I started backpacking in 2013. The first trip to Hampi made me realize I cannot stay in one place and should get out more often. It was difficult to stop me after that. And even after I landed in trouble, almost got married, and accidentally joined an apocalypse cult, I never disliked travel trends until social media came along.
Back in 2013-14, we only had 5 tourist destinations everywhere. To go to a new, hidden village, one had to wait for hours to find a shared ride and then travel on a bumpy road to reach there. So now, I find it bewildering when I see how many new destinations have been added to the map in such a short time.
I went to Mcleodganj in 2014 for the first time. I hardly saw any hotels in Dharamkot. Fast forward a few years, and now even Gallu, the starting point of the Triund Trek, has seen a surge in the number of accommodations.
One reason for this exponential tourism growth is the rise of social media and sharing apps like Instagram. We can now easily geotag their location and share their experiences. It may sound harmful, but it can lead to a massive influx of visitors to previously undiscovered destinations, and it has done so. Unfortunately, this trend has its downsides. The crowding of non-tourist destinations can cause problems such as traffic congestion, environmental damage, and strained resources. For example, the recent surge in tourists to Tirthan Valley has led many to look for less-crowded places, like Shangarh, and once it is crowded, people will go elsewhere.
It is exciting that so many people like to explore new places. But they don’t consider our actions’ impact on the destinations we visit. Let’s explore the negative harms of geotagging on the environment, local communities, and the economy and provide tips on traveling responsibly while still having fun.
The Bane of Social Media Sharing Apps
Instagram has played a significant role in bringing attention to lesser-known tourist spots. The geotagging feature has made finding and visiting these places easier without considering any harm. This trend has led to the loss of the sanctity of non-tourist destinations.
Many previously hidden gems are now overrun with tourists. People are often drawn to these places solely because of the stunning photos they see on social media. The result is a crowded, often chaotic, experience that takes away from the natural beauty and tranquility of the destination.
Irresponsible behavior by influencers and travel companies has also exacerbated the problem. Many influencers and travel companies go to lesser-known destinations for a perfect shot. They do this without caring about local customs and traditions and even ecology. In the past, there have been several cases of tourists climbing on sacred monuments or breaking environmental rules for the perfect shot. The repercussions for the same have been too little. This behavior damages the environment and cultural heritage and sends the wrong message to travelers who will see these pictures and come here for similar clicks.
Social media has played a significant role in the rise of irresponsible travel behavior. However, it’s also worth remembering that social media’s problem isn’t unique. Travel companies and guidebooks have been promoting popular destinations for decades, and the responsibility falls on every traveler, not just influencers and travel companies.
Travelers should consider the following reasons to stop geotagging:
It attracts an overwhelming number of tourists
It leads to overcrowding and strains resources. Many destinations, like Spiti Valley, were once pristine, peaceful locations but have become overrun with tourists, creating environmental and social problems. Once a new tourist destination arrives, shops and restaurants open. More plastic bottles and chip packets will be sold around, leading to plastic pollution. The tourists leave, but the locals suffer.
It takes away support from small, locally-owned businesses
When large travel companies and hotel chains come to know about a popular destination, they often invest in building hotels and resorts, taking business away from small homestays and local shops. This, in turn, hurts the local economy and culture. It also creates new sightseeing attractions that once only local experts knew about. Outsiders start coming up with their own itineraries taking away the livelihood from the natives.
It can contribute to the gentrification of the destination
Once a location becomes popular among tourists, it becomes expensive and unaffordable for locals. Recently, more and more remote workers have arrived in Himachal, creating a surge in the prices of houses. This is not a good trend because it hurts the locals who will be here even after these tourists have gone.
How Geotagging and Influencer Activities Ruined the Pristineness of Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley is a perfect example of how geotagging can negatively impact a destination. Once a remote and rugged region relatively unknown to tourists, it has become a popular destination among travelers.
Thanks in large part to social media, more people have begun to visit the region, and the impact of tourism on the environment and local communities has become increasingly apparent. The fragile ecosystem of the valley is now facing issues with waste management, soil erosion, and deforestation. The influx of tourists has also strained local resources, such as water and electricity, which are already scarce in the area.
Our Responsibility Towards the Environment and the Local Community
As travelers, it is our responsibility to be mindful of the impact on how we travel. We must be responsible and respectful visitors. There is no harm in ensuring that the destinations we love remain sustainable for future generations. Travel is a better experience when you stop caring about what influencers say or do and instead indulge in your own thing.
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