December is usually a much-anticipated season for travellers, with many blocking their calendars for a special vacation at the end of the year. In 2024, the season’s first snowfall arrived early, covering Shimla and its surrounding areas in Himachal Pradesh with snow in early December itself. This was quite unlike last year when snowfall arrived rather late (mid-January) in Shimla.
Climate change experts have linked the shifting patterns of snowfall (early or late) to rising global temperatures, induced by the release of harmful greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere. A recent World Meteorological Organization (WMO) report noted that 2024 is on track to be the hottest year, with global temperatures reaching 1.5 degrees Celsius.
While we don't have a magic wand to bring down global temperatures overnight, we can certainly take action to limit the drastic climate-related impacts associated with environmental degradation and disruptions in various ecosystems. Travellers, on their part, could play a crucial role in mitigating the pressures associated with tourism and adopt sustainable practices. Those looking to escape to Shimla for a few days could consider the following options to make the most of their travel plans without causing any untoward harm to the environment.
Tips for a Green Traveller
Engaging in sustainable travel requires one to be mindful of all aspects, including luggage, choice of food, selection of hotels and activities. Here are 5 ways you can choose to travel sustainably while having a good time simultaneously.
Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation
Opting for eco-friendly accommodation (eco-friendly homestays, hostels and hotels, or eco-lodges and sustainable resorts) minimises the impact of tourism on the environment. An eco-friendly accommodation typically integrates bio-architecture and renewable energy generation. Apart from the ecological benefits accruing form such a set-up, there are other merits to choosing an eco-friendly accommodation like supporting the local economy via businesses and services offered by local communities.
When in Shimla, you can stay in eco-friendly luxury hotels like The Oberoi Cecil (price range: Rs 15,000 to Rs 24,500), Radisson Hotel Jass Shimla (price range: Rs 9,753 to Rs 19,125) and The Orchid Hotel Shimla (price range: Rs 6,257 to Rs 35,570).*
Alternatively, you can also book eco-friendly homestays for your trip like Sunnymead Estate (available at 7,126 on MakeMyTrip), Meena Bagh Homes (available at price of Rs 3,900 to Rs 32,900 as per the company) and Vatsalyam Home Stay (available at price of Rs 2,400 to Rs 5,500 as per the company).*
Choose Public Transportation
Experiencing a high footfall of tourists every year, Shimla has been earning the dubious distinction of a city grappling with long traffic jams every time there is a tourist season. To reduce the stress on the roads, several experts have suggested a ropeway as a viable alternative. Fewer cars also mean less GHG emissions. Travelling by bus or train could also be less harmful for the environment while being budget-friendly. One can also choose the Kalka-Shimla toy train and enjoy the scenic beauty along the way. The toy train, a major attraction for tourists, traverses through hills and mountains offering dramatic views of surrounding villages even as it makes its way through more than 100 tunnels during the journey.
Promote Local Culture
It is essential to respect local traditions as they are emblematic of the values ethos of a community of people. You can catch a glimpse of Shimla Winter Carnival if you are planning a trip between December and January. The carnival offers local dishes, laser shows and cultural programmes showcasing Shimla's rich cultural heritage through music and dance.
Another way to promote local communities is eating local food using freshly sourced native ingredients. While in Shimla, you can explore local dhabas and homestays where local food is available like Himachali Rasoi, Goofa Ashiana, The Restaurant, Oberoi Cecil and Cafe Simla Times. Locally baked goods are another treat to try. Trishool Barkers, Sita Ram & Sons, Krishna Bakery, Wake and Bake Cafe are some of the bakeries that you can check out. Apart from being budget-friendly, enjoying local cuisine will help you understand the traditions, beliefs and lifestyles of Shimla.
Read More: Himachal Sets Up Green Mobility Committee
Shop from Local Businesses
You can easily contribute to the local economy by purchasing items from local businesses. Explore local haats and markets like the Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Lower Bazaar, Tibetan Market, Himachal Emporium and Ram Bazaar to explore a wider range of products from souvenirs to food to other items.
Pack Less and Enjoy More!
It is important to pack less while travelling. Travelling lighter will not only help you move around the city, especially on foot, but also reduce the chances of disposing of items that may harm the environment - thus supporting sustainable travel. Remembering three Rs (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) while packing helps.
Reduce: Reduce the quantity of clothes/belongings you’re planning to take.
Reuse: Pack things (clothes/utensils) that can be reused again.
Recycle: Consider ways to recycle items after a trip. For instance, glass bottles can be reused as a glass container to store spices/pulses/food ingredients. Avoid taking single-use plastic, such as bottles, bags, disposable glasses and straws that have long-lasting impacts on the environment.
*All prices are as of December 11, 2024 (IST 5.30 pm).
