Rural Tourism
India

BEST TOURISM VILLAGE

2023

Issue

Central Nodal Agency for
Rural Tourism India

Rural Tourism is defined as the tourist activities happening in rural environments including rural life, culture, art, heritage, etc. leading to an enriched tourist experience. It focuses on making the local communities economically independent. Rural Touri sm has been recognized as a very effective way of providing experiential travel. It al so helps rural communities by increasing their income levels and preserving the local art forms.

Villages are the backbone of India's Rural Tourism. The heart of Rural Tourism Villages is the Indian village's deep-rooted culture, nature, art, craft, heritage, traditions, customs, costumes, lifestyle, etc. These Rural Villages help to gain knowledge on agriculture, farming, local governance etc.
The rapid and fast-moving urban life urges people to move towards rural areas in search of escapism. Rural Tourism villages are the best place to spend some quality time away from the hustle and bustle with their family relaxing in calm surroundings, interacting with each other, engaging in age-old traditions, experiencing ethnicity, and creating memories.

Village Name: Dawar
District Name: Bandipora
State Name: Jammu & Kashmir

Nestled in Jammu & Kashmir's Bandipora district, Dawar village captivates with its blend of tribal Shina culture, Habba Khatoon mountain's splendour, and historic wooden log houses. With about 4253 residents, Dawar harmonizes tradition and progress. This village treasures its cultural roots through language, practices, and the Habba Khatoon dramatic club. Know More

Village Name: Sarmoli
District Name: Pithoragarh
State Name: Uttarakhand

Sarmoli Village boasts a vibrant cultural tapestry and natural beauty that has been harnessed to create a sustainable livelihood for its community. The village hosts over 30 homestays, collectively welcoming around 5,000 annual tourists. Local women, often from diverse backgrounds, manage these homestays and offer cultural and natureguiding experiences. Through initiatives like the Mesar Forest Festival and Himal Kalasutra Festival, Sarmoli showcases its unique heritage, making it a beacon of authentic and responsible rural tourism. Know More

Village Name: Reiek Village
District Name: Mamit
State Name: Mizoram

Reiek, a mountain and popular tourist destination located 29 km away from Aizawl in Mizoram, India, sits at an impressive height of 1,465 meters. From this elevated vantage point, visitors can admire the stunning vistas of Aizawl and the picturesque valleys and hills that surround it. On clear days, the breathtaking view even extends to the plains of Bangladesh. The entire landscape is enveloped by dense, vibrant temperate trees and lush green bushes, adding to the natural beauty and allure of Reiek Hill. Know More

Village Name: Kanthalloor Village
District Name: Idukki
State Name: Kerala

Kanthalloor in Idukki district, nestled amidst the Western Ghats along the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, is often called the "Kashmir of Kerala" due to its serene, cool climate. Kanthalloor village weaves cultural richness with environmental beauty. Anamudi National Park, Munnar's charm, and wildlife sanctuaries enhance its allure. Kanthalloor's future focuses on themed streets, infrastructure, and quality, exemplifying holistic development. It embodies economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental harmony, emerging as a model of responsible progress.Know More

Village Name: Madla
District Name: Panna
State Name: Madhya Pradesh

Madla is a rare village in India to have all three natural geography features in a kilometre. Asia's cleanest river Karnawati (Ken) flows through the village. The community's awareness of natural resources is incredible. Madla is just 10 km away from the Pandava Falls and Caves which is near the Panna National Park and Khajuraho - the UNESCO site is just 19 kilometres. Some intangible heritage of the village includes folk music &and dance, local festivals and Bundelkhand cuisine. The architecture of the houses still has the essence of the village.

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Village Name: Lepakshi
District Name: Sri Sathya Sai
State Name: Andhra Pradesh

Lepakshi village, located in Andhra Pradesh, is full of history and culture. It has ancient temples like the Veerabhadra Swamy Temple and a huge Monolithic Nandi Statue. It is known for its architectural heritage of the Vijayanagar style. Apart from its heritage, it is also known for its handicrafts, puppetry, and natural attractions.Know More

Village Name: Shergaon
District Name: West Kameng
State Name: Arunachal Pradesh

Shergaonis a charming village nestled in a fertile valley surrounded by three streams. Shergaon's picturesque landscape fosters a rich environment for horticulture, boasting walnuts, kiwis, pomegranates, and a variety of apples. The village is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, hosting festivals like Choekar, Losar, and Khik SabaKnow More

Village Name: Sarodhadodar
District Name: Kabirdham
State Name: Chhattisgarh

Sarodhadodar, like many other villages in Chhattisgarh, is likely to provide a tranquil and attractive environment, surrounded by lush foliage, farms, and a pleasant atmosphere. The area's stunning natural surroundings serve as a draw for tourists looking for a peaceful retreat from city life.

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Village Name: Kalpeni
District Name: Lakshadweep District
State Name: Lakshadweep

Kalpeni Village is famous for blue water, coral reefs, and sea animals. The village has white beaches and tall palm trees, making it calm and pretty.The village offers a glimpse into the rich culture of the local Maldivian community, with traditional practices and warm hospitality.Itwas here that girls first went to school when women's education was considered taboo.Know More

Village Name: Hemis
District Name: Leh
State Name: Ladakh

Hemis is well known for the Hemis monastery which was established in 1672 AD by King Sengge Namgyal. The village hosts a colourful festival held in July. It is close to the Hemis National Park, an area that is home to the endangered snow leopard.Know More

Village Name: Menar
District Name: Udaipur
State Name: Rajasthan

Menar Village, located near Udaipur, is a cultural and ecological treasure in India. With its 400- year-old heritage of battles, ancient temples, and serene lakes, Menar captivates visitors. Home to over 150 bird species, including migratory ones, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts.

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Village Name: Pembarthy
District Name: Jangoan
State Name: Telangana

Pembarthy Villageis an emerging gem in the rural tourism landscape. Renowned for its metal craft, which earned a Geographical Indication tag, Pembarthy boasts over 140 artisan households dedicated to this intricate art. As a gateway to historic temples, forts, and scenic attractions, Pembarthy is charting a path towards rural development, leveraging its traditions for a vibrant future.Know More

Village Name: Khijadiya
District Name: Jamnagar
State Name: Gujrat

Khijadiya villageis a serene haven that boasts the remarkable Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary. Spanning 605 hectares of marshy wetlands and mangroves, this sanctuary provides a haven for over 310 bird species, making it a cherished destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.Know More

Village Name: Kurauana
District Name: Varanasi
State Name: Uttar Pradesh

Kaurauna Village, located in Varanasi, is a picturesque destination renowned for its rural tourism charm. With a population of 1749, the village's primary occupations include agriculture and religious tourism. Notable attractions include the revered Rameswar Temple and the tranquil Varuna Riverfront.

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Village Name: Raghurajpur
District Name: Puri
State Name: Odisha

Raghurajpur is a heritage crafts village in Puri district, India, renowned for its Pattachitra painters and Gotipua dance troupes.The village also excels in crafts like Tussar paintings, Palm leaf Engravings, Stone carvings, Wood carvings, Cowdung toys, and Papier mache toys and masks.Know More

Village Name: Biswanath
District Name: Biswanath Ghat
State Name: Assam

Biswanath, a picturesque villagethis vibrant community thrives on fishing, cultivation, and boating. Biswanath's charm lies in its river tourism, a spiritual journey to the ancient Gupta Kashi Biswanath temple, and a boat-side view of the famed Kaziranga National Park. Know More

Village Name: Devka
District Name: Daman
State Name: Dadar Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu

Devka thrives on fishing as its main occupation. The village boasts a plethora of tourist attractions, including Devka Beach, Jampore Beach, and the serene Light House Beach. Its rich cultural tapestry is woven with festivals like Adirang and captivating traditional dances.

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Village Name: Cotigao
District Name: South Goa
State Name: Goa

The village is known for its rich history and connection to the Velip community, one of the earliest settlers in Goa. Surrounded by the lush landscapes of the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, the village boasts breathtaking seasonal waterfalls and ancient temples dedicated to Shri Mallikarjun.Know More

Village Name: Talao
District Name: Jhajjar
State Name: Haryana

Talao village has harnessed its agricultural heritage and cultural richness to create a unique tourism experience. With a focus on economic, social, and environmental aspects, Talao has seamlessly integrated local farmers, artisans, and craftsmen into its tourism ecosystem, showcasing indigenous traditions, art forms, and agricultural practices.Know More

Village Name: Chitkul
District Name: Kinnaur
State Name: Himachal Pradesh

This village thrives on tourism, agriculture, animal husbandry, and the government sector. Discover traditional wooden homestays, vibrant culture, folk dances, and songs that still echo with enthusiasm.

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Village Name: McCluskieganj
District Name: Ranchi
State Name: Jharkhand

TMcCluskieganj village has become a potential hotspot for tourists seeking an authentic rural experience. From its historical Anglo-Indian architecture to its vibrant arts and crafts tradition, McCluskieganj offers a unique blend of culture and natural beauty. Know More

Village Name: Hampi
District Name: Vijayanagara
State Name: Karnataka

Hampi is known for its historical and cultural significance, as it houses several ancient temples, forts, palaces, and other architectural wonders. Hampi, situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts many tourists each year.Know More

Village Name: Khokhara
District Name: Sidhi
State Name: Madhya Pradesh

Khokhara village, nestled in a lush green forest and surrounded by majestic mountains and deep caves, offers a mesmerizing experience for tourists. The rich culture, traditions, and sustainable lifestyle of the Gond & Baiga tribes here create a unique charm.

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