Our travel stories | Your travel clues
Havelis of Shekhawati, in their own rights, are no less in aesthetics than the grand forts and palaces of Rajasthan. However, these Havelis are in a state of despair. They are mostly forgotten, except a handful tourists. The government needs to intervene. Here are my thoughts on the subject.
Even while knowing of the demerits of over-tourism, authorities often find it difficult to discourage tourists from visiting a place. However, the travellers can themselves solve this problem. In this article, I’m sharing my views on the subject, and suggesting 12 ways of Responsible Travel.
Not managed well, tourism can irreparably damage the local environment, its socio-economic dynamics and cultural identities. However, the government can make a positive difference through policies and interventions to promote sustainable tourism.
The only hills-and-water fort in Rajasthan, Gagron was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 as one of the six “Hill forts of Rajasthan”. The other five forts are in Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Jodhpur, Jaipur and Jaisalmer, all magnificent ones. However, Gagron Fort is the least visited of them all. This article is an effort to bring the grandeur of the fort to you.
What is your first choice for lodging while travelling? Mine is a cute little homestay near a river or in the woods. These days travellers have plethora of options- from luxury hotels to happening hostels to peaceful homestays. It’s what one chooses for lodging can make a lot of difference to their travel experience.
The Pink City Rickshaw Company is a one-of-its-kind social enterprise operating in the space of community tourism. While on one hand it provides tourists a unique experience, on the other, it gives its women drivers an aspirational income they would never have dreamt of otherwise. PCRC is indeed a model of community tourism like no other, a perfect example of sustainable tourism.
One of the most majestic animals to still roam the surface of earth is the Rhinoceros, an endangered species. And one of their largest homes is the Kaziranga National Park in Assam. This makes it one of the most important National Parks in the world. The “UNESCO World Heritage Site” tag is just an official proof of it.
Then known as “Thailand-Burma Railway”, it was later called the “Death Railway”. Construction of the railway track between Ban Pong in Thailand and Thanbyuzayat in Burma was/ is a dark chapter in the history of mankind. More than 1 hundred thousand labourers perished during its construction. A visit to the site changed my travel perspective.
Sustainable tourism is the order of the day. It’s no longer an option, or just a desirable thing. It’s a compulsion that we must adhere to. From spread of knowledge and information, to trade and commerce, travel has enabled mankind to progress through the history. However, travel has to become sustainable in order to keep the world a livable place.
I have never found out a reason for anything I love; I just love them. Same with travel. Travel for me is not a hobby, it’s not only a passion, and it’s not limited to be an experience. Travel is the essence of life.