The management of Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) has started agro-tourism in Kolitmara, situated on the western bank of Pench river under Nagalwadi buffer range of the reserve west side. The project involves bullock cart riding, buffalo riding and participation in farm activity.
Tourists will be introduced to rich tribal culture, their daily life, festivals etc and will be told about farming techniques of different crop varieties being grown in the village. They can also enjoy boating in the nearby Pench river in the backdrop of scenic serene forest landscape, informed Dr Prabhu Nath Shukla, Deputy Director, PTR, Nagpur, on Thursday.
Kolitmara, which is situated 70 km from Nagpur, is a paradise for the nature lovers and bird lovers. Tourists can watch rich bird diversity and heritage of the area. Star gazing and staying at ‘machaans’ erected in the village farm would make their night stay memorable. Other features include: interaction with tribal community, rural games, sunrise, sunset views. Local cuisine will be cooked and served to visitors in agriculture farm and by using locally fresh grown vegetables. A local guide would accompany the tourists during their visit, informed Dr Shukla.
This is a joint project of PTR through Koilitmara Eco-Development Committee and Anandibai Self-Help Group. Kolitmara is also having staying facility in its tourism complex while tourists can book safari also. Canter may be provided to large groups. Tourists c an book Kolitmara agro-ecotourism facility through PTR Control Room no: 8261091346. However, other facility can be booked only online through mahaecotourism.gov.in. The cost of all the activities is Rs 2,000/- family excluding ‘machaan’ stay and food. The project envisages to provide direct employment to about 50 local persons, he added.
