Chhattisgarh to Open Rare ‘Green Cave’ in Kanger Valley National Park, Aiming to Boost Eco-Tourism and Local Employment

Raipur | January 6, 2026 Chhattisgarh is set to add a unique natural attraction to its tourism map with the upcoming opening of the newly discovered “Green Cave” in Kanger Valley National Park. The limestone cave, known for its rare green microbial formations, is expected to draw nature lovers and adventure tourists while creating new livelihood opportunities for local communities. The announcement was confirmed by Chhattisgarh Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap, who said the Forest Department is actively working to open the cave to visitors in the near future. He noted that the initiative is part of the state’s broader effort to promote eco-tourism while ensuring conservation and sustainable development in forest regions. According to him, the Green Cave has the potential to significantly boost tourism in Bastar and generate employment for people living around the national park. The Green Cave is located in Compartment No. 85 of the Kutumsar cave complex inside Kanger Valley National Park, which is already known internationally for its rich biodiversity and striking landscapes. What makes this cave special is the presence of microscopic green microbial layers found on the stalactites that hang from its walls and ceiling. These green formations give the cave its name and make it one of the rarest geological features in the region. Formed from limestone and shale, the cave is considered a highly specialised natural structure. Visitors reaching the site must cross a rocky path with large stones before entering the cave. Once inside, the green-coated walls immediately catch the eye, creating a visual experience that is both unusual and captivating. As one moves deeper, the cave opens into a spacious chamber filled with massive stalactites and flow-stones, which are stone layers formed by the continuous flow of water over thousands of years. Officials said the cave’s natural beauty, combined with its location inside dense forest, makes it a strong candidate to emerge as a new tourism hotspot in Chhattisgarh. However, they stressed that public access will be allowed only with strict safeguards in place to protect the fragile ecosystem inside the cave. The Forest Department is currently developing basic infrastructure to make the site accessible and safe for tourists. This includes building approach roads, creating walking paths, and putting in place safety measures for visitors. Regular monitoring and security arrangements are also being planned to prevent damage to the cave’s delicate formations and to regulate tourist movement. Minister Kashyap said the state is committed to balancing tourism growth with environmental protection. He added that controlled tourism will not only preserve the cave but also help educate visitors about the importance of conserving such rare natural heritage sites. Local youth are expected to benefit through jobs linked to guiding, maintenance, security, and other tourism-related services. Senior forest officials have been closely involved in planning the project. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force V. Srinivasan and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Arun Pandey have played a key role in pushing forward the initiative. They have been overseeing both conservation planning and tourism development to ensure the cave is opened responsibly. Kanger Valley National Park, located in the Bastar region, is already home to well-known caves such as Kutumsar and Kailash caves, along with rich flora and fauna. The addition of the Green Cave is expected to strengthen the park’s position as a major eco-tourism destination in central India. With preparations underway, officials believe the Green Cave will soon offer visitors a rare chance to witness a unique natural wonder while supporting sustainable tourism. The project reflects Chhattisgarh’s growing focus on showcasing its natural treasures without compromising ecological balance, making the Green Cave a promising new chapter in the state’s tourism and conservation efforts. Chhattisgarh to Open Rare ‘Green Cave’ in Kanger Valley National Park, Aiming to Boost Eco-Tourism and Local Employment Chhattisgarh is set to introduce a new natural attraction with the upcoming opening of the newly discovered “Green Cave” inside Kanger Valley National Park. The Forest Department is preparing to open the cave for tourists, with the aim of promoting eco-tourism and creating local job opportunities in the Bastar region. Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap said the Green Cave will be added to the state’s tourism map soon and is expected to boost regional development. Located in Compartment No. 85 of the Kutumsar cave complex, the cave is known for its rare green microbial layers found on the stalactites hanging from its walls and ceiling. These microscopic formations give the cave its unique name and make it one of the most special geological sites in the park. Made of limestone and shale, the cave offers a striking visual experience. Visitors enter through a rocky path and are greeted by green-coated cave walls. Deeper inside, a large chamber opens up with massive stalactites and flow-stones formed over thousands of years by running water. The Forest Department is developing access roads and walking paths while ensuring strict monitoring to protect the fragile ecosystem. Senior forest officials are overseeing the project to balance tourism and conservation. Already known for its biodiversity, Kanger Valley National Park is expected to become an even bigger eco-tourism destination with the addition of the Green Cave.