It’s significant that India’s Travel Operators for Tigers (TOFT) was been recognized as a Sustainable Travel Innovator at the Travel & Leisure Global Vision Awards 2025. The group is being praised for its innovative efforts in Nepal and India to conserve wildlife and promote eco-friendly travel. This places TOFT in the spotlight alongside 25 other trailblazers from around the world who are revolutionizing ethical and creative travel.
TOFT has been at the forefront of ethical tourism since its founding in 2004. They have been very busy training tour guides, certifying eco-friendly lodging, and engaging local communities in conservation initiatives. With operations in over two dozen national parks, TOFT has played a significant role in advancing environmentally friendly methods that support the preservation of tigers and their habitats. Strict guidelines on water conservation, waste management, and energy efficiency are adhered to by their network of tour operators, lodges, and travel consultants, ensuring that tourism benefits wildlife rather than detracts from it.
TOFT Director Deepika Chowdhary was delighted: “It is such an amazing honor to be recognized as a Sustainable Travel Innovator. It is evidence that our efforts are having an impact. We are actively striving to protect India’s incredible wildlife, not only to showcase it. Through educating guides, strengthening local communities, and adhering to our sustainability standards, we are contributing to the development of responsible tourism.
Finding the ideal balance between conservation and tourism is the main goal of TOFT. By ensuring that tiger habitats are preserved and providing visitors with unique, morally sound outdoor experiences, they are spearheading the movement toward responsible wildlife tourism. Everyone benefits from it: locals, tourists, and wildlife.
