AHMEDABAD: Dhordo Village in Gujarat’s Kutch district has achieved a remarkable milestone by being honored with the prestigious ‘Best Tourism Village’ title by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This accolade underscores Dhordo’s outstanding contributions to sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and rural development.
Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of the Great Rann of Kutch, Dhordo has gained global recognition for hosting the annual Rann Utsav, a vibrant cultural festival that celebrates the region’s rich tapestry of traditional arts, music, and crafts. It offers tourists from around the world a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Rann of Kutch.
Dhordo’s newfound status as the ‘Best Tourism Village’ carries significant implications for the region’s economy. The Rann Utsav, a cornerstone of Dhordo’s appeal, has played a pivotal role in boosting the local economy. In the fiscal year 2022-23 alone, the event generated an impressive revenue of Rs 468 crore through GST. With over 98,000 Indian tourists and 7,400 international visitors attending the festival, it has cemented itself as a prominent tourism destination on the global map.
The local community of Dhordo has been instrumental in the village’s transformation. Their active involvement in cultural preservation, traditional handicrafts, and hospitality services ensures that tourists have an authentic experience while significantly contributing to the local economy.
Recognizing the immense potential of Dhordo, the government of Gujarat launched the annual Rann Utsav. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his joy at Dhordo’s achievement by the UNWTO. He took to social media to celebrate the village’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, inviting people to share their memories and experiences in Dhordo, with the hope of inspiring more individuals to visit this remarkable village.
The UNWTO’s ‘Best Tourism Village’ award is a prestigious recognition that honors villages for their exceptional contributions to rural development, preservation of original landscapes, promotion of cultural heritage and diversity, and the safeguarding of local values and culinary traditions. The evaluation process encompasses nine key criteria related to economic, social, and environmental sustainability, cultural and natural resources, and value chain integration. It aims to identify and celebrate exceptional rural tourism destinations worldwide.
Dhordo Village’s recognition as the ‘Best Tourism Village’ by the UNWTO is a testament to its remarkable contributions to sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and rural development. It serves as an inspiration for other villages, both in India and globally, and highlights the immense potential of rural tourism as a driver of economic growth and cultural exchange. Dhordo is not just a village; it’s a living testament to the beauty and vibrancy of India’s rural landscape.