Aroma Trip: A Journey into Sustainable Essential Oil Practices
We started planning the Aroma Trip in 2018 to create an immersive experience that showcases the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich plant diversity. Between 2018 and 2024, we conducted smaller trips with a few participants, refining the experience. The first official Aroma Trip took place from October 19-27, 2024, with 23 aromatherapy professionals from China. Held in Solukhumbu, a mountainous district and home to Annapurna Aroma’s organic-certified production site, the trip allowed participants to explore rare herbs like Artemisia, Rhododendron, and Wintergreen while witnessing the onsite distillation of leaves and flowers, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s botanical wealth.
This Trip aims to:
- Raise awareness of Himalayan biodiversity and its preservation.
- Foster eco-tourism and provide alternative income sources for local farmers.
- Promote sustainability in essential oil production. Empower and uplift local communities through education and involvement.
- Build bridges between farmers and consumers for greater transparency.
- Celebrate and preserve the cultural heritage of Himalayan communities.
Key Activities
- Wild-craft Collection
- Scenic Treks
- Hands-on Workshops
- Cultural Insights
Highlights & Community Involvement
- Participants donated copies and supplies to the local school, as well as aid to victims of floods and landslides.
- Five Community Forest User Groups (CFUGs) participated and observed the activities.
- Participants trekked up to 3,800 meters during the trip.
- They observed wildcraft harvesting, the distillation process, and learned how essential oils are produced.
Following the success of our first trip, Aroma Trip 2025 will take place in March-April, offering the perfect opportunity to witness Calamus and Sandalwood, and again in September-November, when Spikenard, Rhododendron, and Himalayan Silver Fir are in season. By reflecting on our initial trip, we aim to make this year even better, creating a space for diverse industries to connect.