Bastar’s Kanger Valley National Park Included in UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites
Raipur, March 12
Chhattisgarh’s Kanger Valley National Park (KVNP) has been included in the UNESCO Tentative List of World Heritage Sites under the Natural category.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai expressed that this is a significant achievement for Chhattisgarh. He said, “It is a matter of great joy that UNESCO has included Kanger Valley National Park in the World Heritage List. The park not only plays an important role in biodiversity conservation but also promotes local tribal culture and eco-tourism. Its inclusion in this list will bring international recognition to the Bastar region and further boost tourism. This achievement is a matter of pride for the entire state of Chhattisgarh.”
It is noteworthy that the park meets three important criteria—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 the inclusion of the park in the UNESCO World Heritage List, which was then selected by UNESCO for its temporary list.
Natural Beauty and Unique Structures in Kanger Valley
Kanger Valley National Park is famous for its mesmerizing natural views, lush valleys, deep gorges, and waterfalls. The Tirathgarh Waterfall, which originates from the Kanger River, presents a breathtaking sight as it cascades from a height of 150 feet. The Kanger River, with its clean water and unique rock formations, is an important tourist destination. Additionally, more than 15 caves, including Kotamsar, Kailash, Dandak, and others, attract tourists and scientists alike due to their unique natural forms and historical significance.
Geological Features and Biodiversity
The park is renowned for its geological diversity. The karst formations, limestone caves, water structures, and rock layers are an important center of study for scientists and researchers. Geologic changes are observed in the region, and the limestone caves are a special attraction for tourists.
Rich in biodiversity, the park is home to various plant species, wildlife, and special endemic species. There are 963 types of plants, including 120 families and 574 species. It has recorded 30 species of rare orchids. The park also houses 49 mammal species, 210 bird species, 37 reptiles, 16 amphibians, 57 fish species, and 141 butterfly species. Rare species such as the Bastar Hill Myna (Chhattisgarh’s state bird), Travancore Wolf Snake, Green Pit Viper, and Mountain Trinket Snake are found here.
Boost to Tourism in Bastar Region
Kanger Valley National Park preserves the rich tribal culture of Bastar. The region is home to the Gond and Dhurwa tribes, known for their traditional customs, dance, folk songs, and festivals. Local tribal crafts, especially bamboo artwork, are particularly popular. The tribal communities here are deeply connected to nature and have passed down numerous stories and beliefs related to the forests over generations.
Eco-tourism and adventure activities such as jungle safaris, bird watching, trekking, kayaking, bamboo rafting, camping, homestays, cave exploration, and photography offer excellent opportunities, making the park an exciting tourism destination. Its natural beauty, historical caves, wildlife, and cultural heritage place it among Chhattisgarh’s major tourist attractions. Given its unique features, UNESCO has included Kanger Valley National Park in its temporary list.
This inclusion in UNESCO’s tentative list marks an important step toward providing international recognition to the Bastar region.