Kolkata/Orchha, April 8, 2025: In a significant step towards the preservation of heritage and the promotion of sustainable tourism in Orchha, a workshop was organized on Monday at Hotel Betwa Retreat under UNESCO’s Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) initiative. Implemented in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, this initiative is being carried out in Gwalior and Orchha—South Asia’s first cities selected by UNESCO for this program.
UNESCO presented the final HUL report for these cities on 24th May 2023. The report includes a comprehensive master plan and specific guidelines for construction around historic structures. These recommendations have been forwarded to various departments for integration into Orchha’s master plan.
On this occasion, Bidisha Mukherjee, Additional Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, said, “The HUL initiative plays a crucial role in conserving the heritage and natural beauty of Orchha while promoting tourism. It will not only strengthen the local economy but also create new employment opportunities for the youth. Orchha’s growing tourism sector is helping our cultural heritage gain global recognition.”
The workshop focused on conserving Orchha’s cultural heritage while ensuring economic development. A heritage walk was also organized as part of the event. UNESCO’s HUL initiative, launched in 2011, aims to promote sustainable development through the conservation of urban heritage.
A key outcome of the workshop was the decision to prepare an annual calendar of cultural events in Orchha, enhancing the town’s visibility on the global tourism map.
This initiative has significantly boosted self-employment opportunities in Orchha, and the Tourism Board continues to strengthen tourism infrastructure. If the recommendations are implemented effectively, Orchha’s historic and cultural significance will be preserved while accelerating its overall development.