India, with its diverse tapestry of traditions and landscapes, draws millions of travellers seeking adventure, culture and enlightenment. However, tourism also brings a plethora of challenges, from overcrowding at popular destinations to environmental degradation and cultural commodification, and tourists can also perpetuate issues such as poverty and animal cruelty.
Overtourism in popular destinations like Goa and Rajasthan has led to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and a strain on local resources in areas. The unchecked growth of tourism infrastructure often comes at the cost of fragile ecosystems and cultural heritage sites. Additionally, the rise of mass tourism has led to the commodification of cultural experiences, with authenticity being sacrificed for commercial gain. Though India is huge, there is still a tourist trail, with millions visiting the same sites over and over. Unchecked tourism in ecologically sensitive areas can have detrimental effects on local communities and ecosystems and inadequate regulation and enforcement may lead to habitat destruction, displacement of indigenous communities, and exploitation of natural resources, exacerbating poverty and environmental degradation.
Poverty and begging
India’s poverty and inequality is a stark reality that can confront. In urban centres like Mumbai and Delhi, towering skyscrapers sit next to sprawling slums, where millions reside in makeshift dwellings, lacking access to clean water, sanitation, and basic amenities. According to the World Bank, approximately 22% of India’s population lives below the poverty line, struggling to meet their daily needs. India’s poverty rate has declined from over 60% in the 1980s reflecting the success of poverty alleviation efforts. However, challenges such as income inequality, regional disparities, and persistent social inequalities remain. The richest 1% of the population holds more than 20% of the country’s wealth, while the bottom 50% struggles to make ends meet. Systemic factors such as caste discrimination and gender disparities further exacerbate the plight of the marginalized, perpetuating a cycle of poverty that is difficult to break.
While it may be tempting to give money to beggars, it is essential to consider the long-term implications of doing so. Giving money directly to individuals can perpetuate a cycle of dependency and exploitation. Instead, consider supporting local charities and organizations that work to address the root causes of poverty, such as access to education and healthcare. Engage with local communities in meaningful ways, such as supporting social enterprises that provide employment opportunities to marginalized groups.
Slum Tourism
In cities like Mumbai and Delhi, slum tourism has become popular where tourists visit impoverished areas. While some argue it raises awareness about social issues, critics contend that it objectifies and exploits residents, turning poverty into a spectacle for profit without addressing underlying causes. However by seeking out responsible tour operators or community-led initiatives that offer authentic insights into life in the slums while prioritizing the dignity and privacy of residents, tourists can gain a much better understanding of how life and livelihoods work in slum dwellings, and income can be gained for slum communities. Reality Tours and Travel is one such award-winning tour operator that runs ethical slum tours.
Visiting or Volunteering at Orphanages
Tourists should refrain from visiting or volunteering at orphanages in India due to the harm it can inflict on vulnerable children and communities. Orphanage tourism perpetuates a cycle of dependency and exploitation, where children are treated as tourist attractions rather than individuals deserving of dignity and privacy. Visits from well-meaning but untrained volunteers disrupt children’s routines, leading to attachment issues and emotional instability. And the influx of volunteers may divert resources away from long-term solutions such as family reunification, foster care, or community-based support systems. Many orphanages in India operate under substandard conditions, lacking proper oversight and accountability, making them unsuitable environments for children’s well-being. Instead, tourists should support reputable organizations working towards family preservation, education, and community development, empowering children to thrive within their own cultural contexts while respecting their rights and dignity.
Elephant Riding
Elephant riding has long been a popular activity for travellers visiting India, offering a unique opportunity to experience the majestic beauty of these creatures up close. However, behind the scenes, many elephants endure cruelty and exploitation to meet the demands of the tourism industry. Forced to perform tricks, carry heavy loads, and endure harsh living conditions, these animals suffer immensely for the sake of entertainment. Responsible travellers should boycott elephant riding and other exploitative activities that harm these intelligent and sensitive beings. Instead, support ethical elephant sanctuaries and rehabilitation centres that provide a safe and nurturing environment for rescued elephants to live out their lives free from exploitation.
Houseboat Tourism
Houseboat tourism in India, particularly in regions like Kerala and Kashmir, offers a unique and tranquil way to experience the country’s picturesque waterways and lush landscapes. However, concerns have been raised regarding the environmental impact and social implications of this booming industry including issues such as pollution from houseboat waste, depletion of water resources, and displacement of local communities due to commercialization. Efforts to address these concerns include promoting sustainable practices such as waste management systems on houseboats, regulating the number of vessels operating in ecologically sensitive areas, and ensuring fair labour practices for boat crew and staff.
What You Can Do
Amidst these challenges, numerous initiatives have emerged. From eco-friendly accommodation and community-based tourism projects to government policies promoting sustainable development, there is a growing movement towards fostering responsible tourism practices. How tourists behave and act matters too. Respecting local customs and traditions, minimizing our environmental footprint, supporting local businesses, and engaging in ethical wildlife tourism are just a few ways in which tourists can make a difference.
Respect local customs
Respecting local customs and traditions involves taking the time to learn about the culture and customs of the places we visit. This may include dressing modestly, learning a few phrases in the local language, and seeking permission before photographing people or religious sites. By showing respect for local customs, we can foster mutual understanding and appreciation.
Seek out independent guides, tours, places to stay and shops
Instead of dining at global chains, seek out locally-owned restaurants and markets that serve authentic cuisine. Purchase souvenirs directly from artisans and craftsmen, rather than from mass-produced tourist shops, use local guides and stay at homestays or small community-owned hotels. Visiting lesser touristed places in India can also benefit local communities by distributing tourism revenue more equitably, reducing overcrowding and environmental strain in popular destinations, creating opportunities for economic diversification, and preserving traditional cultures and ways of life.
Visit social enterprises like Café Sheroes Hangout in Agra, run by acid attack survivors, or Dhonk Craft in Ranthambore, which empowers local women through wildlife-inspired handicrafts. Jaipur Rugs Foundation empowers rural artisans, particularly women, by providing them with employment opportunities in rug weaving. Tourists can visit their centres to observe the traditional art of rug making and purchase ethically crafted rugs directly from the artisans. Conserve India in New Delhi upcycles plastic waste into high-quality fashion accessories and home decor items which are available to buy.
The Goat Village in Uttarakhand offer immersive experiences in rural settings, encouraging responsible tourism while preserving the natural beauty of the region. For luxury, Evolve Back in India is renowned for its high-end eco-friendly resorts that offer guests an immersive experience in the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The Spiti Ecosphere initiative in Himachal Pradesh, focuses on sustainable tourism development in the remote Spiti Valley. Through initiatives like homestays, cultural tours, and conservation projects, Spiti Ecosphere has helped to preserve the unique cultural heritage and fragile ecosystems of the region, while providing economic opportunities for local residents. Desia Koraput is a sustainable tourism initiative in Odisha, India, offering authentic cultural experiences in the tribal heartland of Koraput district.
For more responsible tourism initiatives, the Indian Responsible Travel Awards is a good place to see best practice tours, accommodation and projects throughout the country.
Be an ethical wildlife tourist
Engaging in ethical wildlife tourism involves avoiding activities that exploit or harm animals for entertainment. This includes refraining from riding, washing or bathing with elephants, visiting venues that offer animal performances, or participating in activities that involve captive wildlife. Instead, seek out responsible wildlife experiences that prioritize animal welfare and conservation, such as ethical sanctuaries or wildlife tours led by knowledgeable guides. India offers several incredible destinations to witness tigers in their natural habitat. Support initiatives that contribute to tiger conservation efforts and promote sustainable tourism practices. TOFT Tigers is an initiative dedicated to promoting responsible wildlife tourism and tiger conservation in India through partnerships with tourism operators, conservationists, and local communities and is a good place to start to find responsible wildlife watching experiences.
Community conservation
Supporting community-based conservation initiatives helps contribute to the preservation of natural resources while uplifting marginalized indigenous communities.
The Chambal Safari initiative in Uttar Pradesh, which offers wildlife tours in the Chambal River sanctuary. By promoting responsible wildlife tourism, Chambal Safari has helped to protect endangered species like the Ganges river dolphin and the gharial crocodile, while also supporting the livelihoods of local communities who depend on the river for their sustenance.
The Bishnois are a community known for their strong environmental ethic and commitment to wildlife conservation. Tourists can visit Bishnoi villages near Jodhpur and witness their conservation practices, such as protecting trees and wildlife sanctuaries. Additionally, visitors can engage in cultural exchanges and homestays, supporting the community’s efforts to preserve their traditions and natural heritage.
The Kani tribe inhabits the forests surrounding Silent Valley National Park in Kerala. Tourists can visit Kani settlements and participate in guided tours led by community members, learning about their traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and sustainable forest management practices. Supporting community-led ecotourism initiatives helps empower the Kani tribe economically while promoting conservation of the biodiversity-rich Silent Valley ecosystem.
The Toda tribe, indigenous to the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, has a deep connection to the landscape and biodiversity of the region. Tourists can visit Toda settlements and engage in cultural experiences such as traditional ceremonies, handicraft demonstrations, and guided walks through their sacred groves. Supporting community-based tourism initiatives led by the Toda tribe contributes to the preservation of their cultural heritage and the conservation of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
We love that responsible travel is gaining significant traction among adventurers and explorers worldwide. As travellers, we hold immense power to shape the destinations we visit, leaving behind footprints that can either preserve or harm the places and communities we encounter.