Mumbai: Eco‑tourism has emerged as one of the fastest‑growing segments of India’s travel economy, with the India Tourism Data Compendium 2025 noting a sharp rise in demand for sustainable travel experiences. Hotels adopting eco‑certification, national parks implementing stricter conservation practices and communities engaging directly with visitors have all contributed to this momentum. The figures reflect a shift in traveller preferences, with both domestic and international tourists increasingly seeking experiences that minimise environmental impact while supporting local livelihoods.
Officials highlight that eco‑tourism projects in states such as Kerala, Sikkim, Madhya Pradesh and Meghalaya have seen strong growth. In Kerala, backwater resorts have introduced renewable energy systems and waste‑management programmes, while homestays in Wayanad promote organic farming and nature‑based activities.
In Sikkim, the state’s long‑standing commitment to organic agriculture has been integrated into tourism, with visitors encouraged to participate in farm stays and community projects. Madhya Pradesh has expanded eco‑tourism in its tiger reserves, introducing regulated safari bookings and eco‑friendly lodges. Meghalaya’s promotion of living root bridges and community‑run trekking routes has drawn younger travellers keen on sustainable adventure.
Local communities have benefited directly from these initiatives. In Assam’s Kaziranga National Park, villagers involved in eco‑tourism projects have reported higher incomes from guiding, handicrafts and hospitality, noting that tourism has provided livelihoods while encouraging environmental protection. In Uttarakhand, community‑based trekking projects have created jobs for young people while reducing pressure on fragile ecosystems. In Ladakh, eco‑friendly homestays have allowed families to earn additional income while preserving traditional architecture and culture.
Industry leaders point out that eco‑tourism reflects changing preferences among travellers. They observe that people increasingly seek experiences that connect them with nature and communities rather than mass tourism. Eco‑tourism is seen as offering authenticity and sustainability, which explains its rapid growth.
The economic impact of eco‑tourism is visible across sectors. Hotels and resorts adopting eco‑certification report higher occupancy rates, while local businesses supplying organic produce and handicrafts benefit from increased demand. In Kerala, farmers providing organic food to eco‑resorts have reported higher incomes. In Meghalaya, artisans producing bamboo crafts have seen increased sales to tourists seeking sustainable souvenirs.
Yet challenges persist. Conservationists warn that eco‑tourism risks sliding into a hollow marketing slogan unless backed by genuine sustainability. They argue that without strict enforcement of standards, the sector’s credibility could erode rapidly. Fragile ecosystems – from Himalayan trekking corridors to coastal mangroves – continue to grapple with inadequate waste management and unchecked visitor flows, underscoring the urgent need for discipline and accountability.
The government has pledged to strengthen eco‑tourism through stricter certification, community participation and infrastructure investment. Initiatives include eco‑friendly facilities at national parks, renewable energy adoption in resorts and training programmes for local communities. Officials emphasise that the aim is not just to increase numbers but to ensure that tourism benefits local communities while preserving natural heritage. They underline that eco‑tourism must balance growth with conservation.
Case studies highlight the potential of eco‑tourism to drive regional development. In Sikkim, farm stays have encouraged visitors to engage with organic agriculture, creating new markets for local produce. In Madhya Pradesh, eco‑lodges near tiger reserves have created jobs while supporting conservation. In Meghalaya, community‑run trekking routes have empowered villagers to manage tourism sustainably.
Analysts note that eco‑tourism reflects broader social changes. Travel is increasingly seen as a form of self‑expression and responsibility, with younger travellers particularly conscious of environmental impact. Social media has amplified this trend, with platforms such as Instagram and YouTube influencing destination choices. Younger travellers are drawn to experiences they can share online while ensuring that their choices remain responsible.
Looking ahead, the compendium concludes that eco‑tourism will remain a key driver of growth in India’s travel economy. With global interest in sustainable travel expected to rise, India is well positioned to consolidate its gains if infrastructure and policy support continue. For businesses, policymakers and communities alike, the message is clear – eco‑tourism is not only expanding in scale but also diversifying in nature, laying the foundation for sustained growth in the years ahead.
