The tourism boom in Nepal, as in other countries, has had a mixed blessings. It has generated a sizeable share of Nepali’s foreign currency revenue but few people in the tourist destinations have experienced an improvement in their standard of living.
In fact, for many communities, the influence of visitors has come at a considerable cost. In numerous places, trekking groups have left littered trails and degraded forests in their wake. Against this alarming backdrop, the practice of eco-tourism has been gaining increased momentum – both in Nepal and around the World. This alternative type of tourism seeks not only to preserve the environment and culture of a tourist destination but also to be of benefit to the local population. By fostering environmental awareness, both among locals & visitors, and by linking tourism to social and economic development, it is possible to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of an area through the promotion of sustainable tourism. This not only enhances the positive experience of those on holiday it also helps to increase the standard of living of the local residents.
- Respect local traditions, customs, values, and sentiments to help them protect local culture and maintain local pride.
- Respect privacy when taking photographs
- Respect holy places
- Refrain from giving money to children as it encourages begging
- Respect for the local etiquette earns you respect
- Let the Himalayas change you - Do not change them
- Protect the natural environment
- Leave the campsite cleaner than you found it
- Limit deforestation - make no open fires Burn dry paper and packets in a safe place
- Keep local water clean and avoid using pollutants
- Plants should be left to flourish in their natural environment