Deep in the lush green heart of Kanger Valley National Park, a small village in Bastar is making waves globally. Welcome to Dhudmaras, a quiet hamlet that has now become a superstar on the world tourism stage. From hosting bamboo rafting adventures to offering a peek into the lives of the Dhurwa tribe, this village is rewriting the story of rural India. One can easily take a train to Bastar, and then reach the Kanger Valley National Park by local buses going through the same route to reach this beautiful village.
And guess what? Dhudmaras is the only Indian village to make it to the United Nations Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme 2024, a list of 20 global destinations bursting with potential.
“We never imagined our little village would be recognized by the UN,” Mr. Haris S, the District Collector of Bastar, exclusively told Indian Masterminds. “This is not just a win for us but a signal to the world: Bastar is open for business, tourism, and unforgettable experiences.”
FROM LOCAL SECRETS TO GLOBAL ACCOLADES
Until recently, Dhudmaras was just another picturesque village nestled in Bastar’s forests. But with its inclusion in the UN’s list, this village has joined the big league. The UNWTO received over 260 applications this year, and Dhudmaras made the cut for its unique approach to adventure-based tourism and community engagement.
This isn’t the first time Dhudmaras has been in the spotlight. Earlier this year, it was crowned India’s Best Tourism Village (Adventure-Based Tourism) by the Ministry of Tourism. Now, with the UN’s nod, Dhudmaras is set to level up.
WHAT MAKES DHUDMARAS SO SPECIAL?
Imagine kayaking down a serene forest stream, bamboo rafting across crystal-clear waters, or trekking through trails that lead to hidden waterfalls. Dhudmaras offers this and more.
At the heart of the village’s charm is its eco-tourism model. From birdwatching to homestays run by the Dhurwa tribe, every activity here is designed to give visitors an authentic and sustainable experience.
“We wanted to show people that Bastar is more than what they hear on the news,” explains the 2015 batch IAS officer. “When you visit Dhudmaras, you’re not just a tourist. You are part of the village, tasting our food, learning our traditions, and sharing in our life.”
ADVENTURES GALORE
Dhudmaras doesn’t believe in half-measures when it comes to adventure. Here’s what you can do:
- Bamboo Rafting: Glide over the Kanger River in handcrafted bamboo rafts. It’s eco-friendly and thrilling.
- Kayaking: Perfect for adrenaline junkies looking for action-packed water sports.
- Trekking and Nature Walks: Explore hidden trails, spot rare birds, and marvel at seasonal waterfalls.
- Night Camping: Fall asleep under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the forest.
Local youth, trained by the Tourism and Forest Departments, are the backbone of these activities. They’re the guides, instructors, and storytellers who bring the village’s charm to life.
LIVING THE TRIBAL WAY
If adventure isn’t your thing, Dhudmaras still has plenty to offer. Stay at one of the cozy tribal homestays, where every detail—from the food to the decor—reflects the Dhurwa tribe’s culture. Feast on traditional Bastariya dishes, watch tribal dance performances or simply soak in the quiet rhythms of village life.
And the profits? They stay within the community. “During the peak season, the village earns over ₹1.5 lakh a month just from activities like kayaking and rafting,” Mr. Haris shared with Indian Masterminds.
A RIPPLE EFFECT ACROSS BASTAR
Dhudmaras’ success is inspiring neighboring villages to step up. “Four or five villages have already started offering bamboo rafting, trekking, and homestays,” says Mr. Haris. “The idea is catching on, and it’s creating jobs right here at home. Young people don’t have to leave for cities anymore.”
This isn’t just about tourism; it’s about transformation. By promoting sustainable tourism, Bastar is tackling migration, improving incomes, and showing the world a new side of itself. With Naxalism almost on the verge of ending, this village is proving to be a new ray of hope that could transform the image of Bastar, otherwise considered the hub of Maoists.
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CHALLENGES AHEAD
Of course, there’s still work to be done. The UN Upgrade Programme is designed to help villages like Dhudmaras improve their infrastructure and address weaknesses. Over the next year, a team will work with the village to refine its offerings and prepare it for an even bigger global stage.
“We’re learning as we go,” Mr. Haris admits. “The UN team will guide us, but it’s our responsibility to make the most of this opportunity. Dhudmaras has the potential to be a global tourism hotspot.”
WHY DHUDMARAS MATTERS
In a region often overshadowed by its past as a Naxal-affected area, Dhudmaras is flipping the narrative. Today, it’s not fear but hope and opportunity that define Bastar.
As Mr. Haris puts it: “Bastar isn’t just a place. It’s an experience, a feeling, a story waiting to be told. Dhudmaras is the first chapter. And trust me, the rest of the story is going to be just as amazing.”
So, if you’re looking for your next adventure, skip the crowded beaches and overrun hill stations. Pack your bags, and head to Dhudmaras. The forest is calling, and it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
