Kukru of Betul is famous for natural beauty, coffee plantations and tribal culture. Now the tourism project worth Rs 15 crore will give a new impetus to eco-tourism and employment here.
Located in Bhainsdehi tehsil of Betul district of Madhya Pradesh, Kukru is rapidly attracting people’s attention due to its natural beauty, greenery and peaceful environment. Situated at an altitude of about 3,668 feet above sea level, this delightful place offers a wonderful view of clouds, dense forests and fog during monsoon. The Adna river flowing here, mixed forests and huge Telia teak trees make its natural identity more special.
Due to pleasant weather throughout the year, this place is a center of attraction for nature lovers as well as tourists who like trekking, biking and adventure. Sunrise Point and Sunset Point present in Kukru give a memorable experience to the tourists coming here. Apart from this, this region is also known for coffee production as well as forest produce like Kodo-Kutki, honey, Amla, Harra, Bahera, Safed Musli and Bhilwa. Traditional dishes prepared from local coarse grains and handicrafts made from forest products strengthen the cultural identity of this place.
Kukru Coffee Garden: 80 year old coffee legacy still persists
Kukru-Khamla region also has a special identity due to its historical coffee farming. Coffee cultivation was started here for the first time in the year 1944. For this reason, this area became one of the important coffee producing areas of Madhya Pradesh. High quality Arabica coffee is being cultivated on about 10 acres of land in the coffee garden spread over an area of about 110 acres. Madhya Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board and Forest Department are jointly doing the work of conservation and development of these coffee plantations, so that in the coming time, this area can create a new identity in both tourism and agriculture sectors.
MP Tourism: Big announcement by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, new tourism circuit will be built
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav recently visited Kukru and announced to develop it among the major tourist destinations of Madhya Pradesh. The government will develop an integrated tourism circuit connecting Kukru, Chikhaldara, Muktagiri and Melghat at a cost of about Rs 15 crore.
Under this project, sunrise and sunset points will be developed in a modern way along with promoting eco-tourism. Apart from this, eco resorts with modern facilities will be built. Along with strengthening the tourism infrastructure, trekking, nature trails and other adventure activities will also be promoted, so that the tourists coming here can get a better experience.
Homestay Scheme: New employment opportunities for tribal families
In order to ensure that local people also benefit from tourism development, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has announced to start a homestay scheme for tribal families. These homestays will be operated as per the arrangements of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. Tourists will be able to book these through the online platform of Madhya Pradesh Tourism. This scheme will provide new employment and self-employment opportunities to the local people. Also, tourists will get an opportunity to closely see and understand the tribal culture, traditions and local lifestyle.
How to Reach Kukru: Now easier than ever to reach Kukru
The distance of Kukru from the capital Bhopal is about 270 kilometers, while this place is located about 90 kilometers away from Betul. By rail, many regular train services including Vande Bharat Express, Chhattisgarh Express are available between Bhopal and Betul. After reaching Betul, Kukru can be easily reached through taxi and local vehicles. It is convenient to reach here by road via Bhopal, Betul and Shahpur. The final mountain route is full of greenery and scenic views, making the journey even more memorable.
Eco Tourism in Madhya Pradesh: A wonderful experience of nature, culture and adventure
Kukru is one of those selected tourist destinations where a unique confluence of natural beauty, coffee plantations, tribal culture and eco-tourism can be seen. Rest house facility is available for tourists to stay in the Eco Tourism Center present here. Trained staff by Madhya Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board (MPEDB) provides essential services to the tourists. Especially during the monsoon season, the surrounding greenery, clouds and calm atmosphere make Kukru one of the most beautiful nature tourist destinations in Madhya Pradesh.