SUSTAINABLE MOUNTAIN TOURISM
ALTOA aims to create a Sustainable Mountain tourism vision for Ladakh. It envisions a future where tourism in mountainous regions is conducted in a manner that preserves and enhances the natural environment, respects local cultures and communities, and provides long-term benefits for all stakeholders involved.

TREKKING and MOUNTAINEERING RULES

• All Tour Operators must be registered with Ladakh Tourism and No person/ operator shall operate trekking activities unless it is registered with Ladakh Tourism
• All Tour Operators must obtain Trekking permission from All Ladakh Tour Operators Association (ALTOA)
• All Tour Operators must obtain permission from Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) for climbing peaks
• Solo Treks are NOT allowed. Solo trekkers and climbers must hire local guides
• All Trekking and Mountaineering Guides must be registered with the Ladakh Mountain Guide Association (LMGA)
• All Trekking and Mountaineering Guides must be qualified in advanced wilderness first aid training and CPR, extensive high-altitude experience on trekking routes, or completed the Basic and Advanced Mountaineering Course from recognised national mountaineering Institutes.
• Ladakh Mountain Guide Association (LMGA) has been appointed as mountain leaders who will check and report any non-compliance of rules and guidelines

TREKKING and MOUNTAINEERING GUIDELINES

1. Camps and restrooms must be pitched at a safe distance from the water source and streams
2. Weight in weight out measure to be imposed. All Trekking groups will have to declare their Food list which will be checked at the end of Trek. All waste must be brought back by the trekking groups to be segregated and disposed properly in Leh.
3. There will be no Garbage Pits at the campsites
4. Silver Foil is banned, and we must encourage the use of Tiffin box for pack lunch
5. Designated Toilet camp sites will be identified and will ensure that Toilet camps are pitched 100 meters away from any water body or source
6. Kitchen camp locations will also be pitched 100 meters away from any water body or source
7. Water for cleaning utensils must be filled in containers and washed at designated sites only ideally 100 meters away from any water body or source. Washing or cleaning utensils should be done at their designated areas and not in the flowing streams
8. Minimum use of cleaning and chemical agents for washing utensils like Vim etc
9. All food rations must be carried in locally made bags. This will ensure that no plastic goes to the region, and it will generate employment and economic benefits to the local communities

Any member of an expedition/tour operators, if found trekking or climbing without permit from ALTOA and IMF or violating the above environment protection rules, shall be liable to be debarred from undertaking any trekking or mountaineering expeditions.

Hemis National Park in Markha valley

When visiting The Hemis National Park in Markha valley, it is essential to adhere to responsible and ethical practices to ensure the well-being of the wildlife and the conservation of their natural habitats.

Do’s:

1. Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid getting too close or touching them. Respect their space and natural behaviours.
2. Stay on Designated Trails: Stick to established paths and trails to minimise the impact on the wildlife and their habitats. Avoid going off-trail or disturbing vegetation.
3. Use Quiet Voices: Keep noise levels low to avoid startling or stressing the animals.
4. Be Patient: Wildlife sightings are not always guaranteed. Be patient and allow the animals to show themselves in their own time.
5. Use Binoculars and Cameras: Use binoculars or cameras with telephoto lenses to view and capture wildlife images from a distance.
6. Follow Park Rules and Guidelines: Familiarise yourself with the specific rules and guidelines of the wildlife park and follow them diligently.
7. Educate Yourself: Learn about the animals you might encounter, their behaviors, and the conservation efforts in the park. Educate yourself about responsible wildlife tourism.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t Feed the Animals: Feeding wildlife can harm their health and disrupt their natural feeding behaviours. It can also make them reliant on human food, leading to aggressive behaviour.
2. Don’t Approach or Chase Wildlife: Avoid getting too close to the animals, as it can cause stress and fear, leading to defensive behaviors.
3. Don’t Use Flash Photography: Flash photography can startle and stress animals, especially during nocturnal activities.
4. Don’t Litter: Carry all your waste out of the park and dispose of it properly. Litter can be harmful to wildlife and their habitats.
5. Don’t Disturb Nesting or Breeding Areas: Keep a safe distance from nesting, denning, or breeding areas to avoid disturbing the young or the parents.
6. Don’t Collect Souvenirs: Avoid picking up rocks, shells, plants, or any other natural items from the park. Leave everything as you found it.
7. Don’t Smoke: Smoking is not only harmful to the environment but can also be distressing to wildlife. Avoid smoking in the park.

Remember that wildlife parks are conservation areas, and our presence as visitors should have minimal impact on the animals and their habitats. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can contribute to the well-being of the wildlife and the preservation of these natural treasures.