2024 Best Tourism Village Awards to 4 Villages of Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand Shines Nationally as Jakhol, Harsil, Gunji, and Supi Win ‘Best Tourism Village’ Awards for Eco-Friendly and Cultural Efforts
Four picturesque villages in Uttarakhand—Jakhol (Uttarkashi), Harsil (Uttarkashi), Gunji (Pithoragarh), and Supi (Bageshwar)—have been awarded the prestigious “Best Tourism Village” title at a national event organized by the Union Tourism Ministry in New Delhi.
Presented on World Tourism Day, these awards celebrate the villages’ exceptional contributions to sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, and eco-friendly practices, a proud achievement for the hill state.
Jakhol (Uttarkashi): Recognized for its thriving adventure tourism scene, Jakhol attracts trekking and mountaineering enthusiasts to its rugged Himalayan landscapes. Known for its breathtaking scenery, challenging trekking routes, and high-altitude terrain, Jakhol is gaining popularity as a prime destination for adventure lovers.
Harsil (Uttarkashi): Awarded in the ‘Vibrant Village’ category, Harsil stands out for its serene environment and rich traditions. This village, famous for its snow-capped mountains, lush apple orchards, and unspoiled natural beauty, offers a peaceful retreat, drawing visitors seeking a break from city life.
Gunji (Pithoragarh): Also honored as a ‘Vibrant Village,’ Gunji serves as a strategic stop along the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage route. Situated at the confluence of the Kuthi Yankti and Kalapani rivers, this picturesque village near the borders of Tibet and Nepal has cultural and strategic significance, making it an essential destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Supi (Bageshwar): Recognized in the “Agri Tourism” category, Supi is celebrated for its dedication to traditional agriculture and cultural heritage. This recognition emphasizes Supi’s potential as a hub for agri-tourism, connecting visitors to rural life and sustainable farming practices, which support the local economy.
These awards highlight Uttarakhand’s rich tourism potential, from adventure and cultural immersion to agricultural tourism, positioning the state as a leading destination for diverse travel experiences. This achievement opens exciting possibilities for further tourism development in Uttarakhand’s scenic and culturally vibrant regions.
About the Competition
The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India organizes the Best Tourist Village Competition at the national level every year. The Ministry of Tourism has recognized 36 villages across eight categories, and these four villages stood out for their distinct appeal.
Conservation of culture and natural wealth, promotion of community-based values and lifestyle, and commitment towards economic, social and environmental sustainability are included in it. Entries were invited from the states on these subjects.
