Royal Enfield expands sustainable travel & heritage conversation efforts in the Himalayas – ET TravelWorld

With a strong commitment to fostering responsible tourism and cultural preservation, Royal Enfield has reinforced its engagement in sustainable travel initiatives across the Himalayan region. The recently concluded Green Hub x Royal Enfield Responsible Tourism Conclave 2025 in Guwahati and the launch of the third edition of The Great Himalayan Exploration in Sikkim reflect a comprehensive approach to community-driven conservation and heritage documentation.

Empowering Youth for Responsible Tourism in Northeast India

The Green Hub x Royal Enfield Responsible Tourism Conclave 2025, powered by Royal Enfield Social Mission, gathered young conservationists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to present innovative tourism models that integrate conservation and cultural preservation. Now in its third year, the conclave highlighted the impact of the Green Hub x Royal Enfield Responsible Tourism Fellowship, which has nurtured over 45 fellows across 23 communities in eight northeastern states since its launch in 2022. At the core of the conclave was the presentation of Responsible Tourism action plans developed by the latest batch of fellows, who underwent six months of intensive mentorship and training. Their projects, spread across ecologically and culturally significant sites such as Rangapani in Assam and Shergaon in Arunachal Pradesh, promote waste-free tourism, agro-tourism, and nature-linked cultural experiences. Fellowship alumni also shared insights on the long-term impact of their initiatives, emphasizing the program’s role in fostering market linkages and sustainable livelihoods.

“Beyond promoting sustainable travel, the fellowship is about empowering youth and local communities to become stewards of their own landscapes and cultures. We have seen a transformative shift where conservation and livelihood opportunities go hand in hand, creating an ecosystem for collective impact,” said Bidisha Dey, Executive Director, Eicher Group Foundation.

Complementing these discussions, an immersive exhibition showcased local crafts, traditions, and storytelling, reinforcing the deep connection between responsible tourism and cultural preservation. The conclave also facilitated collaborations between community leaders, government agencies, travel businesses, and NGOs, strengthening the region’s responsible tourism ecosystem.

Exploring and Documenting Himalayan Cultural Heritage in Sikkim

As Royal Enfield advances its responsible tourism initiatives, it has once again joined hands with UNESCO for the third edition of The Great Himalayan Exploration, an expedition dedicated to documenting the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of the Indian Himalayas. This year’s journey, set in Sikkim, will see motorcycling researchers traverse the region from March 3 to April 3, engaging with communities to explore and preserve 10 unique ICH practices. Flagged off by Aditya Golay (Tamang), a Member of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, the expedition will take riders through diverse cultural landscapes, where they will document traditions such as the Bhumchu Festival, Lepcha healing practices, Sikkimese mask making, and the Dzumsa self-governing system. These age-old customs, passed down through generations, reflect the Himalayan people’s deep-rooted connection with nature, spirituality, and sustainable living.

“Sikkim’s living heritage is a testament to the resilience of its communities in preserving their traditions amidst modernization. By documenting and sharing these practices, we aim to create awareness and ensure their continuity for future generations,” said a UNESCO representative.

Riders will interact closely with local artisans and communities, capturing their knowledge through storytelling and visual documentation. From traditional yak grazing practices in North Sikkim’s high-altitude pastures to butter sculpture rituals in Buddhist monasteries, the expedition will provide an in-depth look into the region’s unique cultural fabric.

A United Vision for Sustainable and Heritage-Driven Travel

The convergence of these two initiatives underscores Royal Enfield’s broader vision for the Himalayan region—one that seamlessly integrates sustainable tourism with heritage conservation. While the Responsible Tourism Conclave nurtures young changemakers in Northeast India to drive eco-friendly travel enterprises, The Great Himalayan Exploration seeks to document and celebrate the region’s rich cultural legacy, ensuring that traditions remain alive for future generations.

With each passing year, Royal Enfield’s initiatives continue to expand their reach, creating a dynamic network of conservationists, entrepreneurs, and local stakeholders who are collectively redefining the way people experience and contribute to Himalayan tourism. Through responsible travel, community engagement, and heritage preservation, the journey toward a more sustainable and culturally enriched tourism ecosystem is well underway.