ATOAI has urged governments to introduce scientific, destination-specific regulations for high-volume trekking, citing overcrowding, environmental degradation, and safety concerns. The association says carrying-capacity-based permits, safety standards, and stronger operator accountability can help protect fragile mountain destinations while sustaining adventure tourism and local livelihoods.
The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) has released a policy brief calling for a responsible regulatory framework for high-volume, low-cost trekking models that it says are placing increasing pressure on India’s fragile mountain ecosystems.
The association said adventure tourism is among India’s fastest-growing tourism sectors and provides important livelihoods for mountain communities. However, the absence of destination-specific regulations has contributed to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and safety concerns.
ATOAI pointed to the closure of Stok Kangri, restrictions on the Chadar Trek and Nanda Devi Sanctuary, and the Uttarakhand High Court’s ban on ‘bugyal camping’ as examples of destinations facing pressure beyond their ecological limits. It said such situations can eventually result in blanket bans affecting the wider industry.
Policy measures proposed
ATOAI’s policy brief recommends carrying-capacity-based permit systems, mandatory guide-to-trekker ratios, minimum safety standards, enhanced emergency preparedness, and stronger accountability for trek operators.
The association has called on State Governments and Union Territories to begin consultations with ATOAI and other stakeholders to develop practical, evidence-based regulations aimed at protecting fragile destinations while supporting local livelihoods.
Tejbir Singh Anand, President, ATOAI, said, “Adventure tourism has an extraordinary opportunity to become one of the strongest and most sustainable pillars of India’s tourism future. Our mountains, forests and great outdoors are a national treasure, while the communities living in these destinations are an integral part of the adventure tourism ecosystem.
“With thoughtful planning, responsible practices and collaboration between governments, operators, local communities and other stakeholders, we can create an environment where adventure tourism continues to grow while enhancing safety, protecting our natural heritage and creating meaningful livelihoods.”
Anand added, “India has the opportunity to set a global benchmark for responsible adventure tourism by adopting a balanced, science-based and destination-specific approach. By working together, we can unlock the full potential of trekking and other adventure activities, ensuring that our destinations remain vibrant, safe and sustainable for generations to come.”
ATOAI reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Ministry of Tourism, State Tourism Departments, State Governments, Union Territories, and other stakeholders to develop a safe, sustainable, and globally respected adventure tourism ecosystem.
Rahul Bhadana is a digital editor at TravTalk with experience spanning multiple content niches, with a strong focus on travel trade journalism and digital publishing. A graduate of Delhi University, his work covers editorial writing, content strategy and platform-led storytelling, supporting TravTalk’s digital growth and industry engagement. A technology enthusiast, he enjoys films, poetry and exploring new ideas across media and culture.