ATOAI is pleased to announce the Responsible Adventure Tourism Guide Course scheduled from 3–6 September 2026.

This four-day program is designed to equip adventure tourism professionals and guides with the knowledge, skills, and best practices required to promote safe, sustainable and responsible adventure tourism.

Venue: Indian Mountaineering Foundation, New Delhi

Dates: 3–6 September 2026

Registration is now open:

https://forms.gle/bMMqK41FivyAzRj38

More details regarding the course agenda, faculty and logistics will be shared shortly.

We look forward to your participation.

ATOAI successfully hosted the third session of the Member Advantage Webinar Series, featuring our valued member Holiday Moods Adventures Pvt. Ltd., represented by Mr. Tejbir Singh Anand, Managing Director.

The webinar provided participants with valuable insights into Nordic destinations and expedition travel, showcasing the company’s extensive DMC offerings across Finland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands, along with Luxury Expedition Cruises to Antarctica, the Arctic, and other global destinations. The session highlighted emerging opportunities in experiential travel, destination specialization, and premium expedition tourism.

Presenter Details

• Company: Holiday Moods Adventures Pvt. Ltd.
• Representative: Mr. Tejbir Singh Anand
• Designation: Managing Director
• Contact: +91 98101 22384

Presentation

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TTNjidkfPVLNMldBG8aL7OjgQUJYAK2v/view?usp=sharing

The ATOAI Member Advantage Webinar Series continues to showcase the expertise, innovation, and diverse offerings of member organizations while fostering knowledge-sharing and collaboration across the adventure and experiential travel community.

Members interested in presenting their organization in an upcoming session are invited to apply through the Member Advantage Webinar Series application process.

New Delhi, May 18, 2026: The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) successfully hosted the National Seminar on “Indian Adventure Tourism: Risk Management” at The Park Hotel, New Delhi, bringing together policymakers, tourism officials, industry leaders, insurance experts, legal professionals, and adventure tourism stakeholders from across the country.

The seminar focused on strengthening India’s adventure tourism ecosystem through enhanced risk management practices, robust safety standards, and stronger regulatory frameworks. Discussions explored best practices in risk management, safety protocols across adventure activities, insurance and legal compliance, regulatory mechanisms, and the role of media in fostering awareness and accountability.

A key outcome of the seminar was the formulation of recommendations for a National Roadmap for Adventure Tourism Risk Management, designed to align India’s adventure tourism sector with global best practices while addressing the country’s unique operational and geographical realities.

The event reinforced ATOAI’s commitment to promoting safe, sustainable, and responsible adventure tourism and supporting its vision of positioning India among the world’s leading adventure tourism destinations.

ATOAI successfully hosted another engaging session under the ATOAI Member Advantage Webinar Series, featuring our valued member Adventure Routes.

The webinar was presented by Mr. Muneer Qadri, Founder, Adventure Routes, who shared valuable insights into the North Kashmir LOC Routes, offering participants an exclusive overview of this unique and lesser-explored destination. The session highlighted the region’s tourism potential, key attractions, and opportunities for adventure travel professionals.

Presenter Details

• Company: Adventure Routes
• Speaker: Muneer Qadri
• Designation: Founder
• Contact: +91 97962 22555

Link for the: PPT

The ATOAI Member Advantage Webinar Series continues to provide a platform for members to showcase their expertise, destinations, products, and services while fostering knowledge-sharing and collaboration within the adventure tourism community.

ATOAI Member Advantage Webinar Series – Inaugural Session Successfully Conducted

ATOAI successfully hosted the inaugural session of the ATOAI Member Advantage Webinar Series, marking the beginning of a new initiative aimed at showcasing the expertise, innovations, and offerings of ATOAI members.

Trip Rega, represented by Mr. Alpesh Kumar, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), for delivering an insightful presentation on one of the fastest-growing segments of the travel industry — Spiritual Tourism. The session provided valuable perspectives and practical insights that were highly appreciated by participating members.

Webinar Presenter Details

Company: Trip Rega

Presenter: Alpesh Kumar

Designation: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Contact: +91 9758922888

The ATOAI Member Advantage Webinar Series is designed to provide a platform for members to present their organizations, share expertise, and connect with fellow members.

Adventure Tourism Seminar – “Adventure Strategy for a New Era” 

The Ministry of Tourism (India), in collaboration with Adventure Tour Operators Association of India, successfully conducted a four-day Adventure Guide Training Programme and Seminar in Bhopal from March 17–20, 2026.

A total of 33 adventure professionals were trained in first aid, CPR, risk assessment, and wilderness emergency response, enhancing safety and operational readiness across trekking, mountaineering, and water-based activities.

The concluding seminar, themed “Adventure Strategy for a New Era,” brought together over 80 industry stakeholders to discuss safety standards, policy reforms, technology adoption, and sustainable growth. The initiative reinforces India’s ambition to emerge as a leading global adventure tourism destination while strengthening industry collaboration and professional standards.

Photographs from the Adventure Guide Training & Seminar held in Bhopal are available for viewing and download at:

Adventure Guide Training

Adventure Tourism Seminar

The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) successfully hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the financial year 2024-25 at The Park Hotel, New Delhi, followed by a Fellowship Dinner celebrating industry unity and growth.

ATOAI President Mr. Ajeet Bajaj opened the AGM with a strategic address aimed at elevating India’s global standing in adventure tourism. Key initiatives announced included the adoption of international safety standards, strengthening regional chapters, enhanced guide training programs, and support for women entrepreneurs. The association outlined its vision to position India among the top 10 global adventure destinations by 2034.

Honorary Secretary Mr. Ronny Singh Gulati presented the annual report, highlighting milestones in industry standardization and leadership. Honorary Treasurer Mr. Nirat Bhatt shared a robust financial overview, underscoring ATOAI’s operational strength.

The association extended its gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism, state governments, the Indian Army, and all ATOAI members for their continued support.

The evening concluded with a Fellowship Dinner attended by Mr. Ajit Pal Singh, Regional Director, Ministry of Tourism, who emphasized India’s vast adventure tourism potential and the Ministry’s commitment to capacity-building and collaboration with industry experts.

In September 2025, the ATOAI Women’s Collective (AWC) held its first workshop in New Delhi on “The Potential of AI in the Travel Industry.” The event explored how AI is changing the way trips are planned, experienced, and personalized.

AWC also welcomed its new Chairperson, Ms. Akanksha Garg, Founder–Director of Waxpol Hotels & Resorts. She shared her vision of using technology, inclusivity, and sustainable tourism to empower women and shape the future of adventure travel.

The workshop featured Mr. Suyash Gupta of Travel Bureau India, who led sessions on AI tools, personalized itineraries, and business growth. Participants tried hands-on activities and gained fresh ideas for innovation in travel.

The message was clear: this is just the beginning. Under Ms. Garg’s leadership, AWC will continue to promote AI, women-led innovation, sustainability, and collaboration in the travel industry.

Adventure Tourism Seminar in Hyderabad Highlighted Safety & Sustainability

Hyderabad, August 20, 2025 – The Ministry of Tourism (Hyderabad Office), in collaboration with ATOAI, successfully hosted the Adventure Tourism Seminar: Navigating Toward a Safer and Stronger Future, which drew nearly 90 participants from across the adventure tourism sector.

Speakers included Ms. Valluru Kranthi, IAS, who highlighted Telangana’s adventure potential, and Mr. D. Venkatesan, who shared the Government of India’s vision for globally recognized adventure tourism. Mr. Nirat Bhatt (ATOAI) emphasized safety standards and training.

A panel with experts from EEMA, NITHM, and ATOAI underscored the importance of training, crisis management, and adherence to adventure laws. Participants also took part in an interactive session to address challenges and explore collaboration.

The event concluded with the release of the ATOAI Safety Guidelines Book, reinforcing India’s commitment to safe, sustainable, and responsible adventure tourism.

Images from the seminar can be downloaded here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/PrJXkhk8ZZu4gbW1A

The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) successfully hosted a landmark webinar titled “Safe Tourism Experience: Insurance Explained!”, focusing on the critical importance of travel insurance in today’s unpredictable travel environment.

As travel regains momentum post-pandemic, the webinar served as a timely reminder of the need for safety, preparedness, and resilience. The session reflected ATOAI’s unwavering commitment to creating a more informed and secure tourism landscape in India.

Highlights from the Session

Mr. Ajeet Bajaj, President, ATOAI

Stressed that insurance is fundamental to responsible adventure tourism and advocated for proactive risk management rooted in trust and transparency.

Mr. Arun Srivastava, Joint Director General, Ministry of Tourism

Reaffirmed the government’s support for promoting insurance as a standard practice in the tourism sector.

Mr. Devesh Srivastava, Former Chairman & MD, General Insurance Corporation of India

Simplified key insurance concepts and highlighted its dual value for tour operators and travelers alike.

Mr. Dev Karvat, Founder & CEO, Asego Travel Insurance

Showcased innovative, tech-driven solutions that make travel insurance smarter, faster, and more accessible.

Moderator: Ms. Arshdeep Anand, Vice President, ATOAI

Led the discussion with clarity and precision, ensuring active engagement and thoughtful dialogue.

Key Takeaways

Insurance as a Norm: It must be a core part of travel planning—not a postscript.

Bridging Awareness Gaps: Stakeholders must work together to raise awareness across the sector.

Technology & Innovation: Tech is streamlining and personalizing the insurance experience.

Public-Private Collaboration: A shared vision between government and industry is essential for embedding insurance into the DNA of Indian tourism.

Participants hailed the webinar as “enlightening,” “solution-driven,” and “a must for modern tourism professionals.”

The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) hosted a memorable Members Meet on 30th May 2025 at The Park Hotel, New Delhi. This special gathering brought together adventure tourism professionals and stakeholders from across the country for an evening dedicated to connection, collaboration, and community building.

With enthusiastic participation from various chapters and regions, the event marked a significant milestone in ATOAI’s ongoing journey to strengthen its network and empower its members. It served as a dynamic platform for exchanging ideas, reflecting on key achievements, and setting a collective vision for the future.

The evening commenced with a warm welcome from the ATOAI leadership, who expressed deep appreciation for the dedication and resilience demonstrated by members in navigating the ever evolving landscape of adventure tourism. This was followed by an engaging presentation covering recent initiatives, including safety and certification updates, chapter engagement, training programs, and collaborative opportunities with government bodies and tourism boards.

Celebrating the spirit of adventure that unites us all, the event was a poignant reminder that while our landscapes may differ from the snow-covered Himalayas to the lush Western Ghats our commitment to safe, responsible, and professional adventure tourism remains steadfast.

As the evening transitioned into a relaxed social setting over drinks and dinner, members had the opportunity to network, reconnect with old friends, and build new relationships. Conversations were lively, ideas flowed freely, and the camaraderie that defines ATOAI was evident throughout.

Looking ahead, the Members Meet underscored a powerful message: the strength of ATOAI lies in its members. Your voices, expertise, and collective spirit continue to shape the future of adventure tourism in India.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and contributed to making this event a resounding success. Here's to many more such moments of unity, inspiration, and shared purpose.

In a powerful show of leadership and vision, the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) successfully hosted a landmark webinar titled “Turning Tides: Navigating Upcoming Tourism Trends” on 20th May 2025.

Held amid rising global uncertainty and the Indo-Pak conflict, this bold initiative brought together some of the most influential voices in Indian tourism to chart a path forward for the industry. The event’s timing aligned with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s meeting on tourism held the same day — a strong signal of synergy between government and industry efforts.

Highlights from the Event:

Mr. Ajeet Bajaj, President, ATOAI, emphasized the critical role of resilience, highlighting mental and physical well-being, financial preparedness, and crisis communication.

Mr. Ajay Prakash, President, TAFI, advocated for sustainable, decentralized tourism and emphasized travel as a unifying social force.

Mr. Dhruv Shringi, Co-Founder & CEO of Yatra Online, outlined the future of travel powered by AI, innovation, and a customer-first approach.

Key Takeaways:

AI in Travel: While AI enables personalization and automation, panelists stressed maintaining authenticity through human expertise.

Sustainability: Conscious travel, local community engagement, and mindful planning emerged as essential for long-term success.

Domestic Adventure Tourism: With India’s rich natural landscapes, domestic adventure travel was positioned as a key growth frontier.

Tech-Driven Startups: Young entrepreneurs were encouraged to meet rising demand for immersive, tech-enabled travel solutions.

Described as energizing, thought-provoking, and timely, the webinar acted as a much-needed reset for the industry

As India climbs from 99th to 38th in the global adventure tourism rankings, the need to embed safety, sustainability, and standardized practices into the sector has never been more urgent. The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), through its compelling webinar titled “Safety First: Risk Mitigation in Adventure & Outdoor Tourism,” charted a clear roadmap for responsible and resilient growth in the industry.

Held on April 4, 2025, the webinar brought together leading voices from the adventure tourism community to drive forward a collective commitment to safety and preparedness. With a bold vision of positioning India among the global top 10 in adventure tourism by 2034, ATOAI underscored that growth must be supported by strong infrastructure, certified equipment, well-trained guides, safety protocols, and regulatory accountability.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Ajeet Bajaj, President of ATOAI, emphasized that safety is a shared, non-negotiable responsibility. “India is rising fast in global rankings. But with that rise comes a duty—to protect lives, build trust, and set benchmarks,” he said. Mr. Bajaj also called for a cultural shift where safety, sustainability, and standardization form the foundation of the industry's progress.

The session featured expert panelists who addressed key challenges and practical solutions:

1) Mr. Shantanu Pandit, Consultant, EKO India, asserted that risk management must go beyond checklists. He championed realistic risk assessments, activity mapping, SOPs, and continuous training to instill a preventive culture across all levels of operation.

2) Ms. Navita Shyam, Alpine Adventures Trail Tours, spotlighted the importance of medical readiness, urging both operators and tourists to embrace the “3 Ps”—Plan, Prepare, Practice. She called for stronger first-aid training, wilderness rescue capabilities, and comprehensive health disclosures.

3) Mr. Prateek Gupta, ASC 360, highlighted that insurance is essential, not optional. He cautioned that most insurance claims arise from unregistered operators and unsafe practices. “Cutting corners to save costs often compromises safety,” he noted, advocating for strict compliance with equipment standards and staff qualifications.

ATOAI also introduced its “Seven Sigma” model, designed to drive zero-accident operations through certified gear, skilled personnel, and clear safety protocols.

The webinar was insightfully moderated by Ms. Arshdeep Anand, Vice President of ATOAI, who synthesized diverse perspectives into a unified message: Safety must be systematic—not optional.

As India’s adventure tourism sector scales new heights, ATOAI continues to lead the charge in shaping an ecosystem grounded in ethics, responsibility, and international best practices. Its commitment to standardization, skilled training, insurance compliance, and legal accountability paves the way for sustainable and safe growth in the sector.

ATOAI Hosts Online Members Meet to Strengthen Collaboration and Risk Mitigation in Adventure Tourism

The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) successfully conducted an online members' meet on January 31, 2025, bringing together key stakeholders from the adventure tourism sector. Led by Vice President Ms. Arshdeep Anand, the session focused on the association's latest initiatives and developments in India’s growing adventure tourism industry.

Ms. Anand commenced the session by outlining ATOAI’s strategic roadmap for 2025, formulated during the recent Office Bearers meeting. She also highlighted key priorities discussed in the Chapter Chair meeting on January 13, emphasizing the collective efforts to strengthen the industry and establish actionable goals for future growth.

ATOAI President Mr. Ajeet Bajaj provided an update on India’s remarkable progress in the Adventure Tourism Development Index (ADTI), where the country has advanced from 96th to 38th place among developing nations. He attributed this achievement to the sector’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and global recognition. Mr. Bajaj further emphasized the importance of risk management through the implementation of the “3 G's” – Guidelines, Gear, and Guides.

Advocating for structured licensing policies at the state level, Mr. Bajaj stressed the necessity of enhancing safety, standardization, and responsible growth within the adventure tourism sector. He highlighted how such policies would ensure that operators adhere to the highest safety standards, ultimately providing superior experiences for adventurers.

A key highlight of the meet was the screening of a special film based on the 16th Annual Convention held in Tawang from December 3rd to 8th, 2024. Themed 'Exploring Arunachal Pradesh: India’s Last Shangri-La,' the convention showcased the region’s breathtaking landscapes, culture, and heritage. The film, which was well received by members, demonstrated the successful use of grant funding to document and share the experience.

Watch the 16th ATOAI Annual Convention Film Here: https://youtu.be/dFVsYSAXYvc

The forum also hosted an insightful discussion on the future of adventure tourism, with industry members sharing perspectives on enhancing safety measures and operational effectiveness.

Mr. Shantanu Pandit, Consultant at ECKO, delivered an address on the importance of risk management in India’s diverse and multicultural landscape. He advocated for adopting best practices from industry leaders and emphasized the need for adventure tour operators (ATOs) to develop essential business skills. Additionally, Mr. Pandit recommended a cautious approach when exploring new tourism destinations, urging ATOAI to promote integrated solutions that balance safety, sustainability, and stakeholder interests, including those of government bodies. He stressed the importance of following basic safety guidelines, utilizing existing insurance schemes, and undergoing specialized training to strengthen risk management efforts.

Mr. Pushkaraj Apte, Director of the Maha Adventure Council (MAC), raised concerns regarding the delayed implementation of the Adventure Policy GR introduced by the Government of Maharashtra in August 2021. He highlighted the lack of a formal mechanism for training Outdoor Leaders, which is essential for improving safety standards within the adventure tourism industry.

The meeting reaffirmed ATOAI’s commitment to fostering industry-wide collaboration to enhance safety, training, and sustainable growth.

An exciting introduction to the Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek was presented by ATOAI member Mr. Khem Lal Sahu, Director of 36 Montane. This unique trek offers adventurers the opportunity to explore Chhattisgarh’s untouched wilderness, featuring rich wildlife and lush landscapes for an immersive experience.

Capt. Swadesh Kumar, Founder President and Lifetime Honorary Patron of ATOAI, underscored the importance of continuous learning for adventure tour guides. He advocated for regular training updates and encouraged members to transition from competition to collaboration, uniting the industry for shared success.

Hon. Secretary Mr. Ronny Singh Gulati concluded the session by expressing gratitude to all members for their participation. He reinforced the critical role of self-regulation and risk mitigation in ensuring safety across the sector. His closing remarks echoed a powerful message: “Adventure brings responsibility, and we all need to be responsible individuals in everything we do.”

The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) hosted a landmark webinar on 27th August 2024 titled “Safe Journeys: Enhancing Women’s Safety in Tourism,” organized by the ATOAI Women’s Collective and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The event brought together a wide array of stakeholders from the travel industry, including tour operators, travel agents, hospitality professionals, and government representatives, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for women in tourism. 

Keynote speaker Ms. Mugdha Sinha, Director General at the Ministry of Tourism, highlighted the Ministry’s dedication to addressing safety concerns and promoting gender equality within the sector. The expert panel, featuring industry leaders like Hannah Pearson from the Adventure Travel Trade Association, Dilshad Master Kumar from Bull’s Adventures, and Mohit Aggarwal from Asian Adventures, shared valuable sugeestions for enhancing women’s safety in tourism. 

The webinar underscored several critical areas for advancing women’s safety, including the need for adhering to internationally recognized Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent safety practices, the importance of gender sensitization to address specific needs and risks, and the establishment of effective safety protocols at destinations. Incorporating gender perspectives into safety practices was also emphasized to develop tailored safety measures that promote equity. The ATOAI Women’s Collective plans to continue this crucial dialogue through future initiatives, using the insights gained to create comprehensive guidelines and best practices, ensuring that women’s safety remains a priority in the tourism industry

New Delhi – The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India organized its Members Meet on 18th February at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The event kicked off with registrations and members networking followed by a welcome address by Sr. Vice President Tejbir Singh Anand. 

ATOAI launched its new initiative “The Member Advantage Card” and unveiled the card along with the benefits for members. All partners associated with the card showcased their product and their offers to members through this card.

ATOAI partners are offering special deals & discounts on:

    – Outdoor Equipment

    – Garments for Outdoors

    – B2B special rates with Hotels

    – Deals from insurance companies

    – B2B Marketing Platform with confirmed B2B meetings

    – And many more are being added as we surge ahead

“The Member Advantage Card” card will benefit the members directly in their business and empower its members in their marketing, sourcing, contracting and lowest possible B2B purchases enhancing their profitability.

ATOAI President, Ajeet Bajaj said “Proud to be a part of this fantastic community. It has always been our endeavor to provide value to our membership and ensure that our members benefit from being a part of ATOAI. We plan to add more benefits for our members and we hope we can scale new adventure heights together as a team for the Adventure Tourism industry in India.

It was a High Tea event and members from all across the country attended both through physical and virtual mode. Friends from the travel trade media also attended in big numbers. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by the Honorary Secretary, Mr. Ronny Singh Gulati.

ATOAI held it’s Annual General Meeting 21-22 & Elections 22-24 on 21st September 2022 at The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa. Mr. Rajiv Kohli, the returning officer announced the ATOAI new team of Office Bearers & Executive Committee

The ATOAI organised a Members Meet to felicitate Mr. Ajeet Bajaj and his daughter Ms. Deeya Bajaj on 8th September 2022 at the Delhi Gymkhana

Club, New Delhi. Mr. Ajeet Bajaj and Ms. Deeya Bajaj are the first Indian & the first Asian parent–child duo to complete “Seven Summits”. The duo summited Mount Denali (North America) on June 5th this year marking the last summit of their “Seven Summits”.

The Seven Summits include – 1) Mt. Everest in Asia, 2) Mt. Aconcagua in South America, 3) Mt. Denali in North America, Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa, Mt. Elbrus in

Europe, Mt. Vinson in Antarctica, and Mt. Kosciuszko in Australia (Mt. Kosciuszko is considered an exceptional mountaineering challenge, first achieved in 1985 by Richard Bass, an American mountaineer).

A fun filled evening over Cocktails & Dinner was organised by ATOAI and was attended by its members, travel trade media and senior members of the travel trade from various associations like OTOAI, FAITH, IATO, ICPB.

The event started with a visual presentation by Mr. Ajeet Bajaj followed by networking amongst the members.

Felicitation Meet With ADG Ms. Rupinder Brar

The ATOAI Women’s Collective, Arshdeep Anand, Chairperson AWC, along with AWC team members, Akanksha Garg, Guneet Puri, & Manager ATOAI Secretariat, Sonam Bhutia, celebrated the appointment of Ms. Rupinder Brar as the Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism, and felicitated Ms. Brar for her immense contribution to the Indian Tourism. Ms. Brar has handheld the industry colleagues through the toughest phase of Covid 19 & encouraged them to keep moving on by supporting their initiatives through ‘Dekho Apna Desh.

The felicitation meet was the second in the series held on 27th April 2022 at Transport Bhawan, Ministry of Tourism. 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1b4TmcAH3CCT7jsl5rk6pdoxPiDVsQI9T/view?usp=sharing