Kheoni Sanctuary nestled in Vindhya’s lap in Madhya Pradesh emerging as a major eco-tourism attraction; how it is providing employment opportunities to locals
Located in the Vindhya mountain range, Kheoni Sanctuary is carving a unique niche for itself among Madhya Pradesh's emerging eco-tourism destinations. Spread across approximately 134 square kilometers on the border of Dewas and Sehore districts, this sanctuary attracts nature lovers, wildlife researchers, and tourists alike.
Dense forests, mountain valleys, flowing rivers and streams, and rich biodiversity make it a unique natural site. Local youth have been provided with employment opportunities through the Eco-Tourism Development Board.
Safari operations, food services, accommodation management, and small-scale industries are boosting the income of local youth, women, and artisans. Bookings for the sanctuary can be made through https://mpforest.gov.in/ecotourism/ecobooking/destination.aspx.
Approximately 89.9 square kilometers of this sanctuary, located in Dewas district, falls within Dewas district, while 44.8 square kilometers falls within Sehore district. Kheoni Sanctuary presents a beautiful example of balancing wildlife conservation and tourism.
Kheoni is home to towering mountains and numerous species of medicinal plants, reflecting its natural richness. A fully equipped tourist camp has been developed in the sanctuary for tourists, offering cottages, tents, watchtowers, pagodas, and dining facilities.
Rich Heritage of Wildlife and Biodiversity
The carnivorous wildlife in Kheoni Sanctuary includes tigers, leopards, bears, hyenas, wild dogs, jungle cats, golden jackals, and Asian palm civets, among many other species.
The major herbivores include spotted deer, sambar, nilgai, four-horned antelope, blackbuck, wild boar, and hares. Approximately 170 species of birds and about 65 species of butterflies further enrich the biodiversity of this sanctuary.
Major Attractions
The sanctuary boasts numerous attractive sites such as the Bal Ganga Temple, Kalam Talai Sunset Point, Eco View Point, Gol Kothi, Kheoni Meadow, Shankar Kho and Bhadbhada Waterfalls, Bhuri Valley, and Daulatpur Valley. The sight of the waterfalls, lush greenery, and mountain ranges, especially during the monsoon season, captivates tourists.
Efforts to Promote Tourism
Continuous efforts are being made to establish Kheoni Sanctuary prominently on the tourism map. Regular monitoring and proper management of tourist facilities are being ensured. Kheoni Sanctuary is located approximately 35 kilometers from Ashta on the Bhopal-Indore highway. It can also be reached via Kannod on the Indore-Nemawar-Harda route. The nearest railway station is Harda, and the nearest airports are Indore and Bhopal.
Due to its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and tranquil environment, Kheoni Sanctuary is becoming a popular choice for tourists and is giving a new direction to eco-tourism in Madhya Pradesh.