On the occasion of International Tourism Day, the central government has awarded the title of ‘Best Tourism Village’ to three villages in Madhya Pradesh: Pranpur, Sabarvani, and Ladpura Khas, recognizing their efforts in promoting tourism through sustainability and community engagement.
Pranpur, located in Ashoknagar district, has received the accolade in the Craft category, while Sabarvani in Chhindwara district and Ladpura Khas in Niwari district were honored in the Responsible Tourism category. These recognitions were part of the Best Tourism Villages competition 2024, organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
The initiative to identify and promote villages that uphold cultural and natural heritage through sustainable practices was launched in 2023. This year, the competition received 991 applications from 30 states and union territories, culminating in 36 villages being recognized across eight categories.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has congratulated the people of the state and the team of the Tourism Department on the selection of three villages of Madhya Pradesh, Pranpur, Sawarvani and Ladpura Khas as the ‘Best Tourism Village’ of the country by the Union Tourism Ministry.”
Sabarvani village, located six kilometers within the Tamia development block of Chhindwara district, has transformed into a tourism hub since 2019. With around 300 houses, it has welcomed over 300 international tourists, who come to experience its culture and traditional cuisine.
Visitors from South Africa, France, Europe, Russia, Canada, and the United Kingdom have actively participated in local agricultural practices and animal husbandry during their stays.
The village prides itself on cleanliness and offers essential facilities, making it an ideal tourist destination. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Anhoni Hot Spring, Anhoni Fair, Saptadhara, Khara Water Divine Pool, Ghoghra Waterfall, and the hills of Mauni Baba with Jhigariya Waterfall, all in close proximity to the buffer zone of Satpura National Park.
Tourists can enjoy comprehensive meal packages and partake in unique experiences, including bullock cart rides, cow milking, small agricultural tasks, and trekking on Monakhedi Hill. Cultural experiences such as devotional music performances and tribal Karma dance troupes further enhance the visitors’ experience.
Pranpur village, approximately four kilometers from the scenic Chanderi, is notable for its weaving tradition, with 243 houses involved in handloom production for generations. More than fifty artisans in the village craft items from bamboo, wood, stone, jewelry, and clay, making it a unique attraction for tourists.
The village infrastructure has been improved with locally sourced stones, allowing visitors to park and explore on foot. Additionally, a “Handloom Cafe” has been established for tourists, alongside a garden featuring an amphitheater for cultural performances.
(Inputs from ANI)
