Friday, September 20, 2024 The Union Tourism Ministry is set to honor four villages in Uttarakhand with the prestigious ‘Best Tourism Village’ Award during a special ceremony in New Delhi on September 27, coinciding with International Tourism Day. This recognition highlights the villages’ exceptional contributions to promoting rural tourism and their commitment to preserving local culture and natural resources. The award is part of the ministry’s annual nationwide ‘Best Tourism Village’ competition, which celebrates rural destinations that excel in sustainable tourism practices.
The competition evaluates participating villages based on a comprehensive set of criteria. These include efforts to preserve and promote cultural heritage, sustainable use of natural resources, community engagement, and the implementation of initiatives that ensure economic, social, and environmental sustainability. This rigorous evaluation process aims to identify and reward villages that not only attract tourists but also maintain the integrity and authenticity of their local traditions and environment.
This year, four villages from Uttarakhand stood out and were selected for the honor. The selection reflects the growing recognition of Uttarakhand’s potential as a leading destination for rural and sustainable tourism. An official from the state tourism department credited Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s vision for establishing Uttarakhand as a premier tourism destination, noting that his efforts are beginning to show tangible results in the state’s tourism sector.
Among the winners, Jakhol village in Uttarkashi district has been recognized for its flourishing adventure tourism scene, offering activities such as trekking and mountaineering, which have become popular among thrill-seekers. Harsil village, known for its scenic beauty and tranquil environment, has been selected in the ‘Vibrant Village’ category for its vibrant local culture and community-based tourism initiatives. Gunji village in Pithoragarh district, also in the ‘Vibrant Village’ category, has been acknowledged for its strategic location along the pilgrimage route to Kailash Mansarovar, which attracts numerous pilgrims and adventure tourists alike.
Additionally, Supi village in Nainital district has been honored for its success in agricultural tourism. The village has effectively leveraged its agricultural heritage, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional farming practices, local cuisine, and a unique rural lifestyle. This focus on agricultural tourism not only provides an alternative source of income for the local community but also promotes sustainable tourism practices that benefit both residents and visitors.
These awards are a testament to the diverse tourism potential of Uttarakhand and the state’s commitment to promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism development..
