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The tourism boom in Nepal, as in other
countries, has had a mixed blessing. 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
forest 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 |
