Maintaining Sustainable Community Living in the Himalayan Mountain Base
Village Ways Responsible Tourism Thrives in Binsar Amidst Pandemic Challenges
In the heart of Uttarakhand, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, lies the picturesque village of Binsar. Here, Village Ways Responsible Tourism continues to be a vital initiative, promoting sustainable village tourism and combating outmigration to create local livelihoods.
Founded in 2004 by Manisha and others, Village Ways has been instrumental in developing responsible tourism enterprises not only in Binsar but also in various regions across India and Nepal. The enterprise's primary focus is on preserving local cultures and economies, offering authentic rural experiences that are less commercialised.
During the pandemic, Village Ways has shown remarkable adaptability. Embracing the digital age, they have introduced "virtual tours" offered online through platforms like Zoom. This innovative move has not only allowed them to maintain engagement with tourists but also expand their market reach and raise awareness about responsible tourism practices remotely.
The first virtual tour took place in Almora, Uttarakhand, last weekend, with 70 guests. Despite limited data on virtual tour development after 2023, it is clear that this shift has played a crucial role in ensuring the continuation of Village Ways' mission, even amidst travel restrictions.
In Binsar, tourism contributes to 14% of the village's income. By supporting local economies, Village Ways has turned traditional livelihoods into tourism products, offering a range of experiences including accommodation, food, beverage, guide services, and a marketplace for local art and crafts to tourists.
The enterprise works closely with village communities to create Community-Owned Village Tourism Enterprises (VTEs), ensuring that the income generated through tourism does not displace traditional livelihoods or create dependency. This approach has been successful, providing additional income for villages and creating economic opportunities, reducing the need for out-migration.
Village Ways' impact extends beyond Binsar. They have led impact studies tracking the economic benefits of tourism in these communities and provided training to ensure sustainable operations. Their collaboration with UK marketing teams further connects local enterprises to global markets, enhancing economic resilience in the region.
In 2025, Binsar remains a popular destination for nature-based and rural tourism, with activities like trekking, wildlife viewing, and cultural immersion aligning well with the responsible tourism model promoted by Village Ways. Accommodations range from eco camps to homestays, many potentially linked to responsible tourism practices, supporting local livelihoods directly.
The Advisory Council, responsible for ensuring Village Ways adheres to its founding principles and social objectives defined in its Charter, is chaired by individuals invited by the Founders of Village Ways. The Partnership also collaborates with the travel industry and national/international development agencies to further its mission.
In summary, Village Ways Responsible Tourism in Binsar actively fosters sustainable tourism through community empowerment, has adapted to pandemic challenges via virtual tours, and continues to have a positive economic and cultural impact on the local villages in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary region.
A short edited video of the virtual tour experience is available, offering a glimpse into this innovative approach to responsible tourism. For more information, visit Village Ways' website.
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- In the Binsar village, Village Ways Responsible Tourism encourages sustainable local economies through eco-friendly tourism ventures, thereby combating out-migration and fostering livelihoods.
- By 2024, Village Ways had expanded its responsible tourism initiatives beyond Binsar, reaching various regions in India and Nepal, promoting authentic rural experiences.
- During the pandemic, to cater to tourism restrictions, Village Ways introduced "virtual tours" to engage tourists and increase their market reach, raising awareness about responsible tourism practices.
- Despite the rise of casino-and-gambling destinations, the tourism industry in Binsar continues to thrive, driven by Village Ways' responsible approach, which prioritizes sustainable lifestyles for both tourists and locals.
- Future travelers roaming Binsar will find an array of accommodations, such as eco camps and homestays, that support local livelihoods and align with Village Ways' responsible tourism model.
- Village Ways is committed to ensuring responsible gambling within its enterprise, advocating for responsible-gambling practices and educating its patrons on the importance of balanced gaming.
