Vikram, a junior pursuing Industrial Engineering at Iowa State University, embarked on a journey to Nepal last December. While his itinerary included trekking through the breathtaking Annapurna region, immersing himself in the serene lifestyle of a Buddhist monastery near Pokhara, and ringing in the New Year amidst the bustling streets of Thamel, his trip held a deeper purpose. Vikram’s true motivation lay in reconnecting with his roots—visiting his grandmother in eastern Nepal. For three weeks, he explored the landscapes and traditions that shaped his family’s history, gaining a newfound appreciation for the cultural tapestry that surrounded him. His journey did not end there. From Nepal, Vikram traveled to India, where he spent time with his maternal family in Bangalore and Delhi, further deepening his connection to his heritage.
Vikram’s experience is part of a growing movement known as ‘Back to the Roots’ or ‘Roots Tourism.’ More than just a fleeting trend, this form of travel is a heartfelt pursuit of identity and belonging. It allows individuals to explore their ancestral lands, rediscover forgotten traditions, and reconnect with the cultural fabric that has withstood the test of time. As people like Vikram seek to bridge the gap between their modern lives and ancestral heritage, roots tourism continues to gain momentum, offering meaningful journeys that go beyond sightseeing to foster a profound sense of connection and self-discovery.
What is Roots Tourism?
Roots tourism is a form of tourism, which invites individuals to explore the places where their ancestors once lived. In Europe, many regions have witnessed large waves of emigration, with millions of descendants of Europeans now scattered across the globe. Roots tourism taps into the desire of these descendants to reconnect with their cultural heritage, and having been long established in Ireland is now gaining ground in other countries such as Italy.
More than a conventional vacation, this type of tourism is about experiencing cultural heritage through visits to family homes, participation in local traditions, and the discovery of genealogical ties. It emphasizes immersive experiences that allow travelers to engage with the traditional lifestyles, ancestral wisdom, and cultural practices of local communities.
“We all feel the pull of home, and roots tourism can have great emotional power and practical significance. Year-round tourism and the re-discovery and embrace of traditions can drive social and economic growth, revitalise towns and cities, and slow demographic decline – that is the core message of my opinion, and also a call to serious action at the European level.”
Giuseppe Varacalli, city councillor in Gerace, Italy.
The Indian diaspora, estimated to be over 32 million people (the largest in the world), is spread across 146 countries. The colonial period marked a significant increase in the movement of Indian labourers and professionals, primarily under British rule. After India’s independence, migration patterns diversified, with Indians moving for economic, educational, and professional opportunities. Presently Roots tourism contributes significantly to India’s inbound tourism.
Nepal as a Destination for Roots Tourism
The Nepali diaspora population is over 2.1 million, representing approximately 7.5% of Nepal’s total population. About 23.4% of Nepali households have at least one member residing abroad. This trend started in the 1990s and grew many folds in the last decade. While many fear the trend being unsustainable, it also brings the opportunity of creating a pool of potential travellers in the form of visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR) as well as Back to the Roots travelers.
The Benefits of ‘Back to the Roots’ Tourism:
1. Cultural Preservation
By promoting traditional practices and heritage, this form of tourism incentivizes communities to preserve their culture. When locals see the economic benefits of sharing their traditions, they are more likely to pass them down to future generations.
2. Empowering Local Communities
‘Back to the Roots’ tourism is inherently inclusive. It creates opportunities for rural communities to showcase their way of life while earning a sustainable income. Homestays, guided cultural tours, and local craft sales directly benefit residents. Transfer of knowledge can have a long term positive impact in the host communities.
3. Sustainable Tourism Development
Unlike mass tourism, which often strains natural resources and disrupts ecosystems, Roots Tourism is low-impact and environmentally friendly. It aligns with Nepal’s commitment to responsible tourism and inclusive practices.
4. Meaningful connection and taking ownership
This exchange can bolster local pride and create a renewed sense of community identity. Locals are often also engaged directly, sharing their knowledge of local customs, participating in genealogical research, or offering guided tours of important family landmarks. Thus, this form of tourism enables one to take ownership of their cultural heritage.
5. Diversifying Tourism Offerings
While Nepal is globally renowned for trekking and mountaineering, ‘Back to the Roots’ tourism can add a new dimension to its offerings. This diversification can attract a different segment of tourists who are more interested in cultural immersion while embracing adventure.
Challenges Ahead
To fully realize the potential of Roots tourism, Destination Nepal needs to address several challenges:
- Infrastructure Development: It requires better transportation, communication, and accommodation facilities to cater to international tourists.
- Training and Capacity Building: Local communities need training in hospitality, storytelling, and cross-cultural understanding in order to create meaningful and enjoyable experiences for tourists.
- Authenticity vs. Commercialization: There is a risk of over-commercializing cultural experiences, which could dilute their authenticity. Maintaining a balance is critical.
- Marketing and Promotion: Effective marketing campaigns are essential to position Nepal as a prime destination for ‘Back to the Roots’ tourism in the global market. Nepal Tourism Board can work in tandem with the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) and Nepalese Embassies in order to boost the demand.
Roots tourism represents a significant opportunity for Nepal to position itself as a destination that goes beyond adventure and natural beauty. It is not just a niche market—it is a growing phenomenon that can help reshape the future of sustainable tourism in Nepal.
By promoting this form of travel, Nepal can ensure that the economic and cultural benefits of tourism reach all parts of the country, particularly those villages and towns most in need of revitalization. Embracing roots tourism not only strengthens Nepal’s cultural identity but also opens doors for travelers to form deeper connections with their heritage. As more individuals embark on their own Back to the Roots voyages, Nepal stands ready to welcome more Vikram with open arms, offering an enriching experience that intertwines history, culture, and a sense of belonging.
