Environmental & Leave No Trace Policy

The Himalaya are fragile and sacred. Aarushi Tour & Travel (Aarushi Adventures) is committed to responsible, low-impact travel, and we ask every participant to help us protect the mountains, rivers, forests, and communities we visit across Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and other Himalayan regions. Following this policy is a condition of joining our trips.

01Leave No Trace

Pack it in, pack it out: All non-biodegradable waste — wrappers, bottles, batteries, sanitary and plastic items — must be carried back and disposed of responsibly. Nothing is left on the trail or at campsites.
No littering: Do not bury or burn plastic or leave food waste that can harm wildlife.
Human waste: Use designated toilets or dig cat-holes well away from water sources, trails, and camps, and cover them.

02Protect Water, Wildlife & Flora

Water sources: Do not wash, use soap, or dispose of waste in or near streams, lakes, or springs.
Wildlife: Observe from a distance; never feed, chase, or disturb animals or birds.
Flora: Do not pick flowers, uproot plants, or damage trees. Stay on established trails to prevent erosion.

03Minimise Campfire & Fuel Impact

Open wood fires are discouraged and are prohibited where forbidden by the Forest Department. We use clean fuel (kerosene / LPG / stoves) for cooking and warmth, and follow all local fire-safety rules.

04Reduce Plastic

We encourage reusable bottles, boxes, and bags. Single-use plastic should be avoided wherever possible, in line with state and Forest Department plastic-free regulations.

05Respect Local Communities & Culture

Seek permission before photographing people, homes, or religious sites (see our Photography & Media Consent).
Dress modestly and behave respectfully at temples, monasteries, and sacred sites.
Support local homestays, porters, and vendors, and honour local customs.

06Participant Responsibility

Every participant is responsible for their own environmental conduct. Reckless littering, damage to the environment, or violation of Forest Department or local laws may result in immediate removal from the trip under our Terms & Conditions, with no refund, and may attract penalties imposed by the authorities.