The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board on Friday unveiled two festivals that promise an immersive and enriching experience for visitors, celebrating the state’s diverse cultural heritage and its bountiful natural treasures.
Sheo Shekhar Shukla, principal secretary of tourism and culture and managing director of the tourism board, shared the comprehensive details of these captivating events.
The inaugural Kuno Forest Festival, also known as the Kuno Forest Retreat, is slated to commence from December 1 to December 10, 2023. This festival promises a once-in-a-lifetime journey, highlighted by the remarkable reintroduction of cheetahs to India after a hiatus of more than seven decades.
Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of Kuno National Park, this event offers a unique opportunity to explore the untamed wilderness. Beyond the natural beauty, visitors can uncover historical gems such as Sheopur Fort, Dob Kund, a 150-year-old railway bridge, and caves, each a window into India’s rich history. Guided safaris led by expert naturalists provide fascinating insights into the park’s diverse wildlife, including leopards, deer, bluebucks, and a plethora of migratory birds, officials informed.
Similarly, the second edition of the Gandhi Sagar Floating Festival is all set to enthral visitors from October 27 to November 5, 2023. This unique festival unfolds against the picturesque backdrop of Gandhi Sagar, nestled near Mandsaur and adjacent to the Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary. It promises an exhilarating amalgamation of adventure, entertainment, and culture, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Adventure enthusiasts can partake in a thrilling array of activities, including kayaking, jet skiing, hot air ballooning, horse riding, air gun shooting, speed boating, and parasailing, all set amidst the breathtaking natural scenery. For wildlife aficionados, the festival offers jungle safaris, providing a rare opportunity to encounter the region’s diverse wildlife.
The festival will showcase traditional arts, captivating cultural performances, and an exquisite assortment of local cuisine, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the state’s vibrant heritage. To elevate the experience, the Gandhi Sagar Forest Retreat (Tent City) beckons with well-appointed, all-weather tents, offering luxury in the heart of nature. Both the Kuno Forest Festival and the Gandhi Sagar Floating Festival offer a glamping experience par excellence, with luxurious Tent Cities integrated into the stunning natural surroundings, allowing guests to immerse themselves fully in the beauty of Madhya Pradesh.
Additionally, MakeMyTrip will collaborate closely with the tourism department to spotlight pilgrimage sites and wildlife-centric travel experiences, amplifying their visibility through its platform. redBus, on the other hand, will be designated as the official “Online Bus Ticketing Partner” by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, facilitating seamless travel exploration across the state.
The overarching objective of these festivals is to immerse tourists and visitors in the rich cultural tapestry and comfort of Madhya Pradesh, all while surrounded by its natural beauty. Officers believe that these festivals are poised to have a profound impact on the growth of tourism in the state, offering visitors a chance to create indelible memories and develop a profound appreciation for the state’s rich cultural and natural heritage. For in-depth information and bookings, people may visit the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board website.
