Trekking is more than just an adventure; it plays a crucial role in sustaining and empowering local communities in remote regions. From generating employment opportunities to preserving cultural heritage, trekking fosters economic growth and social development in many high-altitude villages. As more travelers seek authentic experiences, their presence directly benefits the people who make these journeys possible.
According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the travel and tourism sector contributed 10.4% to global GDP in 2019, with adventure tourism, including trekking, playing a significant role. In Nepal alone, trekking and mountaineering activities contribute approximately 7.9% to the national GDP, supporting thousands of jobs across various communities.
How Local Communities Get Involved
Trekking wouldn’t be possible without the active participation of local communities. Various roles contribute to the smooth execution of treks, each playing a vital role in both the experience of trekkers and the well-being of locals.
1. Trek Leaders and Guides
Local trek leaders and guides possess in-depth knowledge of the terrain, weather conditions, and cultural significance of the region. Their expertise ensures a safe and informative trekking experience while providing them with sustainable employment. According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), 65% of travelers prefer hiring local guides, which helps inject revenue directly into local economies.
2. Support Staff and Sherpas
Sherpas and other support staff assist in carrying essential supplies, setting up camps, and ensuring trekkers have a comfortable journey. Their contributions are invaluable, particularly in high-altitude regions like the Everest Base Camp trek. Reports suggest that over 10,000 Sherpas are employed in the Nepalese trekking industry, earning a livelihood from expeditions and trekking services.
3. Porters and Mule Operators
In many trekking destinations, porters and mule operators transport luggage and provisions, reducing the burden on trekkers. This work provides a steady source of income for families living in remote mountainous areas. For example, in Ladakh’s Markha Valley trek, local mule operators earn around ₹1,500 per day, significantly improving their financial stability.
4. Drivers and Transportation Services
Reaching trekking trailheads often requires long drives through rugged terrain. Local drivers, operating jeeps or shared taxis, play a key role in connecting trekkers with remote villages, bringing in revenue for transportation services. In Uttarakhand, the trek tourism industry employs thousands of drivers who ferry adventure seekers to destinations like Sankri, Govind Ghat, and Lohajung.
5. Hotel and Homestay Owners
Homestays and small lodges run by local families offer trekkers an opportunity to experience authentic hospitality. This form of tourism supports local businesses while promoting regional culture and traditions. According to a report by the Ministry of Tourism, India, homestay programs in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand have increased rural household incomes by 30-40%.
Examples of Local Community Involvement in Trekking
Everest Region, Nepal
The Everest region is a prime example of how trekking can transform communities. The local Sherpa population has built an entire economy around trekking, with guides, porters, lodges, and tea houses catering to adventurers from around the world. It is estimated that over 50,000 trekkers visit the Everest region annually, generating employment for thousands of local people. The Khumbu region benefits significantly from tourism, with income from trekking supporting education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements.
Raithal Village and Sankri Village, Uttarakhand
Raithal, the base for Dayara Bugyal Trek, and Sankri, the gateway to multiple treks like Kedarkantha and Har Ki Dun, have seen significant economic benefits due to trekking. Local youth are trained as guides, families open homestays, and small businesses thrive, providing sustainable livelihoods. A study by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board found that villages near popular trekking trails witness a 20-30% increase in annual income due to tourism. The influx of trekkers has also led to the preservation of traditional wooden architecture and cultural practices in these villages.
Jaubhari, West Bengal
Situated along the Sandakphu trek route, Jaubhari has embraced eco-tourism, with locals managing homestays, guiding trekkers, and preserving their unique culture while benefiting financially. The West Bengal Tourism Department reported that eco-tourism initiatives in such villages have led to a 35% boost in local employment. Sustainable tourism efforts here focus on maintaining biodiversity, limiting waste, and promoting organic farming as an additional income source.
Leh, Ladakh
Trekking in Leh has been a major contributor to the local economy, particularly in villages like Hemis, Stok, and Markha Valley. Treks such as the Chadar Trek and Stok Kangri draw thousands of adventure enthusiasts annually, providing employment to guides, porters, and homestay owners. According to the Ladakh Tourism Department, tourism-related employment accounts for nearly 50% of household income in many trekking regions. In addition, community-based tourism initiatives ensure that revenue stays within local families rather than large corporations.
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
As a popular trekking hub, Manali supports various local communities through treks like Hampta Pass, Bhrigu Lake, and Beas Kund. Many local families run guesthouses, transport services, and equipment rental businesses. A report from the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Board indicates that adventure tourism, including trekking, has led to a 40% rise in seasonal employment opportunities for residents of surrounding villages. Moreover, traditional Himachali cuisine and handicrafts have gained recognition as trekkers seek local cultural experiences.
What expert has to say
Our team interviewed Mr. Sobhi Negi, the founder of Himalayan Dream Treks (HDT), a tour operator specializing in trekking and hiking in the Indian Himalayas. He said ‘In remote places with beautiful scenery but few jobs, trekking helps people earn money. In places like Kathmandu, Gangotri, and Manali, many locals work in tourism. This helps them stay in their villages instead of moving to cities for work. At HDT, most of our staff are from Uttarakhand and Nepal. Other villages can also benefit from trekking and village tourism. But it is important to protect nature and be responsible. Too many tourists can harm the environment, so we need ways to keep it safe. Supporting local people also helps us understand the area better and build good relationships with them.’
Conclusion
Trekking serves as a powerful tool for rural development, providing employment, fostering economic growth, and preserving local traditions. By choosing responsible trekking operators and staying in locally-run accommodations, trekkers can contribute directly to the well-being of these mountain communities.
Supporting local businesses ensures that these regions continue to prosper while maintaining their unique landscapes and traditions. As travelers, making mindful choices about where to trek and whom to support can make a significant difference in the lives of those who call these mountains home.
