Madhya Pradesh has once again emerged as a beacon of tourism excellence in India, with the recent recognition of three of its villages—Pranpur, Sabarvani, and Ladpura Khas—by the Union Ministry of Tourism. This prestigious honour celebrates their unique blend of heritage, community engagement, and sustainable tourism practices, making them stand out as model rural tourism destinations in India.
Union Tourism Ministry Honors the Best Tourism Villages
On September 27th, coinciding with World Tourism Day, these villages were honoured in a grand ceremony held in New Delhi. The Additional Managing Director (AMD) of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Ms. Bidisha Mukherjee, along with rural representatives from each village, accepted the awards on behalf of their communities. This recognition is part of the Union Ministry of Tourism’s Best Tourism Village Competition, which aims to promote rural tourism by highlighting villages that preserve their cultural and natural resources while fostering community-based values and sustainable lifestyles.
Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Department and Managing Director Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla said “We are delighted that Pranpur, Sabarwani, and Ladpura Khas have been recognized as the best tourism villages in our state. This award highlights our dedication to fostering rural tourism. These villages have successfully preserved their unique cultural heritage while simultaneously empowering the local community through tourism. We are committed to expanding this initiative to ensure that more rural areas can benefit from tourism and gain recognition on a global scale.”
Pranpur – A Craft Handloom Tourism Village
Pranpur, located 4 kilometres from Chanderi, is renowned as India’s First Craft Handloom Tourism Village. This picturesque village, home to around 5,500 residents, is particularly famous for its rich tradition of handloom weaving. With 900 skilled weavers working on 550 handlooms, Pranpur produces some of the finest Chanderi cloth, a unique textile celebrated across the country.
The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board envisions an experience that goes beyond traditional sightseeing in Chanderi, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the rich history and vibrant culture of the region. A tour of Pranpur allows visitors to witness firsthand the delicate artistry involved in Chanderi weaving, as they explore the intricate process of textile production, from spinning to weaving, and engage with the local artisans. This initiative not only helps preserve the ancient craft but also promotes economic empowerment by providing sustainable livelihoods to the community.
Pranpur’s recognition in the craft category of the Best Tourism Village Competition is a significant achievement, further solidifying its reputation as a hub of traditional Indian craftsmanship. Visitors to Pranpur can expect a culturally immersive experience, with opportunities to purchase authentic handwoven Chanderi textiles directly from the weavers, ensuring that their contribution directly supports the local economy.
Sabarvani – A Serene Gond Tribal Village
Sabarvani, nestled in the buffer zone of the Satpura National Park, offers a peaceful escape into the simplicity of tribal village life. This Gond tribal village is an embodiment of responsible tourism, where visitors can experience rural living through traditional homestays that reflect the simplicity and serenity of the region.
Guests are greeted with picturesque farmlands, rolling mountains, and an abundance of birdlife, making bird-watching one of the most popular activities in Sabarvani. The village offers a variety of experiential activities, including village walks, bullock cart rides, fishing, and farming experiences. Sabarvani’s natural beauty, combined with its strong commitment to preserving its indigenous culture, makes it an attractive destination for tourists seeking authentic rural experiences.
Visitors can also savour local delicacies such as Makke ki Roti and Chane ki Bhaji while enjoying traditional tribal dances like Sela Dance and Fadravi Dance. Sabarvani’s approach to tourism is deeply rooted in cultural immersion, ensuring that guests not only enjoy the village’s scenic beauty but also gain a profound understanding of Gond tribal traditions and lifestyle.
This village’s recognition in the responsible tourism category highlights its role in promoting sustainable tourism practices while preserving its natural environment and cultural heritage. With its tranquil ambience and a strong sense of community, Sabarvani is poised to become a leading destination for tourists seeking an authentic rural escape.
Ladpura Khas – A Jewel of Rural Tourism
Situated just 8 kilometres from Orchha, Ladpura Khas is the first village under the Responsible Tourism Mission to be awarded in the Best Tourism Village competition. Ladpura Khas offers a unique combination of rural charm, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a peaceful getaway.
The village is known for its traditional architecture, featuring hand-painted walls and cosy homestays, providing visitors with an authentic Bundeli experience. Ladpura Khas also prides itself on its strong connection to the local tribal community, offering guests the opportunity to participate in a wide range of cultural activities, including traditional folk dances and cooking classes.
The lush fields and rolling hills that surround the village add to its appeal, offering visitors a chance to engage in nature walks, cycling, and photography. Ladpura Khas is more than just a picturesque village; it’s a model of responsible tourism, where the local community plays an integral role in creating a welcoming and sustainable tourism environment.
By promoting community-led tourism, Ladpura Khas has successfully integrated tourism into its daily life, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are felt by all members of the village. This recognition is expected to further enhance Ladpura’s tourism prospects, attracting both domestic and international tourists in the years to come.
The Impact of Recognition on Rural Tourism
The recognition of Pranpur, Sabarvani, and Ladpura Khas as Best Tourism Villages is not only a victory for the state of Madhya Pradesh but also a beacon for other rural regions across India. The success of these villages in promoting sustainable tourism, while preserving their cultural heritage and empowering local communities, sets a powerful example of how tourism can be a force for positive change.
AMD Ms Bidisha Mukherjee said “This prestigious award will elevate Pranpur, Sabarwani, and Ladpura Khas to international prominence. We anticipate a surge in both domestic and foreign tourism which will stimulate job growth and revitalize the local economy. Moreover, it will safeguard our rich cultural heritage including our ancient arts, crafts, and traditions for posterity. It is noteworthy that in 2023, Madla village in Panna district was awarded the Gold category and Khokhar village in Sidhi district was awarded the Bronze category in the Best Tourism Village competition.”
Conclusion
The recognition of Pranpur, Sabarvani, and Ladpura Khas as India’s Best Tourism Villages is a testament to Madhya Pradesh’s commitment to fostering rural tourism. These villages, with their rich cultural heritage, sustainable tourism practices, and strong community involvement, represent the future of tourism in India.
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