Himachal Would Lose Its Beauty if We Do Not Stop Our Irresponsible Travel Habits

Himachal Pradesh is one of the most visited Indian state and yet one of the most neglected in terms of environment and sustainability. Mass Tourism has led to a decline in the natural beauty of the state. It is a concern overlooked easily by the people who live there and people travelling there to admire its beauty.

Photo of Himachal Would Lose Its Beauty if We Do Not Stop Our Irresponsible Travel Habits 1/4 by Shivangi Johri — Once upon a time a river flowed from here

Has it ever occurred to you what would the place looks like if you visit again in 10 or 20 years? Has it ever happened to you that what legacy are we going to leave for future generations? Has the thought ever crossed your mind that the next generation would ever be able to enjoy the same waterfall you enjoyed once?

Are we responsible for destroying our Himachal Pradesh?

Our irresponsible and unsustainable travel habits lead to the exploitation of tourist destinations. Himachal Pradesh is famous for its majestic landscapes, beautiful towns, idyllic pastures, adventure activities like skiing, hiking, trekking and climbing. Being a tourist destination boosts the economy, but it has its own harms. It imposes a burden on the infrastructure, water supply, transport, waste disposal systems which ultimately decline the quality of life for locals.

Photo of Himachal Would Lose Its Beauty if We Do Not Stop Our Irresponsible Travel Habits 2/4 by Shivangi Johri — Tourist Spot turned to garbage dump by travellers

Searching waterfall, Oops! it's gone

The famous waterfalls in Himachal are getting dried up, and that day is not far away that there will be none left. The Bhagsunag waterfall in upper Dharamshala dried up. The livelihoods of locals depend on the famous destinations, and if this continues, it will be a huge disappointment not only for travellers but also for locals.

Have we realized what travel habits are harmful to Himachal?

There are many things which are causing Himachal to lose its beauty due to climate change, pollution, improper waste management etc. Some of which are-

1. Mass tourism or overcrowding

There have been multiple cases of overcrowding in the last few years in Himachal Pradesh when locals have faced traffic jams on roads or water crisis etc.

2. Throwing trash anywhere

Yes! Don't be surprised. Some of us still do this. How do you feel when you see a floating water bottle or a piece of cloth or a diaper in the river? How do you feel when a perfect landscape is ruined by the dump of garbage?

3. Using plastics irresponsibly

Even though we all know the harm plastics does to our environment, still we use plastics irresponsibly. Plastic water bottles, plastic bags for shopping, travel packs with plastic bottles can be managed with better alternates, but we use them without thinking.

4. Using personal vehicle everywhere

Even though public transport is available, we opt for a personal vehicle. This lead to traffic jams and more pollution in the serene towns of Himachal.

"Underbridge is not a dumpster but who will make us understand"

It is disheartening and alarming at the same time to see our favourite destinations are getting destroyed because of us only. Buying water bottles while travelling whenever you feel necessary is ok but throwing them away anywhere is not acceptable. Be responsible and manage your waste properly while travelling.

Photo of Himachal Would Lose Its Beauty if We Do Not Stop Our Irresponsible Travel Habits 3/4 by Shivangi Johri — Underbridge or dumpster

What changes can help us sustaining the beauty and resources of Himachal?

With this pandemic, we all have seen how nature has taken its toll on us. If we do not understand the signs of mother nature and start improving our travel habits, then all our favourite destinations will lose their beauty and resources. We must travel responsibly and sustainably.

1. Try living with fewer plastics. It won't harm you but might do your bit to save mother nature.

2. Leave your tracks, not your trash.

3. Public transportation is meant to be used by the public, so no harm in trying. It will save you money as well.

4. Do not indulge in animal entertainment. Only you can stop animal cruelty. No consumer, no product applies to everything.

5. Slow travel and opting for cycling over other modes of transportation can make you fit and maintain the serenity of the place with less air and noise pollution.

6. Shop local, opt for sustainable stays, and be considerate

The change will not come overnight, but every little effort counts. So next time you are travelling, make sure you travel responsibly. Be thankful for mother nature, be considerate towards local, be careful of your actions and be kind to wildlife. Enjoy the travel and do your bit towards nature.