Tourism has been considered a major issue by environmentalists so far as environmental damage to natural tourist sites is concerned. Poor planning of tourism schemes and alarming growth of the industry are major factors responsible for the damage. For example, the Dal lake which was twenty five square kilometers five decades ago is only ten (or even less) square kilometers today, presumably due to tourist pressure and improper upkeep and maintenance.

However, there is no limit on number of tourists increase but there is a limit that the environment can tolerate. Mass tourism brings with it hordes of people wanting to make quick money out of it without the much needed sensitivity. Hotels and lodges are constructed near or on the banks of the lakes. Their refuse leftovers and sewer water get into the lake waters polluting it. At times, jetties are constructed for the boats. This construction does not always take into account the wave pattern of the lake and may have adverse effects on the lake as silt may start getting deposited next to it. Country boats are in course of time, replaced by mechanised boats which not only create a lot of sound but also leave traces of oil/diesel/petrol into the waters. Besides insensitive tourists may damage the rare flora and fauna of the ecosystem. All these problems are faced not only by Dal lake (in Jammu & Kashmir) or Chilka lake (in Orissa) but by almost all lakes all around the world.

While it is agreed whole-heartedly that attention should be paid to the development of tourism, it should be in conformity with the environmental requirements and must merge harmoniously with the overall action plan for conservation and development of wetlands.

Tourism and Environment are mutually inter-related. While tourism requires a good natural environment, not to speak of socio-economic environment, for it to flourish, the existence of the latter pre-supposes, a controlled, disciplined and regulated tourism. Environmental degradation can lead to a decline in tourisms, while uncontrolled tourism leads to environmental degradation.

India, with such a diversified physiography, has much to offer by way of tourism; the Himalayas are perfect for skiing, skating, hiking and trekking. India's temples, forts, palaces, sculptures, paintings, monuments and archaeological ruins are over 3000 years old. The temples of Khajuraho, the Sanchi Stupa, the Ajanta and Ellora caves, the forts at Delhi and Agra and many others are the best bet for those interested in history and architecture. For wildlife enthusiasts there are National Parks and Sanctuaries with a variety of wildlife. Similarly India is also rich in beaches and islands. The tourists from colder climates looking for sunshine and warm water beaches constitute one of the largest segments of present day tourism. The pleasure periphery of European and American tourists which ended at the Mediterranean and Caribbean now extends to the beaches of Asia and Pacific. India plays a major role in this regard. The white sand beaches and warm conditions along the Puri-Konark region in the East can draw millions of tourists from freezing Europe. The Andamans and Lakshadweep are ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling. Underwater life can be interesting to naturalists and photographers.

It is no wonder that sand, sea, surf, water and wind togeather with the background in a beach could be fascinating for anyone. It is more so for Indians many of whom living in far interior places would not have seen them before. As far as the domestic tourists are concerned, survey reveal that Beaches are the best attractions followed by temples/pilgrimage centres, historic places, Hill resorts, cities, wildlife etc. The beaches and islands therefore have a special importance for foreign as well as domestic tourists.

All these factors can be taken care of with the help of Ecotourism - Eco-friendly tourism in India and rest of the world. In India Environment tourism or Ecotourism has remained a neglected segment of travel & tourism industry, but its a fact that promoting Ecotours & Eco-tourism will definitly boost the overall tourism industry in the country.

We request all constituents to travel and tourism industry, which includes tourist and travellers too to promote eco friendly tourism and keep environment of various tourist destinations protected so that their future generations too can use them for their tourist activities.