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New Delhi: As the world marks World Environment Day on June 5, conversations around sustainability often focus on reducing waste, conserving resources and protecting ecosystems. Travel, too, has an important role to play. Eco-tourism encourages travellers to explore natural landscapes responsibly while supporting local communities and conservation efforts. India, with its diverse geography and rich biodiversity, offers several destinations where tourism and environmental awareness go hand in hand. Eco-tourism destinations allow visitors to experience nature without losing sight of sustainability.

Many of them actively promote conservation, community participation and eco-friendly practices. Eco-tourism offers a more meaningful way to travel through activities like birdwatching in Odisha, exploring forests in Kerala or learning about indigenous cultures in Assam. Here are some of India’s most notable eco-tourism destinations for nature enthusiasts and responsible travellers.

Eco-tourism destinations in India Thenmala, Kerala

Recognised as India’s first planned eco-tourism destination, Thenmala is located in Kerala’s Kollam district amid the Western Ghats. Dense forests, nature trails and adventure activities make it a favourite among outdoor enthusiasts.

• Activities: Nature walks, trekking, boating, butterfly safari, canopy walk, cycling and adventure sports.
• Where to stay: Apichayans Cliff Resort
• Nearest railhead: Thiruvananthapuram
• Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram Airport

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Nestled in the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal combines scenic landscapes with rich biodiversity. Lakes, waterfalls, forests and grasslands attract travellers looking to spend time in nature while exploring one of South India’s most popular hill destinations.

• Activities: Trekking, cycling, visiting waterfalls, horse riding, yoga, meditation and sightseeing.
• Where to stay: Black Band Cottages
• Nearest railhead: Kodai Road
• Nearest airport: Madurai Airport

Coorg, Karnataka

Known for its coffee plantations, forests and wildlife, Coorg is one of Karnataka’s most visited eco-tourism destinations. The region is home to protected forests, wildlife sanctuaries and numerous opportunities for adventure activities.

• Activities: Trekking, coffee plantation tours, river rafting, wildlife safaris, camping and waterfall visits.
• Where to stay: Alpinia Estate Stay
• Nearest railhead: Mysore
• Nearest airport: Mandakalli Airport, Mysore

Tyda, Andhra Pradesh

Tucked away in the Eastern Ghats, Tyda remains relatively unexplored compared to many mainstream destinations. Surrounded by forests and diverse wildlife, it offers a peaceful setting for travellers seeking a closer connection with nature.

• Activities: Trekking, camping, zip lining, rock climbing, nature walks and waterfall visits.
• Where to stay: Jungle Bells
• Nearest railhead: Visakhapatnam
• Nearest airport: Visakhapatnam International Airport

Chilika, Odisha

Chilika Lake, India’s largest coastal lagoon, is a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The wetland supports a wide variety of migratory birds, aquatic life and the famous Irrawaddy dolphins, making it one of the country’s most important ecological zones.

• Activities: Boating, dolphin sightings, birdwatching, photography and local seafood experiences.
• Where to stay: Panthanivas Barkul
• Nearest railhead: Balugaon
• Nearest airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar

Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

Home to the world’s largest mangrove ecosystem, the Sundarbans offers a unique wildlife experience. The national park is known for its Royal Bengal Tigers, rich biodiversity and intricate network of waterways and islands.

• Activities: Boating, wildlife spotting, birdwatching, village walks, island hopping and photography.
• Where to stay: Royal Bengal Resort
• Nearest railhead: Canning
• Nearest airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata

Majuli, Assam

Situated in the Brahmaputra River, Majuli is the world’s largest river island and an important centre of Assam’s cultural and ecological heritage. Eco-friendly stays, birdlife and traditional tribal communities add to its appeal.

• Activities: Boating, village exploration, birdwatching, cultural experiences and photography.
• Where to stay: Uttar Kamalabari Satra, Jorhat and La Lolat Eco Camp, Majuli
• Nearest railhead: Jorhat
• Nearest airport: Jorhat Airport

Eco-tourism offers an opportunity to experience India’s natural beauty while supporting conservation and responsible travel practices. This World Environment Day, these destinations serve as a reminder that exploring nature and protecting it can go hand in hand.