By following these simple guidelines, you can help preserve the unique environment and ancient cultures of the Himalayas

Protect the natural environment

• Limit deforestation - make no open fires and discourage others from doing so on your behalf. Where water is heated by scarce firewood, use as little as possible. When possible choose accommodation that uses kerosene or fuel efficient wood stoves.

• Remove Litter, burn or bury paper and carry out all non degradable litter. Graffiti are permanent examples of environmental pollution.

• Keep local water clean and avoid using pollutants such as detergents in streams or springs. If no toiled facilities are available make sure you are at least 30 meters away from water sources and bury or cover wastes.

• Plants should be left to flourish in their natural environment - taking cuttings, seeds and roots is illegal in many parts of the Himalaya.

• Help your guides and porters to follow conservation measures.

The Himalayas may change you, please don't change them.

As a guest, respect local traditions, protect local cultures, maintain local pride.

• When taking photographs respect privacy - ask permission, use restraint.
• Respect holy places - preserve what you have come to see, never touch or remove religious objects. Shoes should be removed when visiting temples.
• Giving to Children encourages begging. A donation to a health center or school is a more constructive way to help
• You will be accepted and welcomed if you follow local customs Use only your right hand for eating and greeting. Do not share cutlery or cups etc.. It is polite to use both hands when giving or receiving gifts.
• Respect for local etiquette earns you respect - loose, lightweight clothes are preferable to revealing shorts, skimpy tops and tight fitting action wear. Holding hands or kissing in public are disliked by local people.
• Observe standard food and bed charges - but do not condone overcharging. Remember when shopping that the bargains you  buy may only be  possible because of low incomes to others
• Visitors who value local traditions encourage local pride and maintain local cultures. Please help local people gain a realistic view of life in Western countries

Sichuan Adventure Travel . No 18 . Section 1 . Binjiang Road . Chengdu . Sichuan . PR CHINA

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