A New Way Of Travelling
World Tourism Day is celebrated every year on September 27, and in 2025 the theme is Tourism and Sustainable Transformation. Across the country, more travellers are showing a strong preference for destinations that encourage eco-friendly practices. Instead of rushing to overcrowded tourist hubs, many are slowing down, connecting with communities, and leaving lighter footprints on the environment.
India has quietly been building a strong ecotourism movement and today some destinations stand out for their dedication to sustainability. They are not only scenic but also conscious, making them perfect choices for long weekends and meaningful holidays.
1. Thenmala Kerala’s Green Treasure
Thenmala in Kerala is India’s first planned eco-tourism centre and it continues to inspire travellers who want to combine natural beauty with responsible tourism. Nestled in the Kollam district, the name translates to honey hills. Surrounded by forests, rivers, and wildlife, the destination offers canopy treks, gentle boating on the dam reservoir, and even rock climbing, all designed to leave minimal impact on the environment. Thenmala has become a model of how eco-tourism can work in practice, offering travellers adventure without harming nature.
2. Mawlynnong Asia’s Cleanest Village
Mawlynnong in Meghalaya has earned fame as one of the cleanest villages in Asia. It is home to the famous living root bridges that weave together tradition and nature, as well as bamboo-made Sky View point, which rises 85 feet above the ground. Walking through its bamboo groves feels like entering a world where every detail has been nurtured with care. Travellers can also enjoy local Khasi delicacies, from pork cooked with fresh greens to fermented soybean dishes, making the experience both sustainable and cultural.
3. Spiti Valley Where Nature Meets Wisdom
High up in Himachal Pradesh, Spiti Valley is more than a breathtaking cold desert. The community here has adopted practices like waste management, renewable energy, and water conservation to preserve their fragile environment. Travellers are drawn to its raw beauty, from the sparkling Chandratal Lake to the ancient Tabo Monastery, which is often called the Ajanta of the Himalayas for its murals and sculptures. For those willing to explore further, treks to hidden lakes and snow-capped peaks reveal just how closely life in Spiti is tied to respect for nature.
4. Coorg Karnataka’s Sustainable Retreat
Coorg, or Kodagu, in Karnataka, has long been known for its coffee estates, but today it is also celebrated as a hub of eco-friendly travel. Many plantations now offer guided tours on sustainable farming and organic cultivation. The region is also home to Nagarhole National Park, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, where responsible wildlife tourism takes centre stage. Trekking to waterfalls like Mallalli and Chelavara adds to the experience, offering adventure while staying connected to the environment.
5. Matheran A Hill Station Without Cars
Matheran in Maharashtra is unique in Asia for being a hill station where motor vehicles are banned. Just a few hours from Mumbai, this car-free zone forces you to slow down and walk, creating a rare sense of peace. Its viewpoints are spread across short trails, and for those who prefer, horseback rides add charm to the journey. The local market, with handmade leather goods and sweet chikki, brings travellers closer to the community. Wildlife is another surprise here, with early mornings perfect for spotting rare birds like the Malabar whistling thrush.
Why These Places Matter
These destinations show that travel can be both enjoyable and sustainable. By choosing places like Thenmala, Mawlynnong, Spiti, Coorg, and Matheran, travellers support communities that are actively working to protect their environment while also creating meaningful experiences. They represent a shift in the way we look at travel, proving that sustainability and exploration can go hand in hand.
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