Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE) becomes the first tourism company in India to receive the Biosphere Certified designation—a strategic step that strengthens Biosphere’s positioning in an emerging market with high potential for sustainable tourism, where the demand for responsible experiences aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) continues to grow.
The Indian tour operator Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE) has recently received the Biosphere Certified designation, becoming the first company in India to achieve this international recognition, which highlights a commitment to the principles of sustainable tourism. This certification, granted by the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI), verifies the effective implementation of best practices aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that the organization is meeting its environmental, social, cultural, and economic commitments.
This milestone presents a key opportunity to introduce and establish the Biosphere certification model in India—a country emerging as one of the world’s most promising markets for responsible tourism.
Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE) is recognized for its pioneering approach in combining tourism with positive social impact. The company has led projects that connect remote Himalayan communities to renewable energy sources and promote cultural immersion tourism that directly benefits local populations. Its adoption of the Biosphere certification reinforces its position as a leader in regenerative and responsible tourism, setting a foundation to inspire other companies in the region’s tourism sector.
With over 1.4 billion people, a growing middle class, and increasing interest in responsible consumption, India offers extraordinary potential for expanding sustainable tourism models. The country is experiencing a steady rise in both domestic and international travelers and a progressive diversification of demand toward authentic experiences that respect the environment and align with the SDGs.
In this context, the Indian market is not immune to what has already become a global trend, in which tourists are showing increasing interest in sustainable initiatives, while authorities and tourism sector stakeholders are beginning to incorporate environmental and social goals into their development strategies.
The presence of a certified company like Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE) in India opens new doors to raise awareness within the country’s tourism business community and promote the adoption of the Biosphere certification among accommodations, agencies, tour operators, and destinations.
At Biosphere, we celebrate the incorporation of Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE) into the Biosphere community and call on more organizations in India to join this commitment to sustainable tourism. Choosing the Biosphere certification enhances brand reputation, attracts a more conscious audience, and aligns with global industry trends.
India now has a unique opportunity to become a leader in sustainable tourism in Asia, and at Biosphere, we will continue supporting this journey with tools, technical guidance, and a global community driving real change in the sector.