Dhordo, a quaint village in the Kutch region of Gujarat has won the title of “Best Tourism Village” from the United Nations recently.This remarkable achievement underscores not only the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Dhordo but also the dedication and efforts of the people of Kutch, who have worked tirelessly to make this recognition possible. Dhordo’s recognition on the global stage serves as a testament to the immense potential of Indian tourism and the contributions of local communities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers congratulations
In a moment of great pride and celebration, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Dhordo, a picturesque village in Gujarat, for receiving the prestigious title of “Best Tourism Village” by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s connection to Dhordo runs deep, as he shared memories from his visits to the village in 2009 and 2015. These visits left a lasting impression on him, and he expressed his immense joy at seeing Dhordo’s cultural heritage and natural beauty celebrated internationally. The recognition by the UNWTO not only celebrates Dhordo’s past but also envisions a bright future for the village. PM Modi expressed his hope that Dhordo will continue to shine and attract visitors from around the world.
He wrote in a message that he was absolutely thrilled to see Dhordo in Kutch being celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. He further added that this feat not only shows the potential of Indian tourism but also the dedication of the people of Kutch in particular. The Prime Minister’s post had the cascading effect of many other tourists of the place to share their own memories from previous visits to the place.
The Great Rann of Kutch
Dhordo a village, located amid the vast Great Rann of Kutch, has acquired fame for holding the annual Rann Utsav. This vibrant cultural event serves as a showcase for the region’s traditional arts, music, and crafts. The town is not only a gateway to the Great Rann of Kutch, but also a cultural hotspot, making it a must-see destination for anybody interested in experiencing Gujarat’s lively and diversified culture.
The Great Rann of Kutch, which covers a vast expanse of 27454 square kilometers, is one of the most unique geographical It is basically a vast, white, and barren landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. However, this desolate expanse takes on a magical and almost otherworldly beauty under the moonlight. The moonlight transforms the Rann of Kutch into a breathtakingly beautiful landscape.
The magnanimous Rann Utsav in Dhordo
What sets the Rann of Kutch apart is not just its surreal appearance but also the fact that it is home to several semi-nomadic tribal communities. It is this unique blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity that forms the backdrop for the annual Rann Utsav. This cultural extravaganza draws a vast number of tourists from all over the world.
Rann Utsav, which begins on November 10, 2023 and runs until February 25, 2024, promises four months of cultural immersion in a spectacular natural location. The event allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Gujarati culture, from traditional music and dance to fine crafts and local food. The festival displays the finest of what Gujarat has to offer and allows visitors to experience the distinct lifestyle and customs of the region’s tribal groups.
A Deserving Title
The recognition of Dhordo as the “Best Tourism Village” is not only a moment of pride for Gujarat but for all of India. It highlights the country’s incredible cultural diversity and natural beauty while also recognizing the importance of preserving and celebrating local traditions. The selection of the place for the title is a meticulous process.
This prestigious award is given to villages that excel in various aspects of rural development, maintenance of the original landscape, cultural heritage and diversity, local values, and food traditions. The selection process involves evaluating cultural and natural resources, promotion and conservation of cultural resources, economic sustainability, social stability, environmental sustainability, tourism potential and development, and value chain integration. Dhordo, with its rich cultural tapestry and stunning natural beauty, has checked all the boxes, making it a deserving recipient of this accolade.
In celebrating Dhordo’s success, we celebrate the spirit of local communities, the tapestry of Indian culture, and the extraordinary beauty of the Great Rann of Kutch. It is a testament to the dedication and a commitment to preserving cultural heritage and natural landscapes. Dhordo’s journey is a beacon of hope, showing that sustainable and responsible tourism can benefit local communities and draw the world’s attention to the hidden gems of India.
