Koksar Village in Himachal Pradesh tackles plastic waste through innovative eco-tourism, setting a powerful example for sustainable travel and cultural preservation.
Koksar, a small village in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, with a population of just 650, is facing a growing challenge of plastic waste—a concern previously unheard of in this remote high-altitude region.
Located just five kilometers from the Atal Tunnel, Koksar is a sought-after destination for trekking, mountaineering, and a range of adventure sports. Despite its stunning natural beauty, the village has seen an alarming rise in plastic waste, including discarded wrappers from snacks, bottles, and other non-biodegradable materials.
In response, the Koksar Panchayat has taken proactive measures to address the issue by promoting eco-friendly solutions, such as reducing plastic usage and minimizing food and water wastage. As part of its efforts to preserve the local heritage while fostering sustainable tourism, the Koksar Panchayat Tourism Development Committee (TDC) has launched the Homestay Guidelines under the People-Owned and People-Governed Tourism (POPGT) project.
The guidelines aim to balance the influx of tourists with the need for environmental responsibility. Tourists visiting Koksar and its neighboring villages, including Dimpuk, Ramthang, and Telign, are reminded to respect local traditions, reduce waste, and engage with the environment in a sustainable manner. These villages collectively host around 600 to 700 tourists, with approximately 6,000 to 7,000 visitors arriving daily. To tackle the mounting waste, the Panchayat organizes regular waste collection, with six small tempos of waste being sent out every three days, highlighting the growing waste management crisis in the region.
Supported by People for Himalayan Development (PHD), this initiative empowers local homestay owners and guides tourists towards responsible practices. The guidelines foster a culture of mutual respect between visitors and the community, ensuring a sustainable tourism model that celebrates Lahauli culture while protecting the land for future generations.
Sachin Mirupa, Pradhan of the Koksar Panchayat Tourism Development Committee, emphasized that hospitality is not just a service but an integral part of life in Lahaul. He expressed hope that the new guidelines would help maintain the area’s cleanliness and cultural integrity, ensuring that both locals and tourists alike honor the traditions of the region.
Sandeep Minhas of People for Himalayan Development highlighted that these guidelines promote sustainability by encouraging responsible tourism practices, reducing energy waste, and promoting the consumption of local food instead of packaged snacks. Remarkably, homestays in the region maintain full occupancy even during the winter months, demonstrating the potential of sustainable tourism in preserving both culture and environment.
The post Koksar Village Fights Plastic Waste with Innovative Eco-Tourism, Leading the Way for Sustainable Travel in Himachal Pradesh appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
