Dhudmaras village of Bastar becomes a world-class tourist destination
Solar energy projects implemented in the village on the initiative of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai
Raipur, 09 July 2025: Dhudmaras, a small tribal village falling under Kanger Valley National Park in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh state, has made its own identity on the world stage today. Included in the 20 best tourist villages in the world by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, this village has now emerged as a model of environmental conservation and sustainable development. This village, full of natural beauty, cultural diversity and traditional lifestyle, is now also moving towards self-reliance through solar energy. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, continuous work is being done to promote eco-friendly tourism in the Bastar region as well as to develop local facilities. By effectively implementing various solar energy based projects by CREDA in Dhudmaras village, clean drinking water, night lighting and electricity supply to educational institutions have been ensured. Through Chhattisgarh Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA), the availability of pure drinking water has been ensured by installing 03 solar dual pumps in the village. Arrangement of night lighting has been made by installing 02 solar high mast plants. Solar power street lights have been installed in the streets of the village. Solar energy based power supply has been ensured in primary and secondary schools. CREDA Chairman Bhupendra Savnani and Chief Executive Officer Rajesh Rana continuously monitored the projects and got the works completed in a quality manner.
Dhudmaras village and Chitrakote village of Bastar district have been awarded as the best villages on the occasion of World Tourism Day by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Naturally rich Dhudmaras village, picturesque stream of Kanger river, greenery, biodiversity and traditional Bastariya culture attract tourists. Trekking trails, camping sites and home-stay facilities are being developed by the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai. Traditional handicrafts are being linked to the market by encouraging local craftsmen and artists. Road and transport facilities are being strengthened. In Dhudmaras village, adventure activities like kayaking and bamboo rafting in the Kanger river are being conducted by the Eco-Tourism Development Committee, which is providing livelihood opportunities to the youth at the local level. Basic facilities like waiting rooms, toilets for tourists are also being developed at the village level. The Forest and Tourism Department of the state government is doing planned work towards developing Dhudmaras as an eco-tourism destination. On the same lines, eco-tourism is also being promoted in villages like Nagalsar and Netanar. The success of Dhudmaras is a proof that if the government’s schemes are implemented with community participation, then economic, social and cultural development is possible even in rural areas. This village has now become an inspiration for the entire Bastar region.
