Jun 5, 2025

World Environment Day 2025: 8 eco-tourism places in India for nature lovers

ET Online

Sikkim

Sikkim is India’s first fully organic state and a leader in eco-tourism. From organic farms and sustainable homestays to trekking in the Khangchendzonga National Park (UNESCO-listed), the state offers pristine Himalayan beauty and conscious travel options.

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Thenmala, Kerala

India’s first planned eco-tourism destination, Thenmala is known for its forest trails, tree-top huts, and butterfly safaris. It combines nature, adventure, and art, promoting awareness and conservation in the Western Ghats.

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Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Spiti’s high-altitude cold desert has fragile ecosystems protected by local communities. With solar-powered homestays, organic farming, and wildlife protection efforts, it’s an ideal spot for mindful mountain travel.

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Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

Dubbed the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong practices community-based tourism and promotes cleanliness and sustainability. It offers views of living root bridges, bamboo tree houses, and lush biodiversity.

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Coorg, Karnataka

This hill station, known for its coffee plantations, promotes eco-stays and nature-based experiences like plantation tours, birdwatching, and forest hikes in the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot.

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Sundarbans, West Bengal

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sundarbans mangrove forest supports eco-tourism through boat safaris, community-run lodges, and tiger conservation awareness programs, highlighting the region’s delicate balance between humans and nature.

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Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh

This offbeat valley near Visakhapatnam is known for tribal culture, organic coffee, and lush landscapes. Eco-tourism here is centred around cultural preservation, sustainable agriculture, and green homestays.

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Khonoma, Nagaland

India’s first green village, Khonoma showcases community-led conservation. The villagers banned hunting to protect biodiversity and offer guided treks, cultural immersion, and stays in eco-friendly homes.

Image Source: iStock

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