National Tourism Day: Why these cyclists from Maharashtra are turning to ecotourism

Pune-based Saideep Dhondge is currently cycling on the western coast of India and is about to reach Vijaydurg, one of the oldest forts of Maharashtra. Today marks the fifth day of his Konkan cycling expedition which is being covered on the world's most eco-friendly and energy-efficient form of transport - a bicycle. Commenced on January 21 from Mandwa, near Mumbai, and concluding at Goa on January 28, this 550 km long expedition is Sai's treasured brainchild.

He is accompanied by 20 more resolute riders who aim to finish the trail with a zero-waste policy. Aware of their carbon footprint, these modern-day explorers are devouring vistas and cultural beauty with a new travel trend that is unfolding. Ecotourism is a form of mindful traveling that is aimed at sustainable vacations over experience-based ones. It involves the practice of environment conservation, supporting local communities, and ensuring no litter while they traverse through destinations.

On National Tourism Day, Mid-day.com reached out to Sai and his cycling mates on how they are practicing ecotourism. They indulge us with insightful details of their harmonious journey and what they come across.

Beach cleaning drives
Along with touring fields and mangroves, cyclists on the Konkan expedition witness some of the most serene beaches located on the coastal lines of Maharashtra. A few of them are Kashid beach, Murud beach, Karde beach, and many more. "While the beaches on this stretch are relatively clean, often seasonal visitors arrive and act irresponsibly by littering the space. This ruins the beauty of cycling through the beaches," exclaims Sai.

After Sai noticed a rise in similar incidents, he came up with a volunteer programme with his cycling group. "We began with picking up litter in an attempt to clean the beaches. What we found left us stunned. There were plastic bottles, soda cans, and food wrappers spread across long stretches. Microplastics were found on almost every beach. This is posing a threat to not just the marine life but the end consumer, that is humans as well." Now, each expedition that Sai embarks on, has a beach-cleaning activity curated for cyclists. He believes that in doing so, he is giving back to nature what he owes.

To put the waste to good use, Sai has tied up with a recycling NGO in Mumbai. He is of the opinion that more steps need to be taken by the government and people themselves to preserve nature. The problem of waste management is bigger than what meets the eye and Sai's revelations are alarming.

Sustainable traveling
Accompanying Sai is a college student Jayant Datta who is pursuing his master's from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai. Jayant believes that his actions today will resonate in the future. "My purpose to advocate ecotourism is a critical endeavor for future generations. I want them to experience these destinations as untouched by human interventions", shared Jayant while unwinding from his day's ride toward Goa.

To achieve this, Jayant along with other cyclists are carrying their own mugs and utensils that they wash after use. In this expedition, there is no provision for plastic or disposable cups in a bid to promote sustainable traveling. Jayant shares that on long tours, it becomes especially imperative to carry utensils. "If we start using disposable cups and plates, it will lead to hundreds of cups and plates lying on our trail. Frankly, there is nothing more selfish than littering a beautiful spot that we just enjoyed ourselves in!"

Sai and Jayant, both believe that this exercise needs to be taken up consciously by worldwide travelers in order to minimise the environmental impact and foster a greater appreciation for mother Earth.

Play: National Tourism Day: How much do you know about tourism in India?

Supporting local community
The Konkan is one of the most scenic coastal stretches in the world. What makes it stand out is the thriving community of people that provides services to travelers. One of them is Sonali Khare's kitchen which is completely run by women in Tarkarli. "We make it a point to stop by this joint and have lunch made by the Konkani women. It helps in promoting local ventures and adds to the socio-economic conditions of locals", shares Sai who is through with almost 280 km of his route.

Cycling along rough terrains can be tough and chances of deadlock are wide. Apart from providing meals, locals also help the riders in finding routes or if they get stuck in rain or landslides.

Sai began with ‘Pedal Thirst Adventures' in 2017 as a sole organiser with his newfound love for cycling. It's serendipitous that his interest in cycling was also sparked on his debut journey to Goa back in 2011. Today, after almost 12 years, he is back on the road but with a mission to spread awareness about ecotourism.

"Cycling has a promising future. When we started in 2017, we saw very few cyclists on the roads. Things have changed for the better post-pandemic. People have taken up cycling for various reasons like fitness, commuting, or even for relaxation purposes." Exploring offbeat places on a cycle is a trend that is garnering more patrons in India. Various cycle expeditions to Dandeli, Devkund, Thoseghar waterfall, Tapola, and Pawna Lake are being carried out by Sai to untouched marvels of nature.

Essentials for a long cycle expedition by Sai:

Crisp packing: Riders pack a carry-on backpack along with a raincoat and a medical kit. A handy hack here is to stuff items in hollow goods like shoes and helmets. Clothes must be rolled to reduce wrinkles and eliminate air.

Nutrition: The riders carry a supplement of vitamins, proteins, and carbohydrates necessary to recuperate from the exertion. Along with that, riders are provided with both veg and non-veg meals to choose from.

Emergency: Sai's group is geared with three extra cycles in case there is a mishap like a puncture, gear failure, or broken cables.

Cycling gear: This involves packing a water bottle, helmet, riding gloves, knee braces, and a waist pack.

Lastly, determination: In long tours, distance becomes a mind game. What the riders need to keep in mind is that stamina must be built over time and not in a day. Also, riding with a group makes it easier as we boost each other and raise collective levels of energy.

Also Read: Veganuary: All you need to know about vegan cheese