“Blessed are the curious for they shall have adventures.” – Lovelle Drachman

 Ecotourism is a type of sustainable tourism that focuses on preserving natural environments and promoting the well-being of local communities. It originated in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a response to the negative impacts of mass tourism on natural environments and local communities. The term “ecotourism” was first used in the late 1980s by Hector Ceballos-Lascurain, a Mexican ecologist and conservationist, who defined it as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.”

The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) was established in 1990 and the United Nations designated 2002 as the International Year of Ecotourism to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable tourism. Ecotourism has since become a global phenomenon and is now a popular form of tourism in many countries around the world.

What is the status of ecotourism in India?

Ecotourism has been gaining popularity in India in recent years, but the overall status of ecotourism in the country is still relatively underdeveloped compared to other countries.

India has a rich biodiversity and many natural landscapes, such as forests, mountains, beaches, and wetlands, that are well-suited for ecotourism. However, ecotourism development in India has been hindered by a lack of infrastructure, limited government support, and a lack of awareness about the importance of sustainable tourism among local communities and tourists.

Additionally, it is still primarily focused on wildlife tourism, while opportunities in other areas such as cultural and community-based ecotourism have been less explored.

Recently, the government has recognized the importance of ecotourism in conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development and has made efforts to promote it. The Ministry of Tourism has launched several initiatives to promote ecotourism, such as the development of eco-friendly accommodations and the promotion of sustainable tourism practices.  It could also be a valuable tool for educating tourists about environmental and cultural issues and promoting understanding and respect for local communities and their way of life.

Pointers for a tourist when choosing an eco-tourist destination?

When choosing an ecotourism destination, tourists should consider the following pointers:

1. Sustainability: Look for destinations that have been certified by reputable organizations, such as the Rainforest Alliance or the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, as they have been audited and found to meet certain sustainability standards.
2. Environmental protection: Choose destinations that have protected areas, such as national parks or biosphere reserves, and that have been set up to conserve biodiversity and protect natural resources.
3. Community involvement: Look for destinations where local communities are actively involved in the management and decision-making of ecotourism activities, and that promote the well-being of local communities.
4. Responsible tourism practices: Choose destinations that promote environmentally friendly practices, such as the use of renewable energy, recycling, and waste management.
5. Cultural sensitivity: Choose destinations that respect the local culture and customs, and that promote understanding and respect for local communities and their way of life.
6. Ecological footprint: Look for destinations that have a minimal ecological footprint and that have a good track record of conservation and sustainable development.
7. Ecotourism activities: Choose destinations that offer a wide range of ecotourism activities, such as hiking, bird watching, wildlife safari, and cultural tours that are in harmony with the natural environment and local culture.

Review and feedback: Read reviews and feedback from other tourists who have visited ecotourism destinations. This will give a good idea of the quality of the ecotourism experience and the level of sustainability.