Nestled in the scenic Murshidabad district of West Bengal, Baranagar village has been crowned India’s best agri-tourism village. Its captivating history, cultural significance, and commitment to preserving traditional crafts make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic rural experience in India.
Jiulong Lake Town in Ningbo, China, has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its stunning scenery, numerous homestays, and easy access. The town’s success is rooted in the ‘Common Prosperity Workshop’ initiative, which focuses on promoting rural development and economic growth through agritourism. The State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Ningbo Electric Power Supply Company has played a crucial role in supporting this initiative by promoting ‘all-electric homestays’ and ensuring safe and reliable power supply for tourists.
Domestic tourism in Malaysia is experiencing a significant surge, with a 19% increase in visitors during the first quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year. Tourists are increasingly seeking unique and authentic experiences, driving a demand for rural tourism initiatives like the TOK program.
India’s rural areas are experiencing a surge in tourism, driven by a desire for authentic experiences and sustainable travel. Visitors can explore traditional villages, participate in agricultural activities, and connect with local communities, fostering cultural exchange and economic growth.
Vietnam’s rich agricultural heritage, traditional craft villages, and stunning landscapes are driving the growth of rural ecotourism. The country is promoting this sector by combining local culture, agriculture, and scenic beauty, creating unique experiences for both domestic and international tourists.
Kerala is stepping up its tourism efforts by promoting its rural landscapes and offering attractive packages for the upcoming festive season. The state is also hosting B2B networking events and trade fairs to reach a wider audience and strengthen its position as a top travel destination.
The Self-assessment Tool to Assist Rural Destinations (STAR), developed by the UN Tourism organization, empowers local authorities in rural areas to assess and advance their tourism development. By providing customized recommendations and benchmarking data, STAR supports sustainable and inclusive tourism policies. This tool enables rural destinations to self-evaluate their tourism policies and actions across various dimensions, including tourism governance, economic, social, and cultural sustainability, environmental sustainability, tourism development, and infrastructure. STAR’s unique features include tailored recommendations aligned with UN Tourism standards, benchmarking excellence, and extensive data analysis. As part of the UN Tourism’s Tourism for Rural Development program, STAR envisions tourism as a catalyst for rural development and well-being, promoting innovative and transformative approaches to tourism in rural destinations.
