Kere Village, located in Jashpur district of Chhattisgarh, is rapidly gaining recognition for its innovative approach to rural tourism, combining homestays, cultural experiences, and eco-tourism to drive socio-economic transformation. The village has leveraged its natural beauty, tribal heritage, and community participation to create a sustainable model of tourism that benefits local residents while preserving the environment.
Visitors to Kere Village can stay in traditional homes, where hosts provide an authentic experience of rural life. Homestays not only offer a comfortable stay but also immerse tourists in daily village routines, traditional cooking, and local festivals. This model has enabled villagers to supplement their income while maintaining their cultural identity. Many homestay operators are women, reflecting a positive shift in gender empowerment and community engagement.
The village’s rich cultural heritage is another key attraction. Visitors can witness tribal dances, folk music performances, and handicraft demonstrations. Local artisans display handwoven textiles, terracotta items, and other handicrafts that highlight the region’s artistic traditions. Tourists often participate in workshops, giving them hands-on experience of these crafts. The integration of cultural activities with tourism ensures the preservation and appreciation of tribal art forms.
Kere Village is also promoting eco-tourism through guided nature trails, forest treks, and visits to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. Environmental awareness is central to the tourism model, with initiatives to maintain cleanliness, conserve water, and protect local flora and fauna. Visitors are encouraged to engage in responsible tourism practices, including waste segregation, tree planting drives, and wildlife observation under expert supervision.
Local communities benefit economically through direct engagement with tourism. Villagers earn income by hosting tourists, offering meals, conducting guided tours, and selling handicrafts. The model encourages self-reliance, supports small-scale entrepreneurship, and reduces dependence on traditional agriculture alone. Young people in the village are gaining skills in hospitality, tour guiding, and craft promotion, helping stem rural migration to cities.
Officials from the district tourism department say Kere Village serves as a model for sustainable rural development. By combining cultural heritage, environmental conservation, and income generation, the village demonstrates how tourism can enhance livelihoods without compromising ecological balance. The success of Kere Village has inspired similar initiatives in other parts of Jashpur and surrounding districts.
Tourists visiting Kere Village report a unique and memorable experience, highlighting the friendliness of hosts, the authenticity of rural life, and the scenic beauty of the region. The village has successfully positioned itself as a niche destination for eco-conscious and culturally curious travelers.
Overall, Kere Village illustrates the potential of community-led, eco-friendly tourism to transform rural landscapes. By preserving cultural traditions, protecting the environment, and generating sustainable income, the village has created a model that can be replicated across India. Authorities and tourism experts view this as a significant step in promoting inclusive, sustainable development in rural areas.
