Over the last few years, the travel industry has seen quite a boom. What used to be mere recreation earlier, is now also a way to find yourself, learn more about the world around you, and explore different cultures, all at once. This also means that we’ve gone from simply visiting a picturesque location to signing up for interesting experiences like understanding local culture and food or engaging in the wellness practices of the area. This has also brought many smaller, relatively unexplored places to the forefront.
In 2023, the Government of India realised the potential of this trend and started the Best Tourism Villages Competition. This year too, 991 applications were received, and 36 winners across 8 categories were declared. These categories range from adventure to heritage to agriculture. The festive season is upon us, and in case you haven’t picked destinations to explore on the long weekends it’ll bring, we suggest you take a look at these 7 villages which are included in the 36 that are being awarded by the Tourism Ministry on World Tourism Day, 27th September, 2024.
1. Aru in Jammu & Kashmir for adventure tourism
One of the most scenic places to visit in Kashmir, Aru is situated in the Anantnag district. Aru being chosen in the adventure category for the Best Tourism Villages Competition is pretty perfect if you ask us. In summers, it serves as a base camp for treks to Kolahoi Glacier, the Tarsar-Marsar lakes and the Katrinag valley. It is also the starting point for treks to Lidderwat, the Vishansar-Kishansar lakes and Kangan.
In winters, when the snowfall is heavy, Aru turns into a heaven for skiing and heliskiing. These adventure sports are one of the biggest sources of income for Aru residents, and the village has developed keeping the tourism potential in mind.
Apart from Aru, other villages that won in the adventure category are Dhudmaras in Chattisgarh, Kuthlur in Karnataka, and Jakhol in Uttarakhand.
2. Karde in Maharashtra for agricultural tourism
Situated in the Ratnagiri belt, Karde is home to many cashew nut, betelnut, coconut, and jackfruit plantations, apart from the world-famous Alphonso mangoes. The village is in Dapoli, and apart from exploring these plantations, one can also visit numerous beaches in the region. Karde Beach also turns home for migratory birds every year, and if you like ridley turtles, a quick 40 km drive will also let you witness them in action at Velas.
This is also home to the Harnai fish market, which is often believed to be one of the biggest fish trading hubs in Maharashtra.
Apart from Karde, other winners in the agriculture category are Kumarakoram in Kerala, Supi in Uttarakhand, Baranagar in West Bengal, and Hansali in Punjab.
3. Minicoy Island in Lakshadweep for community-based tourism
Culturally rich, the Minicoy Island in Lakshadweep is a destination you have to visit to believe. What is very well known about Lakshadweep is its serene landscapes, what is not known is its heritage. When on Minicoy Island, one can witness the rhythmic lava dance, learn the local tuna fishing practices, and experience the lively culture.
Every year, a National Minicoy Fest is also organised by the government to showcase the culture, and from races to food stalls to local sports, it has everything you can enjoy.
Apart from Minicoy Island, other category winners are Chitrakote in Chattisgarh, Sialsuk in Mizoram, Deomali in Rajasthan, and Alpana Gram in Tripura.
4. Maniabandha in Odisha for craft tourism
It’d be fair to say that Indian crafts are best practised in villages, making it a very important category in rural tourism. Maniabandha in Odisha is home to the skilled artisans who weave the Maniabandha Pata sarees. It has been steadily making its mark in the rural tourism-scape, and its proximity to Cuttack which is another big crafts centre, only makes it better.
Apart from Maniabandha, other villages that won in this category are Sualkuchi in Assam, Pranpur in Madhya Pradesh, Umden in Meghalaya, and Nirmal in Telangana.
5. Keeladi in Tamil Nadu for heritage tourism
Indian villages are rich in heritage, and while some heritage structures like Charaideo Maidam have been internationally recognised, there are many others that are still in the process. Keeladi in Tamil Nadu happens to fall under the second category. An ASI excavation site, this village has been instrumental in furthering our understanding of the Sangam Age period, and with the museum in place, is a must-visit for history lovers. Not only does it have artefacts from these excavations on display, it is also constructed in a traditional Chettinad style, making it an even better opportunity to experience the local heritage.
Apart from Keeladi, other villages that made it to the heritage category happen to be Hafeshwar in Gujarat, Andro in Manipur, Mawphlang in Meghalaya, and Pura Mahadev in Uttar Pradesh.
6. Tar Village in Ladakh for responsible tourism
While Ladakh has seen rapid tourism growth, some good, and some, well unsustainable, efforts are constantly underway to retain the pristine state of the Himalayas, all while letting people explore the vibrant colours of the region. Tar village is an interesting destination for responsible and sustainable tourism. This village in Ladakh doesn’t have road connectivity. The last spot is Nurla, and post that it’s a 2 hour hike.
Once you get to Tar, you can experience the Ladakhi hospitality, soak in the beautiful views, and visit the local monastery. Oh, and if you’re lucky, depending on the season, your 2-hour hike can be lined with wild lavender.
Apart from Tar, other villages to make the cut for responsible tourism are Kadalundi in Kerala, Sabarvani and Ladpura Khas in Madhya Pradesh.
7. Bandora in Goa for spiritual and wellness tourism
If you thought Goa was all beaches and partying, well, Bandora is here to prove you wrong. Situated in the Ponda Taluka, Bandora is famous not only for its stunning views, and lush greenery but also as a revered spiritual site. Shri Nagueshi Temple, Shri Ramnath Devisthan, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Fort are the most important tourist spots here. But while you’re here, do explore the nearby Butterfly Conservatory of Goa.
Apart from Bandora, the spiritual and wellness tourism category also includes Ahobilam in Andhra Pradesh, Rikhiapeeth in Jharkhand, Melkalingam Patti in Tamil Nadu, and Somasila in Telangana.
Apart from these, Harsil and Gunji in Uttarakhand were awarded as vibrant villages. Tell us in the comments if you’ve been to any of these places, and if not, where do you plan to visit first!