Kuthluru village, nestled in Belthangady taluk of Dakshina Kannada district, has achieved remarkable recognition by winning the prestigious “Best Adventure Tourist Destination” National Award. This accolade is part of the 2024 Best Tourist Villages Competition, organised annually by the Ministry of Tourism in celebration of World Tourism Day. The competition aims to honour villages that excel in promoting sustainable development through their cultural heritage and tourism initiatives.
The award-winning entry was the result of a collaborative effort by Naravi residents Harish D. Salyan, Shivraj, and Sandeep Pujari. Together, they produced a compelling documentary that showcased Kuthluru’s diverse tourist attractions, stunning natural landscapes, and significant environmental features. The documentary was instrumental in conveying the village’s unique offerings, leading to its selection as the top adventure tourism destination following rigorous evaluations.
The selection process involved multiple rounds of scrutiny, where the committee assessed various factors such as the village’s commitment to sustainable tourism, preservation of cultural heritage, and the overall experience offered to visitors. Kuthluru stood out for its potential to blend adventure tourism with environmental conservation, making it a model for other villages looking to enhance their tourism prospects while remaining ecologically responsible.
The award ceremony is scheduled for September 27 at Vigyan Bhawan in Delhi. During this prestigious event, Harish D. Salyan and Shivraj will be present to receive the award, marking a significant milestone for their village. The ceremony will also be attended by high-profile dignitaries, including Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, further underscoring the importance of this recognition.
Kuthluru’s diverse landscape offers a plethora of adventure activities, including trekking, nature walks, and cultural experiences that draw both domestic and international tourists. The village’s rich cultural tapestry, combined with its natural beauty, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of adventure and tranquillity.
Moreover, the villagers have embraced sustainable practices to ensure that tourism benefits the local community without compromising the environment. Initiatives such as promoting local handicrafts, preserving traditional practices, and engaging in eco-friendly tourism are key aspects of Kuthluru’s strategy to enhance visitor experiences while safeguarding their heritage.
Kuthluru’s recognition as the Best Adventure Tourist Destination serves as an inspiration for other villages aiming to promote tourism responsibly. It highlights the importance of integrating cultural heritage and environmental conservation in tourism strategies. The successful collaboration between local residents to create a compelling narrative through documentary filmmaking illustrates the power of storytelling in attracting tourism and preserving community identity.
As the village prepares to celebrate this accolade, the hope is that it will not only enhance Kuthluru’s visibility on the tourism map but also encourage more visitors to explore the beauty and adventure that rural India has to offer.
This award is not just a trophy; it represents a commitment to sustainable tourism and a model for other villages striving to find their place in the ever-evolving tourism landscape. Kuthluru has set a benchmark, and its success story is expected to inspire other villages to leverage their unique attributes for tourism development.