Jammu, September 2024: The journey towards green consciousness begins with a single responsible step, and when an entire community embraces this mindset, the collective impact is profound—creating a sustainable path for future generations.
In Jammu’s quaint hill station Patnitop, Skyview by Empyrean has taken the lead when it comes to adopting sustainable practices across its 22-acre property and preserving the local environment through eco-friendly initiatives. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Pir Panjal range, lush green meadows, and verdant forests, this luxurious escape is India’s first Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI) certified sustainable tourism destination!
Here’s how this premium destination is setting a new standard for sustainable tourism in Jammu and across India.
Reducing Carbon Footprint
By road, the driving distance between Sanget Valley and Patnitop is approximately 45 minutes. However, the Skyview green gondola that glides between the two destinations has reduced the distance for commuters by 35 km, taking only 10-13 minutes one way! The net zero ropeway has considerably reduced traffic as well as air and noise pollution in the region. While constructing the 2.8 km-long stretch over the Shivalik range of the Himalayas, the natural beauty and landscape of the region were left untouched as not even a single tree was damaged or cut down. To ensure that the local flora and fauna remained undisturbed in their habitat, the height of all towers was raised accordingly.
Eco-friendly Design and Water Conservation
The administrative building and terminals at Skyview by Empyrean feature integrated rainwater collection and harvesting systems. The collected rainwater is recycled and utilized in restroom facilities, luxury stays for guests, and for landscaping. A dedicated water treatment facility on the property further recycles rainwater, ensuring efficient usage. The Banana Leaf restaurant, Luxury stays, and other buildings on the premises have eco-friendly and energy efficient architectural designs that minimize the environmental impact of the development.
Commitment to Sustainable Luxury
On the premises of this 22-acre mountain harbour, luxury and sustainability happily coexist! The staff, through the use of in-house biodegradable cutlery and digital menus, has embraced the concept of minimal waste. Local vendors supply fresh, organically grown fruits, vegetables and other ingredients used in the kitchens.
To further enhance its commitment to sustainability, Skyview by Empyrean offers battery-operated cars to transport guests throughout the property. These eco-friendly vehicles are available on demand, ensuring convenient and seamless movement while significantly reducing the environmental impact. By using these electric cars, the destination minimizes both noise and air pollution, maintaining the tranquility and natural beauty of the surroundings. This initiative not only aligns with the property’s green values but also provides guests with a comfortable and environmentally responsible mode of transport.
Combined with the use of battery-operated cars for internal transport, the availability of EV charging stations strengthens the property’s commitment to promoting eco-friendly practices. These efforts are designed to minimize the environmental impact of tourism while offering guests a luxury experience that aligns with responsible travel standards.
Hands of Gold, the store housed at Skyview by Empyrean celebrates local artisans keeping alive their generations old skills in creating authentic, hand-made, organic products, all sourced locally from Jammu. This has contributed to the local community having a stable livelihood, which in turn has positively impacted the economy in the region.
So, when you are in Patnitop next, don’t forget to drop by Skyview by Empyrean and experience for yourself sustainable luxury at its best!
