UN Lists Chhattisgarh’s Bastar Village as Tourism Destination

The small village of Dhudmaras, located in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, has been selected by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for its Best Tourism Village Upgrade programme. This programme highlights villages with potential for sustainable tourism development and aims to enhance local tourism infrastructure, promote cultural heritage, and improve residents’ quality of life.

Key Points

UNWTO Recognition

• Dhudmaras was selected from over 260 applications worldwide for the Best Tourism Village Upgrade programme.

Location and Natural Beauty

• The village is situated within Kanger Valley National Park, surrounded by dense forests and the Kanger River, making it a prime eco-tourism destination.

Cultural and Natural Richness

• The village is known for its rich culture, traditional lifestyle, local cuisine, and vibrant biodiversity.

Tourism Infrastructure Support

• As part of the upgrade programme, Dhudmaras will receive support to develop its tourism infrastructure and cultural heritage while enhancing the residents’ living standards.

Adventure Tourism Recognition

• Earlier in the year, the Union Ministry of Tourism awarded Dhudmaras in the Adventure Tourism category at the Best Tourism Village competition.

Tourism Development Initiatives

• The Chhattisgarh government is improving roads, transport facilities, and promoting local handicrafts in global markets to boost tourism in the area.

Local Homestays and Cultural Experiences

• Dhudmaras residents offer homestays, guided tours, traditional food, camping, trekking, and birdwatching activities, providing tourists with an authentic experience of tribal life.

Training and Capacity Building

• Local youth from 40 Dhurwa Tribe families have been trained in activities such as kayaking, bamboo rafting, and trekking to diversify tourism experiences.

Sustainable Practices

• The village uses locally available natural resources, such as bamboo and mud, to build rafts, dustbins, mud houses, and leaf platters, promoting sustainability.