South India heritage walking tour

Planet

Carbon Reduction

1. We have made conscious efforts to reduce internal flights by promoting overlanding—traveling slowly over land by train or road. This approach aligns with our belief in responsible and immersive travel. Rail journeys and scenic drives not only help minimize the carbon footprint but also allow travelers to experience the changing landscapes, meet local communities, and discover lesser-known gems along the way. By choosing overland routes wherever feasible, we ensure the journey itself becomes a memorable and meaningful part of the experience.
2. Our travel partner, CGH Earth demonstrates a strong commitment to reducing its carbon footprint through various sustainable practices across its properties. While specific details about the use of renewable energy sources like solar or wind power are not provided, the group emphasizes eco-friendly initiatives such as eliminating single-use plastics, sourcing ingredients locally to minimize transportation emissions, and integrating environmental conservation into their operations.
For instance, at the Eighth Bastion hotel in Fort Kochi, CGH Earth has replaced approximately 12,000 plastic water bottles annually with reusable glass bottles filled with RO-treated water. Additionally, toiletries are provided in earthenware containers to further reduce plastic usage.
These efforts reflect CGH Earth's dedication to responsible tourism and environmental stewardship, aiming to create immersive and sustainable experiences for their guests.
3. We work with properties that prioritize locally sourced and seasonal produce, reducing food miles and supporting regional farmers and communities. Many of our partner accommodations—especially those like CGH Earth—have farm-to-table dining philosophies, where meals are crafted using ingredients grown on-site or sourced from nearby villages. This not only ensures freshness and flavor but also minimizes the environmental impact.
We select accommodations that demonstrate conscious choices in procurement—favoring organic, local, and ethical supplies wherever possible.

Environment and Wildlife

1. The trip includes accommodations that actively engage in restoring nature around their properties. For instance, CGH Earth’s Coconut Lagoon in Kumarakom is situated amidst the backwaters and emphasizes environmental conservation. The resort has reassembled traditional Kerala homes, preserving architectural heritage, and is committed to maintaining the delicate ecosystem of the Vembanad Lake region.
2. The trip actively contributes to nature recovery and community-based conservation in multiple ways. In Thekkady, guests enter Periyar National Park, with entrance fees included in the cost, directly supporting the preservation of this vital ecosystem. All nature-based experiences—such as the jungle walk or boat safari—are led by trained local naturalists, creating employment and ensuring deep-rooted knowledge guides the journey.

People

Local Economy

8 out of 9 hotels on this trip are locally owned and operated chains with strong roots in sustainability, community engagement, and cultural preservation.
We work exclusively with local guides and community members across all destinations, whether it’s a heritage tour, temple visit, or culinary experience. Our accommodations—share our ethos of local empowerment and environmental stewardship.
Throughout the trip, guests meet local artisans, visit their workshops, and are encouraged to support traditional crafts by purchasing souvenirs directly from them. Cultural performances like Kalaripayattu in Kochi feature local artists, ensuring both heritage preservation and income for the community. Every aspect of the journey is designed to support sustainable tourism and nature recovery while offering guests an immersive, meaningful experience

Employment, Inclusivity and Diversity

100% of the people we and our operating partners employ are from within India. This includes our drivers, guides, local hosts, and partners. For experience-based activities, we exclusively engage individuals from the local community—ensuring authentic interactions while directly supporting regional livelihoods.
This trip is LGBTQ+ friendly. We welcome everyone, regardless of gender, sexuality, or race, ensuring a respectful and inclusive environment throughout the journey. All guests are treated with equal respect and care.