Bastar’s Kanger Valley National Park Makes It To UNESCO’s Tentative List Of World Heritage Sites
Chhattisgarh's Kanger Valley has more than 15 limestone caves, including Kotamsar, Kailash and Dandak
In a historic achievement for Chhattisgarh’s tourism, the Kanger Valley National Park has been included in the tentative list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites for its unique biodiversity.
The Chhattisgarh government said this journey was tough, but the beauty and historical importance of Kanger Valley led to the laurel.
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In December 2023, the Chhattisgarh government and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) had planned to give global recognition to the site. Experts studied its biodiversity, archaeological heritage and unique ecosystem in depth and then a proposal was sent to include its name to the UNESCO tentative list. This is the first time that a site in Chhattisgarh has been included in this prestigious list. Authorities hope to get the status of permanent world heritage site in the coming years.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the success was a result of hard work and commitment. “It is a matter of pride for the state that Kanger Valley has been included in the UNESCO Tentative List, which will open up new possibilities in tourism and employment. We will continue to work together to preserve our heritage in the future as well," he said.
Kanger Valley has more than 15 limestone caves, including Kotamsar, Kailash and Dandak. Apart from being geological wonders, they also contain archaeological stories. The park is home to animals such as otter, mouse deer, giant squirrel, Lethis softshell turtle, wild wolf. It houses more than 200 bird species, more than 900 plants, and more than 140 butterflies.
UNESCO’S TENTATIVE LIST: FIRST STEP
UNESCO’s Tentative List includes places which could be declared world heritage in the future.
Entering the permanent list will help Kanger Valley make a special identity in the world.
The achievement will not only benefit the forest, but also the surrounding villages.
For the Dhruva and Gond tribes here, the forest is part of their culture and life, and the recognition will help them. The increase in tourism will also create new employment opportunities.
The Dhudmaras village of Bastar has attracted attention of the world with its simplicity and has been included in the top 20 villages of the world by joining the UNWTO’s ‘Best Tourist Village’ promotion programme. The Kanger Valley could take this glory to greater heights.
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