Madhya Pradesh's Pranpur, Sabarvani, Ladpura: Best Tourism Villages

Madhya Pradesh has once again shown its prominence in the national tourism arena. The Central Ministry of Tourism has announced that the villages of Pranpur, Sabarvani, and Ladpura Khas in the state have been declared the best tourism villages in the country. Pranpur has been selected in the craft category, while Sabarvani and Ladpura Khas have been recognized for responsible tourism. These villages were honoured at a ceremony in New Delhi on September 27th, which coincides with World Tourism Day.

Ms Bidisha Mukherjee, the Additional Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, received this honour along with rural representatives. The Union Ministry of Tourism organizes the Best Tourism Village Competition to promote community-based values and lifestyle while preserving cultural and natural resources.

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."

Will Gain Global Recognition

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 for posterity, including our ancient arts, crafts, and traditions. Notably, 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."

Brief description of villages awarded as Best Tourism Village

Tourism Village Sabarvani

Explore the Gond tribal village of Sabarvani, situated in the buffer zone of Satpura National Park. Experience the peacefulness of nature and rural life at traditional homestays. Wake up to beautiful farmlands, the sounds of birds, and the stunning mountains. Activities include village walks, farming, bullock cart rides, fishing, bird-watching, cycling, and cultural experiences. Enjoy local dishes like Makke ki Roti, Chane ki Bhaji, and Chana Dal, and watch traditional dances such as the Sela Dance, Fadravi Dance, Bhajans, and Kirtan.

Tourism Village Ladpura Khas

Ladpura Khas is a village 8 km from Orchha. It offers a mix of rural life, local culture, and natural beauty. Ladpura Khas is the first Rural Tourism Village under the Responsible Tourism Mission. Visitors can stay in homestays with traditional architecture and hand-painted walls, participate in cultural experiences with the local tribal community, and explore the natural landscapes, including rolling hills and fields.

Pranpur – India’s First Craft Handloom Tourism Village

Pranpur is India's first Craft Handloom Tourism Village, 4 km from Chanderi. The village is known for its weaving tradition and is home to approximately 5500 residents. Around 900 weavers skillfully craft Chanderi cloth on about 550 handlooms spread across 243 houses. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board aims to offer visitors a comprehensive tourist experience beyond the usual sightseeing in Chanderi. The plan includes immersing visitors in the history and culture of Chanderi, along with a memorable textile tourism experience at Pranpur.