TEXT: MR. SHEO SHEKHAR SHUKLA (IAS), PRINCIPAL SECRETARY TOURISM AND CULTURE DEPARTMENT AND MANAGING DIRECTOR, MP TOURISM BOARD images : MP TOURISM BOARD
As the sun rises over the picturesque landscapes of Madhya Pradesh, a symphony of nature’s wonders greets you. The gentle whispers of the wind, the vibrant colours of flora, and the rhythmic melodies of wildlife create a harmonious environment like no other. Embark a transformative journey to the heart of India, where more than 50 eco-friendly rural homestays await, offering an authentic and sustainable experience.
Escape the concrete jungle and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of rural Madhya Pradesh.
These eco-friendly homestays embrace the principles of sustainability, celebrating the delicate balance between humans and the environment. Nestled amidst lush greenery, these havens offer a serene retreat, allowing you to reconnect with nature and recharge your spirits. Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board is dedicated to minimising the carbon footprint in the state and making MP an eco-friendly state for tourists.
Each homestay has been thoughtfully designed to minimize the ecological footprint while providing a comfortable and enriching experience. Constructed using locally sourced materials and traditional techniques, these accommodations blend seamlessly into the landscape, creating a harmonious coexistence with nature. From thatched roofs to mud walls, every aspect reflects a commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of the region. Be a part of the cultural experiences of MP like the tribal dance forms, and local art and crafts, and cherish the local cuisines of the various state tribes.
Let’s glimpse some of the most pristine homestays of MP offering unique and exotic experiences.
KEKADIYA AND KHARI:
Awaken to the melodious chorus of birdsong as you open your eyes to breathtaking lush green forests in the homestays of Kekadiya and Khari. Engage yourself in organic farming activities, where you can learn about traditional agricultural practices and indulge in the cultural activities of the village. Adventure lovers can also find fascinating cycling treks alongside other environmentally friendly recreational activities.
SABARWANI:
Located just 20 km from Pachmarhi Sabarwani is one of the unique hill station homestays where visitors can find exciting homestays and enjoy activities like trekking, bird watching, and hot springs alongside dazzling millet dishes of the region.
Places of interest: Choti Anhoni and Badi Anhoni
KOKHRA AND THADIPATHAR:
In the buffer forests of the Sanjau Dubri Tiger Reserve in Sidhi, Kokhra and Thadipather are two exemplary villages where the visitors can enjoy the shelter of the tall trees and relax in the white sand beach.
Places of interest: Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve
LADHPURA KHAAS:
One of the most Spiritual destinations of MP, Orchha has a majestic village called Ladhpura Khaas where travellers can find royal homestays and enjoy other destinations like the Orchha bird sanctuary, sunset points of Orchha and blend in the culture with their drama and musical performances. You can also enjoy activities like pottery and other rural arts. It was also nominated for the Best Tourism Village Awards by UNWTO in 2021.
Responsible Tourism is a program designed to improve the quality of living spaces and travel destinations. Its core objective is economic growth and community upliftment. Madhya Pradesh serves as a role model having successfully implemented the concept of Responsible Tourism.
A variety of strategies, such as Homestays, Gram Stays and Farm Stays have been put in place to enable visitors to gain a deeper connection with nature and culture.
Safety of Tourism Destinations for Women is a significant concern for the Board, as its goal is to ensure a secure and comforting environment for solo female travellers. The Responsible Souvenir scheme was launched to promote and protect traditional souvenirs and art forms. Solid waste management is a critical emphasis area – having Clean Destinations is paramount. The fact that Madhya Pradesh houses two of the cleanest cities in the country is a testament to the efforts towards providing pristine destinations for tourists. The Mission’s Humsafar initiative is aimed at raising consciousness about the obstacles faced by differently-abled individuals and taking measures to eliminate such barriers to enhance their touristic experiences. Skill Development and job creation for the youth are prominent features of the development plan, which has gained recognition in various parts of the globe.
