High and dry? The Thar desert brims with life
The sprawling Thar is home to diverse wildlife — and a friendly sustainable tourism community. Discover a desert that's anything but desolate.
‘I knew I wanted to do something here in my village’
Gemar Singh is the founder of Hacra Dhani, a local-owned desert travel social enterprise in a rural corner of Rajasthan specialising in authentic and sustainable experiences guided by the local community.
‘An additional sense of purpose’
Gajje is a guide with Hacra Dhani, a desert travel social enterprise in Rajasthan that uplifts the local community.
A friendly home in the land of kings
Orchha is a laid-back town rich in royal history and monuments. Explore its majestic past, and help rural communities nearby build fresh livelihoods through tourism.
‘My children have benefited in so many ways’
Kiran and Surendra are homestay hosts under Friends of Orchha, which works with local families to open their homes to travellers, to create more sustainable livelihoods.
'An ambassador of my community'
Reality Tours and Travel is a travel social enterprise that empowers locals to lead tours around their community. It also channels 80 per cent of its profits back to the community.
‘They are my spiritual teachers’
Joanita is the founder of Mettaa Reflexology Centre, a no-frills spa in Mumbai that employs the visually-challenged
‘It's about supporting livelihoods and living heritage’
Radhi Parekh is the founder of ARTISANS’, an exhibition space and store that seeks to empower Indian artisans
Nawalgarh’s heart of gold
Filled with sumptuous 18th-century mansions, Nawalgarh dazzles. Make Apani Dhani your home as you explore the town, and help a new generation of artisans shine.
‘It's an opportunity to learn’
Kusum and Havi are hosts under Friends of Orchha, which works with local families to open their homes to travellers, to create more sustainable livelihoods.
We tell stories of everyday people doing good in Asia, to inspire action. Through The Better Traveller, you can dive into our travel stories and share ideas on how to make a difference on the go.