Responsible Tourism Society of India - RTSOI

Responsible Tourism Society of India - RTSOI RTSOI is a non-profit National body for Responsible tourism practices in the tourism industry. It aim
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Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI) has been formed by a group of eminent professionals from the tourism industry, government servants, a Parliamentarian and Environmentalists, under the advice of Ministry of Tourism in 2008 as a non-profit organisation to promote environmentally responsible and sustainable practices in the tourism industry across the country, as a national body. The Soci

ety has been registered under the Societies Act XXI, 1860, under Regn.No.S/61047/2008. All founding members and office bearers contribute their time and efforts with passion, without any financial reward from the Society. RTSOI shall work closely with Central and State Government bodies responsible for Sustainable Tourism, as well as network with like-minded Regional / State players across the country to facilitate and support synergy of policies, initiatives and activities to bring about an ecosystem of responsible tourism. The Society had initiated efforts to spread awareness and educate tourism service providers as well as local govt. officials on the urgent need to ensure perpetually sustainable tourism practices. Towards this objective, the Society launched its series of workshops on “Environmental Law and Tourism” in September 2008 in Delhi and the Sustainable Tourism Criteria of India (STCI) certification. The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has officially declared RTSOI as their partner through an MOU, in helping them develop policy guidelines, code of conduct and ethical practices for Sustainable Tourism, to position India as a Global eco-tourism destination following Responsible Tourism principles.

It's a question more travellers, creators, and tourism professionals are beginning to ask.One viral Reel can transform a...
05/08/2026

It's a question more travellers, creators, and tourism professionals are beginning to ask.

One viral Reel can transform a quiet destination into an overcrowded hotspot almost overnight. But as RTSOI Founding Member Mandip Singh Soin points out in the recent India Today article, keeping destinations hidden is, at best, a temporary solution. In a connected world, discovery is inevitable.

The real opportunity lies elsewhere.

Instead of gatekeeping places, we must build a culture of responsible sharing, supported by better destination planning, informed travellers, ethical content creators, engaged local communities, and tourism businesses that respect ecological and cultural limits.

At RTSOI, we believe responsible tourism doesn't begin when you arrive at a destination-it begins the moment you decide how to experience it, and even how you choose to share it.

We are proud to have our Founding Member, Mandip Singh Soin, leading this important conversation, alongside the support of our Goodwill Ambassadors – Arjun Mathur, Latika Nath and Bittu Sehgal – who continue to champion responsible travel, conservation, and the protection of India's natural and cultural heritage.

Perhaps the question is no longer "Should we reveal hidden gems?"
It's "How do we ensure they remain special after they're discovered?"

Read the full article: https://www.indiatoday.in/lifestyle/travel/story/overtourism-is-killing-hidden-gem-travel-spots-on-instagram-should-you-gatekeep-2960687-2026-08-02

A tiger is more than an iconic species-it is a guardian of our forests.Healthy tiger populations indicate healthy ecosys...
29/07/2026

A tiger is more than an iconic species-it is a guardian of our forests.

Healthy tiger populations indicate healthy ecosystems. Their habitats protect watersheds, support biodiversity, store carbon, and sustain communities that depend on these landscapes.

On International Tiger Day, we celebrate not only one of nature's most magnificent creatures but also the ecosystems that make life possible.

At RTSOI, we believe responsible wildlife tourism has an important role to play in conservation. When managed responsibly, tourism can create livelihoods, strengthen conservation efforts, and inspire travellers to become custodians of our natural heritage.

We are proud of the efforts of our members Ibex Expeditions - Adventure, Safari & Luxury travel in India & Overseas. , Madhya Pradesh Tourism and Ananya Resorts, who continue to demonstrate how tourism can support conservation, protect biodiversity, and empower local communities through responsible wildlife and nature-based tourism.

Because protecting tigers isn't just about saving a species.

It's about securing the future of our forests, our water, our biodiversity-and ourselves.

Sustainability isn't a destination. It's a continuous commitment.In the latest edition of Destination India, RTSOI Presi...
27/07/2026

Sustainability isn't a destination. It's a continuous commitment.

In the latest edition of Destination India, RTSOI President, Mr. Rakesh Mathur makes a compelling case for moving beyond long-term sustainability to what he calls "Perpetual Sustainability."

From reducing single-use plastics and embracing renewable energy to rethinking luxury, strengthening waste management, and respecting carrying capacities, the article reminds us that tourism cannot thrive unless the environment does.

At RTSOI, we believe responsible tourism begins with responsible choices—by governments, businesses, communities, and travellers alike. Building resilient destinations requires collective action, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to protecting our natural and cultural heritage.

We are proud to have our Founding Members, Mr. Jose Dominic and Mr. Mandip Singh Soin, along with our Governing Body Member, Mr. Anirudh Chaoji, leading this charge within RTSOI-driving conversations and action towards a more responsible and sustainable tourism industry.

Because the future of tourism depends on the future of our planet.

Wildlife tourism should protect wildlife first.Wildlife tourism has the power to inspire conservation, create livelihood...
16/07/2026

Wildlife tourism should protect wildlife first.

Wildlife tourism has the power to inspire conservation, create livelihoods, and connect people with nature. But without careful planning, it can also place immense pressure on the very ecosystems it depends upon.

In the latest article, "A Sustainable Framework for Wildlife Tourism," Sudhir Sahi, Founding Member of RTSOI, explores the need for a structured, long-term approach to wildlife tourism-one that balances conservation, community participation, visitor management, and sustainable destination planning.

At RTSOI, we believe wildlife tourism must be guided by science, respect ecological limits, and create meaningful benefits for local communities. Protecting biodiversity isn't an obstacle to tourism-it's the foundation of its future.

We are proud of the contributions of our Founding Member Sudhir Sahi, along with our members DestinAsia Journeys and Dhole's Den, Bandipur National Park, who continue to champion responsible wildlife tourism and inspire sustainable destination management.

Because the greatest wildlife experience is one that leaves nature exactly as it should be-wild.

Who pays for the waste tourism leaves behind?As tourism grows, so does the responsibility of protecting the destinations...
07/07/2026

Who pays for the waste tourism leaves behind?

As tourism grows, so does the responsibility of protecting the destinations that make travel meaningful. For many fragile regions, managing waste, conserving ecosystems, and supporting local communities requires more than good intentions-it requires sustainable solutions.

In their latest article, "Tourism, Waste and the New Environmental Levies in Fragile Regions," Dr. Pema Choden Bhutia and Prashant Kumar explore how thoughtfully designed environmental levies can help destinations invest in conservation, waste management, and long-term resilience.

At RTSOI, we believe responsible tourism is built on shared responsibility. Environmental levies, when implemented with transparency and accountability, can become an important tool in ensuring tourism contributes positively to the places it depends on.

We are proud of the efforts of our members Dr. Pema Choden Bhutia, Orange County Resorts and Hotels, and Earthen Experiences, who continue to champion responsible tourism practices and contribute to meaningful conversations around sustainable destination development.

Because protecting a destination is not the cost of tourism-it's the responsibility of everyone who benefits from it.

Sometimes, the Most Responsible Thing a Destination Can Do Is Say "Not Today."Mawlynnong, often recognised as Asia's Cle...
30/06/2026

Sometimes, the Most Responsible Thing a Destination Can Do Is Say "Not Today."

Mawlynnong, often recognised as Asia's Cleanest Village, has taken a bold step by closing its doors to day visitors every Sunday. The decision isn't about discouraging tourism - it's about protecting the very values that make the village special: its community, culture, and environment.

At RTSOI, we believe sustainable tourism is not measured by the number of visitors a destination receives, but by its ability to preserve its identity for generations to come.

This is the kind of destination stewardship we hope to see inspire responsible tourism across India. We appreciate members such as the MP Ecotourism Development Board , Chhattisgarh Tourism , Odisha Tourism ,who are working towards sustainable destination development and responsible tourism. Together, we can build destinations that balance visitor experiences with ecological integrity, cultural heritage, and community well-being.

Because responsible tourism isn't about saying yes to every visitor.

It's about knowing when to pause.

Inspired by the BBC Travel feature on Mawlynnong's approach to destination management.

Your Holiday Begins Long Before You TravelThe choices you make while planning a trip can have a lasting impact on destin...
22/06/2026

Your Holiday Begins Long Before You Travel

The choices you make while planning a trip can have a lasting impact on destinations, communities, and ecosystems.

RTSOI's Responsible Traveller Guidelines encourage travellers to choose responsible travel companies, support hotels with sustainable practices, and prioritise experiences that respect nature and local communities.

We appreciate stakeholders who are helping shape a more responsible future for tourism:

Diphlu River Lodge - championing conservation-led hospitality through community engagement, responsible waste management, local sourcing, and initiatives that support the protection of Kaziranga's unique biodiversity.

Vikram Maira - integrating sustainability through organic farm-to-table dining, heritage architecture restoration, careful water management, and experiences that celebrate the culture and ecology of the Kumaon Himalayas.

ABChapri Retreats - blending Sufi-inspired luxury with ecological responsibility in the Zabarwa

At RTSOI, we believe responsible tourism is built by people who care for communities, for nature, and for themselves.Thi...
21/06/2026

At RTSOI, we believe responsible tourism is built by people who care for communities, for nature, and for themselves.

This International Yoga Day, take a moment to pause, breathe, and recharge. Because when we care for ourselves, we create better journeys for everyone.

Happy International Yoga Day!

Tourism Should Benefit the People Who Call a Destination HomeBehind every memorable journey are local communities that p...
12/06/2026

Tourism Should Benefit the People Who Call a Destination Home

Behind every memorable journey are local communities that preserve traditions, protect landscapes, and shape authentic travel experiences.

RTSOI's Responsible Traveller Guidelines encourage travellers to support local businesses, engage respectfully with communities, and contribute positively to the destinations they visit.

We celebrate stakeholders creating meaningful community impact:

Niraalee Shah - empowering communities through grassroots environmental awareness initiatives in Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary.
Barefoot in the Andamans - championing tourism experiences that connect travellers with local communities and fragile island ecosystems.
Rakkh - fostering community engagement and sustainable tourism in the Himalayan region.

Because when communities thrive, destinations thrive.

Every journey leaves a mark, whether we see it or not. This World Environment Day, RTSOI encourages travellers and indus...
05/06/2026

Every journey leaves a mark, whether we see it or not. This World Environment Day, RTSOI encourages travellers and industry stakeholders alike to choose practices that help destinations thrive long after we leave.

Address

E 75, LGF, East Of Kailash
New Delhi
110065

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 5pm
Tuesday 10am - 5pm
Wednesday 10am - 5pm
Thursday 10am - 5pm
Friday 10am - 5pm

Telephone

+919015226116

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