Bastar’s Kanger Valley National Park included in UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage
Chhattisgarh’s first site included in the World Heritage List
Inclusion in the World Heritage List will give international recognition to Bastar – Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai
Raipur 12 March 2025: Chhattisgarh’s Kanger Valley National Park (KVNP) has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List under the Natural category. Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai has said that this is a big achievement for Chhattisgarh. He said that it is a matter of joy that Kanger Valley National Park has been included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO. Kanger Valley National Park not only plays an important role in the conservation of biodiversity, but it also promotes local tribal culture and eco-tourism. Inclusion in this list will give international recognition to the Bastar region and will further promote tourism. This achievement is a matter of pride for the entire Chhattisgarh. It is worth mentioning that this park meets three important parameters—natural beauty, geological features, and biodiversity. A proposal was submitted by the Kanger Valley National Park management to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Ministry of Culture, Government of India for inclusion of the park in the UNESCO World Heritage List, which has been selected by UNESCO in its tentative list.
Natural beauty and unique formations in Kanger Valley Kanger Valley National Park is famous for its enchanting natural scenery, lush green valleys, deep ravines and waterfalls. Tirathgarh Falls, which originates from the Kanger River, presents a wonderful view falling from a height of 150 feet. Kanger River is an important tourist destination due to its clean water and unique rock formations. Apart from this, Kotamsar, Kailash, Dandak and more than 15 such caves are a special center of attraction for tourists and scientists from the country and abroad due to their unique natural form and historical importance. Geological features and biodiversity This park is famous for its geological diversity. The karst formations, limestone caves, water structures and rock layers here are an important center of study for scientists and researchers. Geological changes are seen in this area. Limestone caves are a special attraction for tourists. Various vegetation, wildlife and special species of animals are found in this park rich in biodiversity. 963 types of flora, including 120 families and 574 species. 30 species of rare orchids have been recorded here. There are 49 mammals, 210 birds, 37 reptiles, 16 amphibians, 57 fishes and 141 butterfly species. There are rare species like Bastar Hill Myna (State Bird of Chhattisgarh), Travancore Wolf Snake, Green Pit Viper, Montane Trinket Snake. Tourism will get a boost in Bastar region
Kanger Valley National Park preserves the rich tribal culture of Bastar. Gond and Dhurva tribes live here, who are famous for their traditional customs, dance, folk songs and festivals. Handicrafts like bamboo craft artifacts by local tribals are especially popular in this area. The tribal communities here are deeply connected with nature and many stories and beliefs related to forests have been going on for generations. Eco-tourism and adventure tourism activities include jungle safari, bird watching, trekking, kayaking, bamboo rafting, camping, homestay, cave tour and photography, making it an exciting tourist destination. The natural beauty, historical caves, wildlife, and cultural heritage make it one of the major tourist destinations of Chhattisgarh. Considering the specialty of Kanger Valley National Park, it has been included in the tentative list by UNESCO. The inclusion of the park in the tentative list of UNESCO is an important step towards getting international recognition for the Bastar region.
