Karikot: The remote UP village setting global standards in 'responsible tourism'

Image: Uttar Pradesh Tourism

Karikot, a small village in the Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh, is making waves in the world of sustainable travel. Recently selected for the Indian Subcontinental Responsible Tourism (ICRT) Award 2025, this quaint village near the India-Nepal border and the lush Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary has emerged as a shining example of how community-led tourism can make a meaningful impact. At the heart of Karikot’s success is the Tharu tribal community, whose traditions, knowledge, and active participation have shaped tourism initiatives that benefit both residents and visitors.

The ICRT award ceremony is scheduled to take place at the BLTM Trade Show in New Delhi on September 13, 2025. Karikot will share the spotlight with sixteen other regions from India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka that have also been recognized for their innovative approaches to responsible tourism.

This prestigious event not only celebrates Karikot’s achievements but also aims to inspire other rural and semi-urban communities to adopt sustainable and inclusive tourism practices. By highlighting models of eco-friendly, community-driven tourism, the ceremony encourages villages across the subcontinent to explore similar initiatives that blend culture, environment, and local development.

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What Makes Karikot Stand Out

What sets Karikot apart is its unique blend of culture, sustainability, and community empowerment. Visitors don’t just pass through—they get to experience life in the village firsthand. From homestays and cultural festivals to cross-border eco-tourism programs, every initiative is designed to immerse travellers in the local way of life. Unlike conventional tourist destinations, Karikot emphasizes slow tourism, encouraging guests to explore at a relaxed pace and connect deeply with its landscapes, wildlife, and traditions.

Immersive Cultural Experiences

Karikot’s tourism offerings are deeply rooted in local culture. Visitors can enjoy Tharu music, dance performances, and handicrafts, gaining a richer understanding of the community’s heritage. These experiences are carefully crafted to be authentic, educational, and environmentally conscious, allowing travellers to witness the village’s vibrant traditions while supporting the local economy.

Sustainability at Its Core

Sustainability guides every aspect of Karikot’s tourism model. The village relies on solar energy, biofuels, and efficient waste management systems to minimize environmental impact. By encouraging slow tourism, it ensures that visitor engagement does not overwhelm the local resources or natural surroundings. The proximity to Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary adds a touch of wilderness to the experience, making it a haven for eco-conscious travellers.

Empowering the Community

Tourism in Karikot has created a range of opportunities for local residents. Villagers are employed in homestays, guiding tours, organizing events, and producing handicrafts, ensuring that tourism benefits the community directly. At the same time, traditional skills such as weaving, woodwork, music, and dance are actively preserved, allowing Karikot to maintain its cultural heritage while fostering sustainable livelihoods.

A Model for Rural Tourism

Karikot proves that even small, remote villages can offer travel experiences that are authentic, environmentally responsible, and economically empowering. Its recognition by the ICRT provides a blueprint for other rural regions in India, demonstrating how community engagement, cultural preservation, and eco-friendly practices can come together to create tourism that truly benefits both people and the planet.