Chhattisgarh’s Kanger Valley National Park has officially entered the UNESCO Tentative List, positioning it for potential global recognition. Covering 200 square kilometers, the park is renowned for its distinctive ecosystem, abundant wildlife, and cultural significance. This recognition is anticipated to promote tourism, create job opportunities, and support both local communities and conservation initiatives.
Chhattisgarh’s Kanger Valley National Park has been officially added to the UNESCO Tentative List, a major milestone for the state. This makes Kanger Valley India’s newest contender for the prestigious World Heritage List, as announced by officials on Wednesday. Located in the Bastar district, the 200 square kilometer Kanger Valley is a pristine forest celebrated for its stunning limestone caves, scenic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Conservationists and nature lovers have long appreciated the park’s unique ecosystem, nestled amidst hills and dense sal tree forests.
In December 2023, the Archaeological Survey of India, in collaboration with the Chhattisgarh government, initiated the nomination process for Kanger Valley National Park. Prior to submitting the UNESCO accreditation request, specialists thoroughly assessed its distinctive ecosystem, biodiversity, and archaeological significance. This marks the first time a site from Chhattisgarh has been included in this prestigious list, enhancing the prospects of it being designated as a World Heritage Site in the future.
Chhattisgarh: Bastar’s Kanger Valley National Park added to UNESCO’s Tentative List
Kanger Valley National Park boasts over 15 stunning limestone caves, such as the famous Kotumsar, Kailash, and Dandak caves. Its rich wildlife includes rare species like the otter, mouse deer, giant squirrel, Lethis softshell turtle, and wild wolf. The park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, home to over 200 bird species and 140 varieties of butterflies.
The UNESCO recognition is expected to not only boost conservation efforts but also benefit local communities, particularly the indigenous Dhruva and Gond tribes, who consider the forest an integral part of their cultural heritage. The inclusion of Dhudmaras village, located within the park, in the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s list of 20 settlements globally recognized for tourism-driven development further underscores the park’s growing importance in the global tourism sector.
With this honor, Kanger Valley National Park is set to gain increased global exposure, promote ecological preservation, and encourage sustainable tourism growth, marking a significant achievement for both Chhattisgarh and India.
The post Chhattisgarh’s Kanger Valley Gains UNESCO Recognition – Your Ultimate Travel Destination In India Awaits appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Source link
