Gandhisagar, Kuno forest retreats to boost eco tourism in MP

Madhya Pradesh is set to usher in a new era of eco-tourism and adventure tourism with two major events this year. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has announced that the 4th edition of Gandhisagar Forest Retreat will open on September 12, 2025 at Gandhisagar Dam in Mandsaur district, followed by the 2nd edition of Kuno Forest Retreat, beginning October 5, 2025 near Kuno National Park in Sheopur district.
Tourism, Culture and Religious Trusts & Endowments Minister (Independent Charge) Dharmendra Singh Lodhi stated the retreats are not merely festivals but a unique effort to integrate natural heritage, cultural richness, and environmental conservation. “Gandhisagar and Kuno have emerged as hubs of eco-tourism and adventure tourism. While Gandhisagar aims to place Madhya Pradesh firmly on the adventure tourism map, Kuno is envisioned as a hub for wellness and wildlife tourism,” he noted.
Additional Chief Secretary and Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board Sheo Shekhar Shukla said the retreats exemplify “experience-based tourism.” Visitors will enjoy luxury glamping, water, land, and aerial adventure sports such as parasailing, paramotoring, jet skiing, hot-air ballooning, jungle safaris, night walks, and stargazing. The retreats will also feature boat safaris, yoga sessions, wellness activities, local cuisine, handicrafts, and cultural performances. Shukla emphasized that community participation, sustainability, and conservation remain central to the events.

Gandhisagar Forest Retreat & Festival (from September 12, 2025)
Set against the scenic backwaters of the Chambal River at Gandhisagar Dam, the retreat has grown into a leading adventure hub.
Key Attractions:
•Glamping with 50 luxury all-season tents
•Water, land, and aerial adventure activities (parasailing, paramotoring, zorbing, jet skiing)
•Boat safari and boat spa
•Jungle safari
•Local cuisine, indoor sports, and cultural entertainment
•Butterfly Garden and Rock Garden
•Workshops on nature conservation and handicrafts
Objectives & Benefits:
The event aims to boost Madhya Pradesh’s profile as a national and international adventure destination, stimulate the regional economy, create local employment opportunities, and promote heritage awareness among the younger generation.
Kuno Forest Retreat & Festival (from October 5, 2025)
Kuno, known worldwide for the historic reintroduction of cheetahs, will host an event that blends eco-tourism, wildlife, and culture.
Key Attractions:
•Adventure sports on land, water, and air
•Folk art, craft, music, and dance performances
•Glamping with 25 luxury tents
•Jungle safaris, night walks, and stargazing
•Yoga, meditation, and wellness sessions
•Hot-air ballooning and village tours
•Cheetah Interpretation Centre
Objectives & Benefits:
The retreat will highlight India’s cheetah project on a global stage, generate livelihoods for local communities, and promote sustainable tourism. It marks a significant step in environmental conservation and strengthens Madhya Pradesh’s identity on the international tourism map. 

(Asstt.Editor)