A village named Dhudmaras in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh has been selected by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) for its Best Tourism Village Upgrade programme, marking its potential for sustainable tourism development.

Under the UNWTO initiative, 55 villages across the world received recognition of Best Tourism Village this year. Another 20 villages, including Dhudmaras, have been selected for the Best Tourism Village Upgrade program. Through this initiative, they’ll get the support they need to improve local tourism infrastructure, celebrate their cultural heritage, and raise the quality of life for the people who live there.

Dhudmaras is a village located in the heart of Kanger Valley National Park. Located in thick forests with the Kanger River flowing through, Dhudmaras is a great place for eco-tourism. It’s known for its beautiful nature, wildlife, traditional lifestyle, and tasty local food.

"Among 260 applications from over 60 countries for the Upgrade program, Dhudmaras was selected for its cultural and natural richness, as well as its high potential to become a leading example of a top-tier rural destination," said Vivek Acharya, MD of the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board.

Dhudmaras and four other villages were awarded in the Adventure Tourism category of the Best Tourism Village competition earlier this year. Chhattisgarh government is also working in other areas including fostering tourism, improving roads and transport facilities in the area, as well as promoting local handicrafts in global markets.
The people of Dhudmaras provide homestays and other lodging options and also act as guides, taking tourists on tours of the area. They offer a range of experiences, including traditional food, camping, trekking, and bird watching.

With support from the Tourism and Forest Departments, young members from 40 families of the local Dhurwa Tribe have been trained to offer kayaking, bamboo rafting, and trekking experiences. Visitors can also stay in homestays where they get a chance to experience traditional tribal life, learn about local crafts, and take part in festivals.