In a groundbreaking move toward sustainable tourism and female empowerment, The Intrepid Foundation, the non-profit arm of Intrepid Travel, has launched the ‘Holy City Rickshaws’ initiative in Varanasi, India. This innovative program offers travelers a unique and environmentally friendly way to explore one of India’s most sacred cities while creating positive change within the local community.
The heart of the initiative lies in its fleet of ten eco-friendly e-rickshaws, operated by women from Varanasi. This provides a new and empowering employment opportunity, not only supporting their livelihoods but also contributing to the sustainable development of the city. Developed in partnership with ACCESS Development, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering sustainable livelihoods, the project aims to address both economic and environmental challenges.
The Holy City Rickshaw project is a testament to The Intrepid Foundation’s commitment to creating positive change in local communities through responsible tourism. The initiative provides women with the necessary skills and support to succeed in their new roles as e-rickshaw drivers, equipping them with training that includes driving and maintaining the vehicles, as well as financial and business literacy. These female-led tours will be integrated into Intrepid’s India itineraries, offering travelers an authentic and environmentally friendly way to experience Varanasi.
The flag-off ceremony for the Holy City Rickshaw project was attended by prominent figures including Rajendra Kumar Rawat, Deputy Director of the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, and Prof. Prem Narayan Singh, Director of IUCTE, BHU, Varanasi, alongside representatives from Intrepid Travel and The Intrepid Foundation. This event highlighted the significance of the initiative for both the local community and the tourism industry.
The Intrepid Foundation, established in 2002, has a long history of supporting local communities where Intrepid Travel operates. They connect travelers with impact partners in destinations around the world, encouraging them to support initiatives that create lasting change. This latest project in Varanasi demonstrates Intrepid’s dedication to sustainable tourism and community empowerment, offering travelers a more responsible way to engage with this historic city.
Rama Mahendru, Country General Manager – India at Intrepid Travel, emphasized the project’s role in promoting greater female economic inclusion in India, highlighting their goal of increasing women’s participation in the tourism industry. Vipin Sharma, CEO of ACCESS Development Services, described the three-pillar approach of the project: promoting women’s economic empowerment, building social capital through ownership opportunities, and supporting the environment through the use of electric rickshaws. Biheng Zhang, General Manager of The Intrepid Foundation, expressed the foundation’s commitment to creating real, lasting change, emphasizing the initiative’s benefits for both the women involved and the travelers who will experience Varanasi through their eyes.
Based in Australia, Intrepid Travel is known for its sustainable and immersive travel experiences, fostering meaningful connections between travelers and local communities, offering a deeper understanding of the culture, traditions, and environment. The company’s commitment to responsible tourism ensures that every trip promotes sustainability and positive impact, creating authentic experiences that benefit both travelers and the destinations they explore. The Holy City Rickshaws initiative is a powerful example of Intrepid’s dedication to creating positive change in the world, one journey at a time.
