What Does "Ethical Elephant Tourism" Actually Look Like in India?

What Does “Ethical Elephant Tourism” Actually Look Like in India?

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India, with its deep historical and cultural reverence for elephants, is home to a significant population of these majestic giants. Unfortunately, this reverence has often translated into their use in the tourism industry—for temple ceremonies, shows, and, most visibly, for rides at historic sites like Amber Fort in Jaipur. However, global awareness about animal welfare has dramatically shifted the travel landscape. Today, the conscious traveler seeks "Ethical Elephant Tourism," a phrase frequently used but often poorly understood. The term is sometimes used by businesses for "greenwashing"—marketing cruelty as care. ... Read More
Jaipur’s Heritage & Elephant Conservation: Linking Wildlife Protection with City Wall Restoration

Jaipur’s Heritage & Elephant Conservation: Linking Wildlife Protection with City Wall Restoration

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Jaipur—the Pink City of India—is a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its forts, palaces, and the iconic city wall that has protected it since the 18th century. But if you look closely, this wall is cracking, crumbling, and being eaten away by neglect, urban expansion, and time. Interestingly, a growing number of Jaipur-based conservation organizations are linking this heritage loss with wildlife awareness campaigns—particularly around forest elephants and ethical elephant tourism. Why? Because both represent a shared challenge of conservation, respect for living heritage, and long-term sustainability. ... Read More