World Environment Day 2024: Four Natural Hotspots Of India For The Conscious Traveller

Led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), June 5 is observed as the World Environment Day. The main aim is to create awareness about the natural environment and what can be done to preserve it. The theme for this year is 'land restoration, desertification and drought resilience'.

Travel through India's varied landscapes in a sustainable manner to understand about our natural wealth and why the need to enforce environmental conservation.

Western Ghats

The Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri range, stretches along the western coast of India, covering an area of nearly 1,600 km along the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these ghats are endowed with lush rainforests. Home to a wide range of flora and fauna, the Western Ghats are a great spot for outdoor activities like mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking, camping and jungle walks.

Best time to visit: October to March.

Western Himalayas

Spread across Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, this region is home to a variety of wildlife and national parks. One can also  experience a number of adventure activities here, including skiing and paragliding.

Best time to visit: Generally, Ladakh may be visited between mid May and mid September while other places may be visited between October and May. However, accessibility depends on the weather; best to check the latest situation before planning.

Indo-Burma Region

Home to nearly 163 globally endangered species, including the one-horned rhinoceros and the wild Asian water buffalo, the Indo-Burma Region is quite rich in biodiversity. A variety of ecosystems can be found here that support a large number of animals that are restricted to these forests. Go on a jungle safari at Kaziranga National Park of Assam, trek to Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya, go on boat rides along the world's largest river island of Majuli in Assam, etc.

Best time to visit: October to May.

Nicobar Island

Part of the Andaman and Nicobar group of islands, the Great Nicobar Island has been included in UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme. These islands have a rich marine ecosystem including mangroves, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. Aquatic species such as dolphins, whales, turtles, and crocodiles can be found here. But check with the state tourism for permission, etc. before you plan.

Best time to visit: Between October and May.