Responsible Tour Operators, India

A guide to responsible travel in India: Get face-to-face with Incredible India's diverse culture, colours, traditions and rich nature like never before!

The Indian tourism industry is booming, thanks to India's ever-growing economy. India is on the top wish list of places to visit for many travellers. With the rise of star hotels, resorts and home stays with world-class facilities, there is no looking back for the tourism industry. The exhilarating growth of the industry, if properly channelled, can be a boon to the poor. Responsible Tourism, while not an unheard term in India, has a long way to go before it can make a tangible impact. The International Centre for Responsible Tourism, or ICRT's, presence and the innovative Green Circuit concept have contributed to the emergence of many responsible practices. Here are some of the best responsible travel promoters in India.

The Blue Yonder: One of the well-known travel operators and a member of the Green Circuit, they cover the width and breadth of the country. They are proud recipients of two honourable mentions at the Conde Nast Traveller World Savers Awards and a First Choice Responsible Tourism Award at the World Travel Market, London. Apart from reducing poverty and promoting the traditional arts and rituals, they discourage migration of the local community to the cities by proving security to some extent through their local sourcing. 'Rustic Rural Rajasthan', 'Tribal Trails' and 'Kaleidoscopic Road' are some of their interesting village tours that are appealing to the eyes. If none of the package tours interests you, feel free to ask for a customized tour. They arrange tours in Nepal too.

Ecosphere: Offers sustainable tours in and around the Spiti valley. Recipients of many awards and a member of the Green Circuit, they aim at economic empowerment, development and conservation. Their fresh range of organics from the Himalayas might be worth trying. Their eco-travel series includes 'Spiritual Sojourns' and 'Rustic Revelations'. For the adventurous in you, try the 'Adrenalin Inc.'.

Shakti Himalaya: A luxury yet responsible tour operator in the Himalayas. Shakti is the best bet for the fussy travellers accustomed to material comforts. They practice responsible electricity generation, waste disposal, local sourcing and water conservation – the quintessence of responsible tourism. Their village walks and accommodation in the renovated village houses are impressive. There is the famous retreat, 360°Leti to literally get lost in the mountains.

Ecomantra: A sustainable tourism venture promoting eco-holidays. Their motto is that nature is the best and wonderful teacher. Each tour is different and takes you to non-crowded and non-commercial destinations. Their nature workshop is one of its kind with paper recycling, pottery, puppets, tribal arts etc.

Kalypso Adventures: The name doesn't say it all. They offer more than just the adventures; for the faint-hearted, there are cultural and walking tours. Their tours keep an eye on the fragile environment and the lives of the local community. Kayaking in south India seems to be their niche market. However cycling, birding, youth programs and charity challenges are some of their unique tours. It all started in the god's own country Kerala, but their recent expansion caters to your travel needs throughout the country.

The Green Apple Experience: For an authentic south Indian experience. Their aim is to promote responsible tourism as a tool to protect the natural environment and carry on the legacy to invite greater participation. From palaces to home stays to farm stays: you name it, they have it. Temple tours, culinary experience and bullock cart rides are some of their specials. Look no further to 'experience hospitality that is truly Indian'.

Responsible travel is the best way to cherish India's rich cultural heritage and help India fight poverty at the same time. Travel ethically -- respect the environment and culture, never be a litterbug or a graffitist and choose a responsible tour operator to make a difference.