Responsible/Sustainable Tourism
The Grand Dragon, Ladakh has been in operation for nearly five decades. Built in the traditional Ladakhi style, it conforms to green architectural standards.
No Single Use Plastic: All rooms and dining areas offer RO water in glass bottles thereby reducing plastic use. Additionally bulk purchasing is practiced. Bathroom and room amenities include use of bamboo products.
Safe Garbage Disposal: Garbage is segregated with wet waste being donated to a dog shelter, and other waste is sent for recycling.
Water Conservation: Water conservation is practiced through special flushes and aerators in taps that reduce water consumption. Additionally recycled grey water is used for gardening purposes.
Energy Efficiency: Sunlight that is abundant in this region is welcome with the use of large windows. Additionally, the staff quarters are equipped with solar heaters.
Local Community Engagement: Amongst the early hotels in Ladakh, the community engagement is high with nearly half the staff employed locally. Additionally, local businesses are used as suppliers for ingredients, groceries, meats and dairy and preference is given to local suppliers for other tourism related activities. By using local art as decor, it has ensured that local artists have been engaged.
Sensitive Destination Discovery: The Grand Dragon was amongst the early hotels to open in Ladakh and there was an emphasis right from the beginning to showcase Ladakh’s unique culture through the experiences offered.
Heritage Preservation: Built in the traditional Ladakhi style, the hotel dips into the local heritage and culture for decor. One can see examples of Ladakhi ceilings and teak wood cornices and flooring in the rooms. The decor includes elegant teak ceilings, artistic walls that portray the authentic jewellery of the region, and regional motifs in the furnishings. Experiences include The Momo Story, designed to learn to make momos – an intrinsic staple in this region, understanding traditional medicine and insights in to this unique culture.
Human Touch: The hotel follows a policy of no gender bias, fair wages and practices for employees.
