Peaceful villages make Chhindwara MP’s new tourism hotspot

The tourism villages of Chhindwara district, nestled deep within the Satpura valleys, are fast becoming a major attraction for both domestic and international travelers. With their blend of rural life, tribal culture, hill trekking, and vibrant folk performances, these villages offer a unique experience that city lanes cannot match.Over the past two years, homestays developed under Madhya Pradesh’s Rural Tourism Project have gained national and international recognition. The project, which aims to provide tourists with authentic exposure to rural lifestyles, is transforming 100 villages across the state into tourism villages,according to information.Besides,twelve villages of Chhindwara have been identified for tourism development, with homestays already operational in Sawarwani, Devgarh, Kajra, Gumtara, Chopna, Chimtipur, and Dhoosawani. Together, they offer 36 homestays that attract thousands of tourists every week.The initiative has created new employment opportunities, especially for the youth, who now work as guides, organize folk dance performances, devotional music events, and bullock cart rides for visitors. This income generation has also helped curb migration, with tribal families choosing to stay in their villages.
Unique Identity of Every Village

Each tourism village in Chhindwara presents its own distinct charm. Chopna, surrounded by dense Sal forests, offers breathtaking views of the Devna River. Chimtipur, near Patalkot, captivates visitors with its mystical valleys. Gumtara, located close to Pench National Park, is gaining popularity as an offbeat destination. Devgarh boasts the historic Gond fort, while Kajra is known for the serene backwaters of Bandhan Dam. Dhoosawani, with its vistas of the Chauragarh Mahadev Temple and lush mango orchards, draws cultural and spiritual travelers alike.Tourists staying in homestays enjoy activities such as milking cows, participating in farming, and trekking through the Satpura hills. Evenings are enlivened with devotional music played on traditional instruments like the dholak and manjira, while the tribal Karma dance showcases the region’s cultural richness.Meanwhile,With its rising popularity, Chhindwara is not only carving out a place on India’s tourism map but is also emerging as a national model of sustainable rural development. The blend of cultural preservation, economic upliftment, and eco-friendly practices is ensuring that the “peace found on village pathways” continues to enrich both visitors and locals alike.

(Asstt.Editor)