Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Ladakh

The Responsible Wilderness Trekking course spans two months, focusing on fostering responsible trekking, tours, and training for conscientious young individuals to effectively organize and lead such programs. Participants will delve into the principles of responsible and sustainable tourism, with a particular emphasis on the Himalayan and Trans-Himalayan regions. They will develop strategies to address challenges stemming from mass tourism and will receive comprehensive instruction on inclusive tourism, aiming to extend the benefits of the travel economy to rural areas that remain remote and underprivileged.

Human interference and the effects of global climate change have profoundly impacted the Himalayas, especially with the accelerated warming observed at higher elevations. Under the current trajectory, the Himalayan region is projected to undergo significant glacial retreat, resulting in diminished precipitation, rising temperatures, and the loss of glacier-fed water sources vital for local villages.

The Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), tackles this challenge head-on through its Ecology and Ice Stupa program. Geared towards emerging leaders, this course aims to empower them with the skills needed to implement sustainable water storage and management solutions in the vulnerable trans-Himalayan communities of Ladakh. By bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary innovations, HIAL seeks to ensure the resilience and continuity of Ladakhi livelihoods amidst changing environmental conditions.