Recently, we visited Periyar National Park and we signed up for a day long trek inside the park. The booking was online and I must add expensive (Rs. 2000 per person). But when I saw what kind of arrangements were offered in exchange of this fee, I was impressed.

I was impressed not because it seemed worthy of my money but rather on where they chose to use that money (albeit one might argue its still high).

It was indeed a pleasant experience knowing that you have traversed through the forest without having to use plastic or any form of disposables. Neither did we need to eat packaged food or depend on bottled water. So if my 2000 rupees is going towards employing the cook who got up so early in the morning to make our fresh meals or to the cleaner who may wash the leech socks and containers OR to purchase reusable dabbas and bottles: I think that is rather satisfying thought!

Kudos to Periyar Forest Department!

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