MP’s Pranpur, Sabarvani and Ladpura recognised as Best Tourism Villages

The Central Ministry of Tourism has announced that Madhya Pradesh's Pranpur, Sabarvani, and Ladpura Khas 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 recognised for responsible tourism. These villages were honoured at a ceremony in New Delhi on September 27, which coincides with World Tourism Day.

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

Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Department and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, stated, "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." 

Mukherjee added, "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 revitalise 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." 

The Gond tribal village of Sabarvani, nestled in the Satpura National Park buffer zone offers simplicity of nature and rural living at traditional homestays. The mornings unfold with farmlands, resonating bird melodies, and the surrounding mountains. Activities include village walks, farming, bullock cart rides, fishing, bird-watching, cycling, and cultural immersion. Local delicacies offered include, Makke ki Roti, Chane ki Bhaji, and Chana Dal along with traditional dances including Sela Dance, Fadravi Dance, Bhajans, and Kirtan. 

Ladpura Khas offers a unique blend of rural life, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. As the first Rural Tourism Village under the Responsible Tourism Mission, Ladpura Khas provides guests with a truly authentic Bundeli experience. Travellers can enjoy the cosy homestays with traditional architecture and hand-painted walls, immersive cultural experiences with the local tribal community and stunning natural landscapes including rolling hills and lush fields 

Pranpur is India’s First Craft Handloom Tourism Village renowned for its vibrant handloom weaving tradition. The village is home to approximately 5500 residents and boasts around 900 weavers who skillfully craft Chanderi cloth on about 550 handlooms spread across 243 houses. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board envisions a comprehensive tourist experience beyond the conventional sightseeing offered in Chanderi. The ambitious plan includes immersing visitors in the rich history and culture of Chanderi, along with a memorable textile tourism experience at Pranpur.