Society defines eco-tourism as responsible travel to natural areas that
conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people. This means that those who
implement and participate in Eco-tourism activities should follow the following principles:

Minimize impact
Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect
Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts
Provide direct financial benefits for conservation
Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people
Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social climate
Support international human rights and labour agreements

"
 c  - Today the Green Laws of conservation are making people aware of how
man and the environment can live symbiotically for more time to come and eco-tourism is the only way
to maximize the economic, environmental and social benefits of tourism. Everyone is a stakeholder in
the process and we clearly need to avoid our past shortcomings and negative impact that they have had.
In India too the movement is gathering momentum with more and more travel and travel related
organisation's are addressing the needs of the eco-tourists and promoting eco-tourism in the country.
Some basic do's and don'ts of eco-tourism are listed below:

! '

Carry back all non-degradable litter such as empty bottles, tins, plastic bags etc. These must not
litter the environment or be buried. They must be disposed in municipal dustbins only.
Observe the sanctity of holy sites, temples and local cultures.
Cut noise pollution. Do not blare aloud radios, tape recorders or other electronic entertainment
equipment in nature resorts, sanctuaries and wildlife parks.
In case temporary toilets are set-up near campsites, after defecation, cover with mud or sand. Make
sure that the spot is at least 30 meters away from the water source.
Respect people's privacy while taking photographs. Ask for prior permission before taking a
photograph.

! '

Do not take away flora and fauna in the forms of cuttings, seeds or roots. It is illegal, especially in
the Himalayas. The environment is really delicate in this region and the bio-diversity of the region
has to be protected at all costs.
Do not use pollutants such as detergent, in streams or springs while washing and bathing.
Do not use wood as fuel to cook food at the campsite.
Do not leave cigarettes butts or make open fires in the forests.
Do not consume aerated drinks, alcohol, drugs or any other intoxicant and throw bottles in the wild.
Do not tempt the locals, especially children by offering them foodstuff or sweets. Respect local
traditions.
Polythene and plastics are non biodegradable and unhealthy for the environment and must not be
used and littered.
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Hector Ceballos-Lascurain popularized (and he would say coined) the term 'ecotourism' in July 1983,
when he was performing the dual role of Director General of Standards and Technology of SEDüE (the
Mexican Ministry of ürban Development and Ecology) and founding president of PRONATüRA (an
influential Mexican conservationist NGO). PRONATüRA was lobbying for the conservation of the
wetlands in northern Yucatán as breeding and feeding habitats of the American Îlamingo.

Others claim the term was in use earlier: Claus-Dieter (Nick) Hetzer, an academic and adventurer from
Îorum International in Berkeley CA, coined the term in 1965 and ran the first ecotours in the Yucatán
during the early 1970s.

c     responsible tourism, jungle tourism, and sustainable development have become prevalent
concepts since the mid 1980s, and ecotourism has experienced arguably the fastest growth of all sub-
sectors in the tourism industry. The popularity represents a change in tourist perceptions, increased
environmental awareness, and a desire to explore natural environments. At times, such changes become
as much a statement affirming one's social identity, educational sophistication, and disposable income as
it has about preserving the Amazon rainforest or the Caribbean reef for posterity.

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that involves visiting natural areas -- in the remote wilderness or urban
environments. According to the definition and principles of ecotourism established by The International
Ecotourism Society (TIES) in 1990, ecotourism is Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the
environment and improves the well-being of local people. (TIES, 1990). Martha Honey, expands on the
TIES definition by describing the seven characteristics of ecotourism, which are:

à? Involves travel to natural destinations


à? Minimizes impact
à? Builds environmental awareness
à? Provides direct financial benefits for conservation
à? Provides financial benefits and empowerment for local people
à? Respects local culture
à? Supports human rights and democratic movements
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Ecotourism is entirely a new approach in tourism. Ecotourism is a
preserving travel to natural areas to appreciate the cultural and natural
history of the environment, taking care not to disturb the integrity of the
ecosystem, while creating economic opportunities that make
conservation and protection of natural resources advantageous to the
local people.

In short, ecotourism can be categorised as a tourism programme that is -


Nature based, Ecologically sustainable, Where education and
interpretation is a major constituent and Where local people are
benefited.

All this together can be called ecotourism. If a travel does not satisfy
any one of these constituents, then it is not called a real ecotourism
venture.

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Since ages, nature worship and the conservation ethics have been an inseparable part of Indian thought
and traditions. Traces go back to ancient civilisations of India, when people used to nurture the
philosophy of the oneness of life. The Indian tradition has always taught that, humankind is a part of
nature and one should look upon all creation with the eyes of a love and respect.

It is tragic that since last few decades, the mad quest for the material end and economical progress in
India and abroad has become identical with the exploitation of nature in all its appearances. Today, the
entire world is facing a deep crisis and is in the danger of being doomed. The rich forest areas and
biological diversities have been relentlessly divested to erect concrete walls. The continuos denuding of
forest reserves has led to Global Warming and Greenhouse Effects. Îortunately, this has led to some
realisation, and now the world has awaken for new beginnings about
human responsibility towards nature.

c    


India, the land of varied geography offers several tourist destinations


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

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

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

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Ecotourism can be best defined as a nature based tourism that involves education, interpretation of the
natural environment and is managed to be ecologically sustainable. In order to explore the tourism
potential of an area, thorough study needs to be conducted to assess tourism supporting motivational
activities, places and basic infrastructural facilities availability like roads, hospitals, and communication.
The use of Remote Sensing and GIS has greatly helped in exploring diverse types of natural and cultural
attractions to provide base for designing the travel industry for a responsible mass ecotourism.

Assessment, planning and declaration of Ecotourism potential sites is one of the thrust area where the
Park has been actively engaged. Categorizing area, on the basis of their history, geographical location,
landscape beauty and indispensable tourist facility and public amenities forms the basis for declaring an
area as a tourist potential zone. Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) have
played a vital role by providing customized maps, layouts and information services to the end user.

The North Eastern Region of India comprising eight states, including Sikkim, is a relatively unexplored
and unique area, in terms of both geography and cultural diversity as it provides one with a glimpse of
not just a µmini India¶, but also of S.E Asia, all within a space of 265,000 sq.km.

The indigenous people belong to mainly the Mongoloid and Tibeto-Burman stock and have preserved
their culture, language and way of life, even in the present century. The rich flora, fauna, diverse
topography and ethnic groups have of late, started attracting domestic as well as foreign tourists into the
region and recently, community-based tourism has gained importance.
While community-based tourism has been used to describe a variety of activities that seek to positively
link conservation with economic development, many of the issues involved in the development of a
community-based tourist area are not clearly defined.

There are many concerns about managing negative impacts on local environments, while at the same
time sufficiently involving local communities in the planning process to receive just benefits from
tourism activities. This paper seeks to examine the potentiality of cultural and eco-tourism in the states
of N.E India and the steps that need to be taken in order to make the above activity/industry into a
sustainable one.

Kerala, of all the states in India, offers the maximum potential for the promotion of ecotourism. Miles
and miles of endless serene beaches, tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, pristine valleys and
mountains, exotic species of rare flora and fauna, wild life sanctuaries and national parks, enchanting art
forms, magical festivals and cultural monuments are all unique to Kerala and has given it the sobriquet
of ³Gods own country´. The national geographic traveler has labeled Kerala as one of the 10 paradises
in the world. Kerala is thus ideally suited for the promotion of ecotourism and has already initiated
several steps in this direction.

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ünderstanding the nature of eco tourism and the travelers who purchase eco tourism products is the first
step in establishing an eco tourism business.

The ecotourism ethic requires adherence to stringent environmental standards. Ecotourism has been used
by some operators as green marketing for soft adventure products, while giving little consideration to
operating practices and impact on the environmental and local community. Operating in
environmentally responsible manner requires additional planning and may increase start up cost.
Environmental impact assessment may be required, depending upon the nature of business and its
location.

Marketing an ecotourism products differ from that of conventional tourism product. The need of
ecotourists are greater in the area of interpretation, variety and quality of experience, and group size.
The ability to customize tour and access remote destinations are important factor.

Some market segment may be hard to reach. Wildlife viewers and other natural history enthusiasts are
more fragmented and require a broader selection of advertising tools. Daily operations also present
special difficulty.

Maintaining the highly trained and diverse workforce requires sound human resource management. The
ecotourism product may need several operating seasons to generate a return to investors. This require
careful consideration in budgeting, start-up costs, and selection of financing.
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There are many advantages and disadvantages of ecotourism. If done right, there are many more
advantages of ecotourism than disadvantages. ünfortunately, ecotourism is still a new field of study and
a new sub sector of the tourism industry. And, with most new found industries, many organizations,
companies, and countries are taking advantage of it.

Also, a lot of people are still trying to understand exactly what


ecotourism is and whether they could trust the brochures or information
put out by various sources. The key problem is that so many people are
taking advantage of the idea of ecotourism and others trying to do good
for the environment.

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Ecotourism is an industry that stands to make a lot of money from tourists that are seeking
environmentally friendly vacations or ecologically friendly activities. The money from ecotourism could
be used to preserve nature, wildlife, species and earth's natural resources as well as help local people
with access to civilization and education.

Îor example, if a country is prime for ecotourism, the money could be used to preserve the environment
in that country so that the natural resources would last longer. Local residents could also benefit from
the growth in their economy and no longer have to live poorly. This, however, usually does not happen
in reality because the locals rarely benefit from the growth of their economy. The investors and foreign
corporations do. And the environment and natural resources rarely get preserved because they are worth
more in a theme park attracting ecotourists.

!"!"c

although the concept of ecotourism is a good one and can potentially help the environment, you need to
decide if it is worth sacrificing all the natural resources to make room for tourists.

After all, it is impossible to stop people from putting profit first before the environment.

à? Agreeing on the definition of ecotourism


à? Îocusing on tourism to generate income or focusing on improving the environment
à? negative impacts on local communities
à? physical displacement of persons, gross violation of fundamental rights, and environmental
hazards
à? illegally keeping endangered species in captivity to attract visitors
à? money spent on public relation campaigns, rather than actual ecotourism
à? less money spent on other projects that help the environment more
à? damage to the environment
à? disruption of ecological life systems
à? various forms of pollution such as from more tour vehicles
à? less rare species as they are widely hunted down and kept for show
à? foreign investors and corporations benefit from ecotourism, not local communities
à? locals are moved to make room for tourist parks, resorts, etc.
à? exploitation of local communities and tribes
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Since ages, nature worship and the conservation ethics have been an inseparable part of Indian thought
and traditions.

Traces go back to ancient civilizations of India, when people used to nurture the philosophy of the
oneness of life. The Indian tradition has always taught that, humankind is a part of nature and one should
look upon all creations with the eyes of love and respect.

Anurayee ecofarm was started in 2007 with the main objective of rebuilding man¶s relationship with
nature.
ürban living has made man completely insensitive to his surroundings, people and environment. The
mad quest for material ends and economic progress in India and abroad has been identified with the
exploitation of nature in all its appearances.

Anurayee gives an opportunity to rebuild this relationship & sensitivity to the world around us.
Nature has powers to heal in many different ways- mentally , emotionally and physically by turning
one's focus inward.

We have been fortunate to have been one of the awardees for the Hirkani
Award. Given by Doordarshan Sahyadri Vahini Îeb -2009, for our efforts
to bring nature & man together again.

Agrotourism and Ecotourism is a natural offshoot of the above concept.


India¶s topography boasts an abundant source of flora & fauna. Therefore
the farm has organically grown vegetables, fruits and flowers.

Over two thousand trees have been planted to make sure the farm has enough of green cover. We build
environmental and cultural awareness and respect.

Provide positive experiences for visitors and financial benefits and empowerment of local people. Raise
sensitivity to the country¶s political, environmental and social climate.

Anurayee is not just a tourist destination that de-stresses you, but will also rejuvenate you.
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Îacilities

1.? A Large open hall for activities and programs


2.? Amphitheatre
3.? Clean, self-contained cottages to stay
4.? Meditation centre
5.? Peaceful atmosphere in natural surroundings, waterfall, walking trail in the forest and along the
riverside

à? True joy of rural life


à? The joy of lazing in a clean, gently flowing river, getting drenched under a waterfall,In nullahs
and ponds.
à? Learn about organic farming.
à? ünderstanding of fruit and flower trees and their peculiarities
à? Enjoy the novelty of a bullock cart ride
à? Varied program of rural leisure activities
à? An introduction to spices and medicinal plants
à? Get to see a nursery
à? Enjoy hearty rural meals, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian
à? An opportunity to actually dirty your hands and work on the farm under expert guidance
à? Entertainment programs in the moonlight
à? Plenty of outdoor activity like hiking, nature walks, swimming in the river
à? Tour of an Adivasi village
à? Arrangements can be made for leisure programs(dance,singing,drama)
à? Personalized programs arranged as per your specific requirements
"    

The concept of agro tourism is direct expansion of ecotourism, which encourages visitors to experience
agricultural life at first hand. Visitors have the opportunity to work in the fields alongside real farmers.

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à? Îarm Tours
à? Tractor /Bullock Cart rides
à? Îarm visits
à? Bird Watching
à? Varied programme of rural leisure activities
à? An introduction to spices and medicinal plants
à? Get to see a nursery and green house
à? Tour of the Adivasi Village
à? Star Gazing

Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.

Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.

Provide direct financial benefits for conservation.

Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people.

Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental and social climate.

Support international human rights and labor agreements.


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AOA offers you an opportunity to help the overall development of
your child through an integrated programme of exciting outdoor
activities and appropriate personality development programmes. Here
is an opportunity of participating in non-traditional activities in a
rural setting to help your child develop self confidence. This programme will be conducted in a rural
setting amidst sylvan surroundings in the vicinity of mountains, forests and an ever flowing river, away
from the noise and pollution of city life

Anurayee has tied up with Adventure Extreme to provide you with the best trained and qualified
instructors with years of experience in mountain climbing, trekking in the wild, and generally helping
your child to begin to appreciate and enjoy the untamed nature. The team of instructors will be led by
Rajesh Kateshiya (M.Phil., M.P.Ed), Sports Director, S.K.Somaiya College. Your child¶s safety is
paramount.The planned programme will enhance the child¶s capability through a µlearning by doing
programme¶. Your child will learn while he is having fun and even without realizing that he is part of a
learning experience. All the planned activities are designed to create in your child a positive attitude to
life, perseverance in the face of odds, will power to overcome tough situations, with the net result that
you will see a noticeable difference in the confidence level of your child and a µcan do¶ attitude after he
has enjoyed the outdoors with us.

This programme will help the child discover dormant talents and skills, improve team building
capabilities and inculcate leadership qualities.

As part of this programme we offer you the following:

à? Tent fitting
à? Night march
à? Commando bridge
à? Ladder climbing
à? River crossing
à? Valley crossing
à? Net climbing
à? Obstacle course
à? Mountain trekking (Mahuli mountain)
à? Rifle shooting
à? Self defence
à? Îire fighting
à? Outdoor cooking
à? Camp fire
à? Îun and games
à? Yoga
à? Personality development
à? Protein enriched meals as prescribed by a nutritionist
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ANüRAYEE OÎÎER¶S THEIR GüESTS
Amphitheatre which is situated near lush green lawns & scenic
waterfall«and has a capacity of accommodating 200-300 Guest
at a time«

Come celebrate your Memorable Moments with us

à? Wedding / Marriage Îunctions


à? Anniversary Celebrations
à? Birthday Parties
à? Sangeet Programmes
à? Musical Concerts
à? Îamily Picnics
à? Arrangements done for Leisure programs like dance,
Sangeet & drama

Îor the above programs we have following facilities available:

‡ Amphitheatre with Stage

‡ ÎloralDecoration

‡ Micro Phone & Music

‡ Digital Photography & Video Shooting

Anurayee is an ideal place for Meditation & Yoga Camps«Experts can be arranged

You get to see Nursery ‰ ³How lush and lusty the grass looks! How green!´

Enjoy Making Cord marked Pottery - One of the hallmarks of early village life around the world.


 

 +

Manas Mandir (Jain temple) / Mahuli Hills for trekking / Bhatsa river / Shiv Mandir / Aja Hill (Valmiki
ashram) / Dams
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As an eco-tourist, travel, respecting local culture and traditions and encouraging local pride---local
cuisine, folk songs and dance, traditional dresses, local etiquette, local architecture. There is a
science (gharat) and art (colour) in everything. Be friendly, inquisitive and patient. Respect holy
places.

ünderstand that leakage of economic benefits outside the community due to non-local ownership
of tourism business is bad. Give a fair price to rural produce by buying local. Indigenously crafted
or value added products provide the right livelihood to the locals and use up less natural resources.

Think eco-systems---Be conservation conscious. Support friendly resource usage²water through


rain water harvesting, use of non-conventional energy; if electricity is unavailable, use energy-
efficient kerosene stoves.

. Respect carrying capacity of the physical environment and the resources, knowing that
overcrowding leads to a lessening of the tranquility and simplicity of life that attracts you in the
first place.

Make positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, maintain local
harmony.

Keep local water sources clean and avoid using chemical detergents in streams or springs.
Conservation of water is vital, especially drinking water. Water from Kitchen waste or rain-water
through regular harvesting be used for sanitation and use, where quality of water required is not
very high. Water source should not be contaminated in any way.

Îirewood is scarce and should be used carefully, whether for heating water (hamam) or for bonfire
or for fire-places provided. Avoid making open fires and discourage others from doing so. There
should be no carelessness with reference to fire.
Check vehicle travel to reduce for polluting gases/smoke. Pooling for travel is cheaper and lesser
polluting. üse bicycles/horses/ponies and wherever possible walk---healthy, non-polluting²stand
and stare²there is so much to absorb²the mountain terrain is awesome, serene and educative.
It is illegal to carry fire-arms/nets or any explosives. Do not also carry polythenes or other prohibited
plastics.

While taking photographs or shooting with your video-camera (for which there is a prescribed fee)
you are encouraged not to disturb the subject you want to capture in any way. Do not use flashes,
particularly close up, as this can disturb and annoy wild animals and nesting birds.

Strictly follow the guidelines for personal safety and security taking required precautions.

Wear comfortable clothes with inconspicuous colours like khaki, olive green or grey so as not to
disturb environs with bright and gaudy colours. üse good quality trekking shoes²some are rain-
proof too. üse hats/caps during hot days and rain gear during rains and jackets/wind-cheaters during
cold. Travel light in terms of baggage. Back packers only carry essentials²food, medicines, camera.


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People from around the worl visit India and its natural reserves, the mountains and plains. The more the
human interference, more is the balance of nature disrupted. To curb this over exposure of nature, a new
branch of tourism came into existence called Eco-tourism.

The eco tourism fever has caught up in India recently but it has picked up pace very quickly. India
specifically was in dire need of this sort of tourism owing to the number of tourists it has started
attracting from the world over. When so many tourists visit nature rich destination, they are bound to be
polluted. And when the influx of humans is rapid, the environmental conditions do deteriorate. To bring
back the balance, it is very important to spread awareness which can be done easily through program
like eco tourism.

Hence the country has tried leveraging its natural assets like the Himalayas in the north and east, the
wildlife spread all across the nations, the rich green of down south and a massive forest cover.

In India eco tourism only can go uphill. Stats suggest that each year the revenue grow by 7.7%. In past
there already have been many a successful attempts in promoting eco tourism. Even now the future of
eco tourism is bright as famous projects like Jim Corbett National Park, Ranthambore, Gir Lion Park,
houseboat cruises in Kerala etc that were started a few years back are running successfully.

If you look at these places closely you realize that eco tourism already existed in the minds of people
even before the concept was devised. However the term eco tourism is western which sort of provides a
fancy packaging to an already existing service.








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Tourism has proved to be an engine of growth in many economies in the world. Tourism has proved to
have negative impacts as well as the positive ones. It is criticized for contaminating indigenous culture.
Due to heavy tourist traffic in some areas, the cultural and environmental assets of the community are
under threat. Although this phenomenon is not widespread in India, there is a need to take note of the
possible negative influences of tourism so that timely preservation action can be taken and irreparable
loss avoided.

The movement towards ecotourism is at once a threat and an opportunity to create more sustainable
tourism: by diverting tourist traffic to ensure the carrying capacity of any destination is not exceeded; by
planning for regeneration of natural resources; and by generating awareness in the host community
whereby they are prepared and forearmed to deal with the negative impact of mass tourism.
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QüESTIONNAIRE

1.? Why the concept of green tourism was adopted by your organization? And how it
is different than normal tourism?

2.? What is the location you take your tourist for ecotourism?

3.? What are the activities you engaged in, at this particular destination?

4.? Why do people come over here? What are the benefits the get? What they learn?

5.? Are there any international/national regulations governing ecotourism?

6.? Who are your clients? Do you have any collaboration with corporate, school, travel
tourist?

7.? Do you have any fixed departure trips?

8.? What do you teach you tourist during tour?

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