Destination Ladakh
A podcast by Zero Waste Ladakh
December 2024
A podcast that explores tourism in the High Himalayas from an environmental perspective and what tourists can do to travel more sustainably. Each episode looks at one environmental issue and how tourism is exacerbating the problem. If you care about the mountains, if you are travelling to the Himalayas or if you would like to know more about the local communities, this is the podcast for you.
Episode 01: Tourism Insights
What are some things about this top tourist destination of India that are not commonly known? What is the scale of the tourism industry here? What are the downsides of a tourism-based economy? How has tourism impacted the environment and the local communities? Join us in the first episode as we analyse tourism in the High Himalayas.
Episode 02: Water Problem
How does climate change affect the water situation of Ladakh? How did local communities source water traditionally and what are the changes in their patterns of water use? As flush toilets become common, what is the situation with sewage? What can tourists do to be responsible given the complex water situation? Catch this episode as we discuss the water problem in the High Himalayas.
Episode 03: Bottled Water
How serious is the problem of plastic bottle waste in Ladakh? When and why did bottled water turn into a widespread phenomenon? What are the alternatives to packaged drinking water? Where do locals source their drinking water? How can tourists find local sources of drinking water? Tune in to this episode for an insightful conversation on drinking water and the problem of plastic bottles in Ladakh.
Episode 04: Waste Crisis
What factors make the waste situation challenging? How do the remote places where there are no waste management facilities deal with their waste? How is tourism contributing to waste generation? As beneficiaries of the surge in tourism, where do tourism businesses stand on the waste issue? What can tourists do to reduce their waste footprint in Ladakh? Listen in as we unpack the waste crisis in this episode.
Episode 05: Mindful Tourism
What are the typical tourism activities in Ladakh? Why has the nature of tourism changed in recent decades? How do tourists treat the place and the local communities? What are the eco-friendly options for accommodation? What activities would constitute an authentic experience of Ladakh? Join the conversation about how we can practice mindful tourism in the High Himalayas in this episode.
About the Podcast
The Himalayas are an incredible natural heritage. The geological and ecological significance of these mountains is unquestionable. Stretching across multiple countries, they are a vital source of freshwater for millions, a sanctuary for unique biodiversity, and a region rich with ancient traditions and wisdom. Preserving this fragile region is a responsibility we must all shoulder for the sake of the planet and our future.
Ladakh has been welcoming tourists since 1974, when this remote region was connected to the rest of the country. With 2024 being the year that marks the 50th anniversary of tourism, it's a perfect opportunity to reflect on how tourism has shaped this region and if we can sustain tourism with the current practices.
Working at the grassroots, we have had the opportunity to engage with both tourists and local tourism businesses about the environmental issues facing Ladakh. We were inspired to see the care and concern for this region, but the lack of information and awareness around these pressing issues was noticeable.
Destination Ladakh is a podcast that attempts to serve as a general directory of environmental issues that Ladakh is faced with today due to tourism. This podcast only touches the tip of the iceberg. There is a lot more to learn, and if you are visiting specific micro-ecosystems, we encourage that you seek further information before venturing into remote areas or taking the path less travelled.
We hope this podcast serves as a starting point of your journey to learn more about Ladakh and the environmental challenges this region is faced with. We would love to hear what you think about the podcast. If you have a moment to spare, please fill in our Listener Survey to let us know your thoughts. It helps us understand who our listeners are and what awareness programmes to create in future. As always, feel free to reach out to us with any questions, comments or discussions.
References
Articles
Videos
Books
Peter H. Gleick, Bottled and Sold: The Story Behind our Obsession with Bottled Water, Island Press: Washington DC, 2010