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Raipur March 12, 2025: Chhattisgarh’s Kanger Valley National Park (KVNP) has been included in the UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage under the Natural category.
This is a big achievement for Chhattisgarh, said Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai.
It is a matter of joy that Kanger Valley National Park has been included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO. Kanger Valley National Park not only plays an important role in the conservation of biodiversity, but it also promotes local tribal culture and eco-tourism, the Chief Minister said.
Inclusion in this list will give international recognition to the Bastar region and will further promote tourism. This achievement is a matter of pride for the entire Chhattisgarh, he added.
It is worth mentioning that Kanger Valley National Park meets three important parameters—natural beauty, geological features, and biodiversity.
The Kanger Valley National Park management had submitted a proposal to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Ministry of Culture, Government of India for inclusion of the park in the UNESCO World Heritage List, which has been selected by UNESCO in its tentative list.
Natural beauty and unique formations in Kanger Valley
Kanger Valley National Park is famous for its enchanting natural scenery, lush green valleys, deep ravines and waterfalls. The Tirathgarh Falls, which originates from the Kanger River, presents a wonderful view falling from a height of 150 feet. The Kanger River is an important tourist destination due to its clean water and unique rocky formations.
Apart from this, Kotamsar, Kailash, Dandak and more than 15 such caves are a center of special attraction for tourists and scientists from the country and abroad due to their unique natural form and historical importance.
Geological features and biodiversity
This park is famous for its geological diversity. The karst formations, limestone caves, water structures and rocky layers here are an important center of study for scientists and researchers. Geological changes are seen in this area. Limestone caves are a special attraction for tourists.
This park is rich in biodiversity and has various flora, wildlife and special species. 963 types of plants, including 120 families and 574 species. 30 species of rare orchids have been recorded here. There are 49 mammals, 210 birds, 37 reptiles, 16 amphibians, 57 fishes and 141 butterfly species.
Rare species include Bastar Hill Myna (state bird of Chhattisgarh), Travancore Wolf Snake, Green Pit Viper, and Montane Trinket Snake.
Tourism will be promoted in Bastar region
Kanger Valley National Park preserves the rich tribal culture of Bastar. Gond and Dhurva tribes live here, who are famous for their traditional customs, dances, folk songs and festivals.
Handicrafts such as bamboo crafts by local tribals are especially popular in this region. The tribal communities here are deeply connected to nature and many stories and beliefs related to forests have been passed down for generations.
Eco-tourism and adventure tourism activities include jungle safari, bird watching, trekking, kayaking, bamboo rafting, camping, homestay, cave tours and photography, making it an exciting tourist destination.
The natural beauty, historical caves, wildlife, and cultural heritage here make it one of the major tourist destinations of Chhattisgarh.
Considering the specialty of Kanger Valley National Park, it has been included in the tentative list by UNESCO. The inclusion of the park in the tentative list of UNESCO is an important step towards getting international recognition for the Bastar region.
