Sustainable Travel and Food: A Guide to Exploring Responsibly
Traveling and discovering new culinary delights is one of life’s greatest joys. But as the world faces environmental challenges, responsible choices in how we travel and eat have never been more important. Sustainable travel and food practices help us protect ecosystems. They support local economies and preserve cultural traditions. At the same time, we can still indulge in incredible experiences. Let’s explore how to make your adventures more sustainable, one meal and one journey at a time.
* 1. Choosing Eco-Friendly Travel
Sustainable travel isn’t just about where we go—it’s about how we get there. Here are a few ways to reduce your environmental impact while still enjoying meaningful trips:
– Opt for Green Transport – Whenever possible, use trains, buses, or carpooling instead of flying. Walking or cycling also reduces your carbon footprint while giving you a more immersive experience.
– Stay in Eco-Conscious Accommodations – Support hotels and hostels that use renewable energy. Choose places that reduce waste. Prefer accommodations that invest in community projects.
– Avoid Over-Tourism– Instead of visiting heavily crowded destinations, explore lesser-known but equally beautiful places that gain from responsible tourism.
– Pack Smart & Reduce Waste– Bring reusable bottles, cutlery, and shopping bags. Reduce plastic consumption while on the road.
*2. Eating Sustainably While Traveling
Food is a huge part of travel, but our choices can have a direct impact on the planet. Here’s how to enjoy great food without harming the environment:
– Support Local & Organic Food – Choose restaurants and markets that source ingredients locally. Not only does this reduce carbon emissions from food transportation, but it also supports regional farmers and producers.
– Eat Seasonal & Regional Dishes – Instead of opting for imported foods, explore what’s naturally grown in the destination. Eating seasonally means enjoying fresher, more sustainable meals.
– Reduce Food Waste – Be mindful of portion sizes and leftovers. Many cities now have food-sharing initiatives to help reduce food waste.
– Seek Out Sustainable Seafood – If you love seafood, make sure it’s sourced responsibly. Avoid overfished species and check sustainability certifications when ordering dishes.
*3. Connecting with Local Communities
Sustainable travel is also about ethically supporting people and cultures:
– Dine at Family-Owned Eateries– Skip chain restaurants. Eat at small, independent cafes and food stalls. Support local businesses.
– Learn Traditional Cooking – Join a cooking class with locals to understand the history and sustainability of regional ingredients.
– Respect Local Customs – In some places, certain foods have deep cultural significance—learning about them enhances your travel experience.
– Give Back Through Food & Travel. Consider visiting community-driven projects. They promote sustainable agriculture, fair trade practices, and ethical tourism initiatives.
– Chiang Mai, Thailand – Famous for organic farms and zero-waste cafes, with Eco-tourism initiatives supporting hill tribe communities.
– San Sebastian, Spain – Home to farm-to-table dining and ethical seafood practices, while promoting cultural preservation in Basque cuisine.
– Kyoto, Japan– Offers temples, gardens, and restaurants embracing farm-fresh produce and sustainable dining principles.
– Bali, Indonesia– Leading the way in Eco-friendly hotels, sustainable eateries, and conscious tourism movements.
Final Thoughts-
Sustainable travel and food choices don’t mean sacrificing incredible experiences. They enhance them by helping us appreciate cultures, flavors, and the environment in a deeper way. By making mindful choices, we guarantee future generations can continue to explore the world’s beauty—one delicious dish at a time.
There’s a huge shift in how the world views Saudi Arabia. The oil-rich nation is now opening its doors to the world and is becoming one of the most tourist-friendly nations in the world. So, tourists should make use of this opportunity to explore one of the most stunning cities in Saudi Arabia – Riyadh. There are many places to see and things to do in Riyadh that you won’t find anywhere else and will leave you richer with amazing experiences. Plan an elaborate tour of Saudi Arabia, allocating at least 2 days for Riyadh.
How to Visit Riyadh?
The easiest way to reach Riyadh in Saudi Arabia is by applying for an eVisa. This electronic visa is approved within a day and allows you to explore the country for tourism and leisure purposes. However, you must check suitability beforehand as over 60 countries are listed as eligible. For example, getting a Saudi visa for UAE residents is simpler than for Indians. So, you will be asked to submit the documents based on nationality and duration. Also, the airline system of Saudi Arabia is well-connected with major cities.
2 Days in Riyadh Itinerary
Here’s how you can spend 2 days in Riyadh:
Day 1
A Sunrise Like No Other
Sun rays on Edge of the World, a natural landmark and popular tourist destination near Riyadh -Saudi Arabia.
There’s a spectacular place outside Riyadh called Edge of the World. It is open only during the weekends, so make sure to plan accordingly. Book a car or join a tour and hike up to this fantastic place that is 1.5 hours away from Riyadh. Though you have to get up early and take a treacherous path, the views of the sunset are worth the effort. There are many activities in Riyadh like this that will help you enjoy your trip.
Start Your Historical Journey
The Al Masmak Fortress is one of the most significant sites in Saudi Arabia’s victory. It was from here that the unification of the provinces happened after King Abdulaziz won the fort in 1905. This was the beginning of the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The fortress is completely made from mud and is now home to a museum where many wonderful and important historical artifacts and relics are kept on display.
You should also plan a visit to Tauraif and Diriyah districts. Both have a lot of historical significance, and you can also check out the old architecture that some buildings have still preserved. The Diriyah district was once home to the royal family, so many buildings here still retain traditional architecture.
Time for a Grand Lunch
Ramadan Iftar Buffet
All this exploration will make you hungry, so be sure to try a local restaurant to feast on the most authentic Arabian delights like Mandi, which is a rice dish served with meat that has been slow-cooked to succulent tenderness. Kabsa is another rice and meat dish that is quite different from Mandi. This is a lot more robust and spicier. These dishes are served on large platters, so you can share them with family and friends.
History Lessons Continue Post Lunch
Learn more about the great King Abdulaziz by heading to the King Abdulaziz Historical Center. Many tourists who wonder what to do and see in Riyadh, first head to this culturally significant place. In the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, there is also Murabba Palace, which was the first structure made outside the border of the old city. There’s much to see here. Also in the center are the National Museum of Saudi Arabia and King Abdul Abdulaziz Museum, where you will learn more about the history and culture of this great country. The King Abdulaziz Historical Center closes at 5 pm, so head here straight after lunch.
Balmy Evening at Al-Burari Quarter
This region is home to some beautiful, old mud-brick homes that will make you feel like you have traveled back in time. This is quite a charming place, and one can sit around and enjoy the wonderful sights of the buildings and the people. If you are hungry, some restaurants and cafes serve authentic and tasty Arabian cuisine. You can have a nice meal in any of these places.
Day 2
Start Your Day at the Rock Park
Ancient cave paintings/rock art in Ha’il Province in Saudi Arabia (world heritage site)
For your second day in Riyadh, start your journey after breakfast at your hotel or any of the amazing local joints. Plan a visit to the Rock Park. This is quite a unique place where you can relax, take a walk through lush greenery, enjoy a picnic, play football on the pitches, get some exercise at the obstacles, frames, and playground equipment, or simply sit and people-watch as the park attracts people from the nearby embassies. You can also catch awesome views of Wadi Hanifa Valley, which is nearby.
Shopping Excursion
Riyadh is home to some of the most amazing shopping malls in the country. Apart from the best brands in the world, you will also find many wonderful local brands selling amazing Arabian clothes and designs. The Riyadh Gallery Mall is a favorite amongst all tourists because, apart from retail stores, the mall is also home to an amusement park. Hayat Mall is another popular mall that you can check out. Both malls have awesome food courts full of fast-food joints, restaurants, and cafes; you should grab lunch right here.
Meet Your Favourite Animals at the Riyadh Zoo
If you have kids with you on your Saudi Arabia tour, make sure you go to the Riyadh Zoo. Try to visit this place later in the day as there are many open-air places here, so it is much cooler for you. In the zoo, you have to ride the train for a 20-minute ride as it takes you around this massive place. There are more than 1500 animals here that your kids will love to see. There are also many shows where you can interact with the animals and have a great time.
Grab Dinner & Experience Culture at Ithra
If you have not eaten snacks at the Riyadh Zoo, you can check out some good local restaurants and enjoy a good dinner. Then, ready yourself for a great cultural experience. One of the best things to do in Riyadh at night is catching an event at Ithra, also known as King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture. Many events are happening here throughout the year, and you can get a superb experience enjoying a show on your last night in Riyadh.
Conclusion
Use the above information to make your itinerary for 2 days in Riyadh and have a great time in this great city. Riyadh is fast becoming one of the most visited cities in the Middle East, so now is a great time to check it out before it becomes a crowded place.
Tucked amidst the serene scenic vista of the Himalayas, the pilgrimages of Hindu Char Dham Yatra holds immense significance in Hinduism and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Embarking on this holy Yatra is a pious journey to meet your inner self where the holy pedestals are driven by spirituality and devotion.
The four holy shrines of this auspicious Hindu Char Dham Yatra established in four different directions of Uttarakhand and dedicated to different gods and goddesses draw millions of devotees from all around the globe. However, this is not the only charm of this spiritual Yatra as the spellbinding views of the majestic Himalayas, gorgeous waterfalls, rivers, meadows, valleys, and other beautifying features of nature make this Yatra more exciting.
Explore the Hindu Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand
Yamunotri Dham
This spiritual journey commences from Yamunotri, a temple dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. This immensely religious site of Uttarakhand is located at a height of almost 3293 meters above sea level and is established in the Uttarkashi district. The temple is encircled by gorgeous mountains on all sides and lies in the proximity of the Indian and China border.
Those who are burdened with stress and want to spend some time in a serene ambiance shall visit this place at least once in their lifetime. If you are also planning to explore this sacred site then must plan it between May and October as the temple is open for six months a year only.
Other Attraction: There is a hot water spring near the temple where the pilgrims cook Prasad (rice and potatoes) to offer the deity.
Gangotri Dham
Nestled at an altitude of 3100 meters above sea level, Gangotri Dham holds a huge place in the hearts of devotees. Enlisted among the four sacred and significant shrines of Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, Gangotri is one of the holiest places in the country having an intimate connection with the River Ganges.
According to Hindu mythology, it is the same place where Goddess Ganga came down on the earth to wash away the committed sins of King Bhagirath. Hindus believe that visiting this auspicious shrine of Ganga is not only a religious duty but also a spiritual calling.
Kedarnath Dham
The religious city of Badrinath is counted amongst the four holy pedestals of Char Dham Yatra. Elevated at a height of almost 3584 meters above sea level, Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and hence every year thousands of Shiva followers flock to this pilgrimage. Apart from its spiritual significance, the pilgrimage is famous for its intricate architecture too.
There are more than 200 temples established in our country but Kedarnath happens to be one of the most popular ones. Kedarnath Tourism is strengthened by factors like religious zest and natural beauty. One needs to be physically fit and mentally very strong to reach this holy shrine as one has to cover a very challenging trekking trail to reach the shrine.
Badrinath Dham
One of the most eminent destinations of Vishnu worshippers, Badrinath is visited by thousands of tourists from all around the world. The destination is settled amidst the picturesque backdrop of the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges and the destination doesn’t attract tourists only with the spiritual significance but also treats them with recreational activities.
There are several glimmering lakes, sacred ponds, towering peaks, and water bodies that make it a perfect place to explore with your family and friends. Likewise other pilgrimage sites of the circuit, Badrinath is best explored between May and the first week of November. This holy shrine of Lord Badri is elevated at a height of almost 3300 meters above sea level.
Opening Dates of Char Dham Yatra
The opening dates of Yamunotri and Gangotri have been decided and it is finally confirmed that the Yatra will commence on the grand occasion of Akshay Tritiya. The doors of Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines will open on the 14th of May and Badrinath will open on the 18th of May. There is no date decided for Kedarnath as it will be decided on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri.
How to Reach?
You can select any mode of transport to reach the shrines as the pilgrimages are accessible via airways, railways, and roadways. But it is quite difficult to cover the challenging trekking trail falling en route hence Chardham Yatra by Helicopter is one of the most convenient ways to explore these sacred shrines of Hindu Char Dham Yatra.
Accommodations on Char Dham Yatra
Devotees from far across the world embark on this divine journey to tread a religious and righteous life. One who is visiting the shrines of the circuit must not bother about their food climate and accommodation as there are several hotels and resorts established in the region.
Thus, selecting the perfect accommodation completely depends upon your budget and needs and if your pocket doesn’t allow you to stay in hotels or resorts then you can go for GMVN guest houses established by the state government.
Best Time to Visit
The four holy shrines of this circuit are open for a public visit for half a year only as the destinations are located at very huge altitudes and witness unfavorable climatic conditions. During the winter months, the regions receive heavy snowfall which makes it difficult for the pilgrims to climb up the trekking trails.
The temples open with the onset of the summer season i.e. either in the last week of April or in the first week of May and get closed by the very first week of November. So, you can plan your trip between May and October except for the monsoon months (you might get stuck due to landslides).
Travel Tips
There are certain tips and tricks that you need to keep in mind when you plan to embark on this auspicious journey.
The destinations are elevated at huge altitudes and insane locations hence network connectivity becomes a huge obstacle and to stay connected with your family, friends, and relatives you must have good network connectivity. BSNL provides a great network service here.
Carry enough woolen clothes with you to stay fit and healthy as the climate doesn’t remain the same throughout the day. During the daytime, you find leasing and favorable climate and at night you start feeling cold so you must carry woolens along with you.
If you or any of your group members are suffering from any prolonged disease then you must pack your medications in your baggage.
As the pilgrimages are tucked at huge heights hence, you don’t find ATMs everywhere so it is highly recommended to carry enough cash with you so that you feel comfortable in case of emergency.
India’s northernmost state is a picturesque paradise, adorned with vibrant flowers in spring and blankets of snow in winter. This destination attracts all the visitors especially the honeymooners with a plethora of breathtaking views and experiences. Activities range from thrilling skiing in Gulmarg to enjoying the breathtaking mountain lakes, trout fishing in Sonamarg, and enjoying a charming cruise on cedar-panelled houseboats on the Jhelum River.
Among its diverse landscapes, with lakes, mountains, gardens, deserts, and places of worship for Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims, Jammu and Kashmir offers innumerable picturesque cities and towns. The area is a treasure trove of attractions, promising an abundance of things to see and do.
Here, I am going to share with you the top 12 places that I highly recommend and add attractive Jammu and Kashmir tour packages to further enhance your exploration.
Budgam
Located only half an hour south of Srinagar, the state capital and largest city, Budgam is a town with a population of over 15,000. This place is a true reflection of the authentic charm of Kashmir. It offers a harmonious blend of natural wonders, including the vast fields of Yusmarg (details below) and Doodhpathri, nestled in densely forested hills. Historic sites like the 16th century Hari Parbat Fort and delightful gardens like Shalimar Bagh, Chashma Shahi, and Mughal Gardens add to their charm.
Baramulla
Located in the north-west of Kashmir, Baramulla is a small town with a population of about 71,000, whose origins date back to 2306 BC. Apart from the city’s various temples and shrines, notable nearby towns include Parihaspora, the 8th-century capital of Kashmir, famous for its ruins, and Gulmarg, set amidst snow-capped peaks and famous for winter sports. Which includes the world’s highest green golf course. , The surrounding area is a center of attraction for nature lovers, being home to Manasbal Lake (particularly attractive for bird lovers), Uri (an excellent spot for barbecue), Wular Lake (Asia’s largest freshwater lake), and Gulmarg offers attractions such as Biosphere Reserve (an excellent destination for birdwatchers). Hunting birds and observing fauna like musk deer and snow leopard).
Bhaderwah
Nestled in the wooded, river-crossed foothills of the Himalayas, about 1,613 meters above sea level and a six-hour drive from the nearest major city, Jammu, Bhaderwah is a town of 11,000 with an 18th-century fort and several historic temples. Is the city. Its primary attraction lies in its setting, making it an ideal destination for both adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The diverse and stunning landscape of mountains, valleys, and fields has earned it the nickname “Mini Kashmir”. Popular among trekkers, whitewater rafters, mountain bikers, and skiers, Bhaderwah offers a picturesque experience.
Gurez
Situated at an altitude of 2,400 meters (8,000 ft) in the high Himalayas in the far north of Kashmir, Gurez, once a part of the old Silk Road, is one of the most picturesque valleys in the state. Dawar, its central city, hosts the Sufi pilgrimage center of Pir Darwish. In the valley adorned with waterfalls and quaint wooden villages, tourists can engage in trekking, rafting in the clear blue waters of the Neelam River, camping, fishing, and rock climbing. It is important to note that the road leading to Gurez remains closed from November to May due to heavy snowfall (up to 15 feet). Careful planning is required, but Gurez’s breathtaking beauty makes it worth the effort.
Jammu
Founded in the 9th century and home to approximately 576,000 inhabitants, Jammu holds the prestigious title of the holiest city of Kashmir, often referred to as the “City of Temples”. Holy sites include the Mata Vaishno Devi Hindu cave temple, the Peer Baba Muslim Sufi temple, Mahamaya, Peer Kho (also within a cave), and the temples of Raghunath (above) and Ranbireshwar. Other notable attractions include the Old Quarter, the mid-16th century sandstone Bahu Fort, the early 19th century Mubarak Mandi and Amar Mahal palaces, Rani Park in the city center, Peer Mitha, Karbala and the Nandini Wildlife Refuge.
Kishtwar
Located about 6½ hours southwest of Jammu, this town of 14,000 offers more than just a few attractions. Although it houses a 17th-century Sufi saint’s shrine, its real attraction lies in its surroundings, which are surrounded by high, wooded hills, making it an ideal area for hikers, and wildlife lovers (Kishtwar High Altitude National Park The park is home to numerous bird species and mammals such as the Indian muntjac, Himalayan tahr, hangul and snow leopard), as well as rock climbers and mountaineers (peaks as high as 6,000 to 7,000 m). The area is also famous for saffron, both in the nearby Paddar Valley and in the saffron fields. Don’t miss a dip in the local Tattva hot springs!
Kupwara
Nestled among snow-clad mountain ranges in the far north-west (about an hour and a half from Baramulla), Kupwara, which has a population of 70,000, has several notable temples and shrines, including the shrine of the Muslim saint Hazrat Muhammad, Kheer Bhawani, Are included. And Shaloora. Anch Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley of Kashmir, and the nearby beautiful Lolab Valley with its half-a-dozen charming villages is worth a visit.
Ladakh
Located in the northeast corner of Kashmir, bordering Tibet and predominantly Tibetan in culture, Ladakh, once a Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayas, opened for tourism in 1974. It is rich in Buddhist stupas, temples, and holy places, especially in the capital, Leh, and other areas such as Namgyal Tsemo Gompa (above) and Hemis and Thiksey Monastery. Ladakh’s natural wonders are awe-inspiring, including towering snow-capped peaks, spectacular lakes like Pangong, and rivers increasingly popular for whitewater rafting. With activities including trekking, biking, mountain biking, and mountaineering, Ladakh stands out as a world-class adventure travel destination.
Pahalgam
Located just two and a half hours east of Srinagar, this colonial-era hill station stands at an altitude of 2,130 meters and is home to about 6,000 residents. Despite its small size, Pahalgam is well prepared to welcome visitors, particularly because of the Hindu Amarnath Cave Temple, a pilgrimage site that attracts 600,000 devotees every July and August. The surrounding ecotourism and adventure opportunities also contribute to the appeal, offering visitors the chance to wander through the breathtaking grasslands of Baisaran, explore the lush valleys of Aru and Betab, trek on the Kolahoi Glacier and experience whitewater rafting on the Lidder River. Invite to.
Patnitop
Set in the pine and cedar forested hills above the Shivalik Valley, a six-and-a-half-hour drive south of Jammu, Patnitop is home to Hindu temples such as the Nag Temple (Cobra) and Sudh Mahadev. For adventure lovers, the city is famous for paragliding, rappelling, rock climbing, camping, and winter sports. On a less demanding note, visitors can engage in hiking and horseback riding in the local farms and forests, as well as explore natural springs known for their medicinal properties.
Srinagar
Founded in the sixth century, Srinagar, Kashmir’s summer capital and largest city with a population of 1.2 million, is famous for its natural beauty, gardens, beaches, and houseboats. Key attractions include a fort dating back to the city’s founding, its Gondola-like boats, stationary houseboats, and India’s only floating market. Colorful markets and many historic Sufi temples and Muslim mosques add to the charm of the city. Since your entry point into the state is likely to be Srinagar, take advantage of staying for a few days to explore the city’s facilities.
Yusmarg
Located on the Doodhganga River, about an hour’s drive south of Srinagar, this small hill station offers only basic accommodation and lacks distinctive sites. However, it is a worthwhile stop because of its stunning natural environment. Key activities here include hiking and horse riding to local beauty spots such as the stunning Nilnag Lake, the Sang-e-Safed Valley with its eternally frozen lake, and the lush green meadows of Lidder Maid and Haggin. In short, Yusmarg offers a tranquil escape from the busy city life.
Kash Pals
Kash Pals loves to read, write and travel, DIY, Coffee, Music, Photography, Family, Friends and Life.
She believes as you move through this life…you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life- and travel- leaves marks on you.
