Trekking Responsibly: A long journey of commitments

It’s no secret that the Himalaya has witness noticeable impacts of climate change over the years. From retreating glaciers and melting permafrost, to erratic and disruptive weather patterns, the ‘roof of the world’ is now, ever more than before, vulnerable and threatening to disrupt the lives of millions, from Myanmar in the east to Afghanistan in the west. In Nepal alone, we have had increasing reports of rising air temperatures, increase in summer monsoon, decrease in winter westerlies and snow falls, and disruptions in agriculture productions and clean water sources. Similarly, wildlife that were previously seen only at lower altitudes and warmer climates have been observed higher up the region, threatening the Himalayan eco-system. Likewise, studies have found the migratory patterns of birds across the Great Trans-Himalaya to be getting shorter with severe effects to their breeding season.
At Trekalayan, we are fully aware that the road to a sustainable and responsible tourism is a long journey, as we take on our role as the conservators of the Himalaya. We are committed to ensure that all our treks cause minimal negative impacts to the environment and wildlife, and that we act responsibly towards tourist sites, heritages and local cultures. Within our office, our partners and our team we look for responsible practices and engagements in initiatives to preserve the beautiful and fragile places we visit. Of course, our treks would not be complete without the supports of the local communities and conservation groups along the trekking routes. The pathway to sustainability always begins with the enrichment of the local people who are the real custodians of the tourist sites and wildlife we visit. The Himalaya are not just a source of our business, or another exotic destination to sell. It is foremost our home.