Indian Himalayas tour, toy trains and hill stations

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION
Our commitment to offering holidays with a positive impact is exemplified through our innovative approach and our ground-breaking carbon scoring system, a world-first initiative enabling us to meticulously evaluate the environmental footprint of each tailor-made trip. Actively engaging with our suppliers, we encourage their participation in our carbon-scoring survey, fostering collaboration that yields valuable insights into unique carbon scores and identifies areas for sustainability excellence and improvement.

Transparency is paramount, and we extend it to our customers by individually assessing each trip, providing a personalised carbon score for your tailor-made holiday. This empowers you to make informed choices aligned with your values.

The Indian Himalayas Tour offers a unique, environmentally conscious way to explore India, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions by trains and local transport. The journey begins with a scenic train ride through rural Punjab, reducing the carbon footprint of travel compared to flying. The toy train ride to Shimla, a slow, historic mode of transport, further lowers emissions while allowing passengers to enjoy the stunning landscapes. In addition, guests can take part in local experiences, such as cycling through agricultural fields or riding bullock carts, which further promote low-carbon, sustainable transportation options.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE
This trip provides an excellent opportunity to engage with local environments and wildlife through stays at eco-conscious accommodations. At Punjabiyat, located on a working farm, visitors can experience rural life, helping to preserve the local agricultural landscape. The Judge's Court exemplifies sustainable tourism with its focus on self-sufficiency, growing its own fruits and vegetables and using water from a natural mountain spring. Additionally, Chonor House in Dharamshala contributes to the preservation of Tibetan culture and art, supporting local heritage while minimising environmental impact. This journey encourages a deeper understanding of rural communities and their efforts to preserve both culture and nature in the Indian Himalayas.

Ahead of your departure, we ensure you are well-prepared through our pre-travel online 'travel pack.' This comprehensive, paper-free resource acts as your guide, providing essential details and valuable insights for the upcoming adventure. Practical guidelines on mindful packing are included to minimise luggage and reduce overall weight, contributing to lower fuel consumption.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY
We are absolutely committed to the principle of responsible travel, and part of this means ensuring that local communities are at the centre of our supply chain on every facet of our itineraries. To enhance our customers' experiences and foster a deeper understanding of the delicate ecological balance of the regions they visit, our partners primarily employ local guides. These knowledgeable guides possess valuable insights into the land, wildlife, and environment. Punjabiyat Farmstay employs local staff and engages guests in authentic agricultural experiences. Also, on this trip you have the chance to volunteer in the kitchen at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, learn about the Tibetan freedom movement, understand more about the UNESCO listed Shimla railway.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY
Accommodations like Chonor House in Dharamshala highlight the importance of preserving Tibetan culture and heritage. Profits from Chonor House go to the Norbulingka Institute, which supports Tibetan artisans in traditional crafts like woodcarving and thangka painting. The hotel exclusively employs Tibetan staff, ensuring a connection to cultural preservation while fostering inclusivity in the region’s workforce.