Ministry of Tourism Announces Winners of Best Tourism Villages Competition 2024
In a bid to promote rural tourism and highlight villages that embody sustainability and cultural heritage, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has announced the winners of the prestigious Best Tourism Villages Competition 2024. A total of 36 villages from across the country have been recognized as winners, each excelling in one of eight distinct categories.
Among the winners, Bandora Village from Goa stands out for being awarded the Spiritual and Wellness Award. This accolade highlights Bandora’s dedication to promoting wellness tourism while preserving its spiritual heritage. The village has gained recognition for its tranquil environment, traditional wellness practices, and sacred spaces that attract visitors seeking spiritual rejuvenation.
The primary focus of the competition was to identify and reward villages that successfully preserve and promote their cultural and natural assets through community-based efforts. The Ministry emphasized that all winning villages displayed a deep commitment to sustainability in all aspects of tourism. This initiative also aligns with the government’s goal to encourage rural communities to leverage tourism for economic development while safeguarding their cultural heritage and natural landscapes.
The Best Tourism Villages Competition is part of the Ministry’s broader strategy to promote rural tourism and sustainable development, giving a platform to local communities to showcase their unique cultural identities while benefiting from tourism. Through initiatives like these, the government aims to position India as a top global destination for eco-conscious and culturally immersive travel experiences.