‘Heritage tourism in Uttar Pradesh has immense potential’: UP tourism principal secretary

Q/ Uttar Pradesh’s Tourism policy (2022) has promotion of focus tourism destinations and lesser-known destinations among its goals. How is this being done?

 

A/ Uttar Pradesh’s Tourism Policy 2022 is designed to highlight both well-known and lesser explored heritage sites, ensuring a balanced promotion of the state's rich cultural legacy. Under this, several historic temples, forts, palaces, and religious sites have been developed with better infrastructure, improved accessibility, and enhanced visitor experiences. The focus is not just on attracting more tourists but also on preserving the authenticity of these sites through conservation efforts. Beyond just physical development, digital promotion plays a key role, with virtual tours, online booking facilities, and social media campaigns attracting a wider audience. Additionally, efforts have been made to engage local communities through homestay programs, handicraft exhibitions, and regional cuisine experiences, ensuring economic benefits for local artisans and businesses. Through these initiatives, Uttar Pradesh is positioning itself as a leading heritage tourism destination in India, drawing both domestic and international travellers.

 

Q/ Does religious tourism in the state overshadow heritage tourism or would you say the two are working well together?

 

A/ Religious tourism and heritage tourism in Uttar Pradesh are closely linked and complement each other rather than one overshadowing the other. The state is home to significant religious sites such as Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Mathura, which attract millions of pilgrims. However, these places also possess deep historical and architectural significance. For instance, Varanasi is not only a spiritual hub but also a city with ancient temples, ghats, and a rich cultural heritage that appeals to history enthusiasts. Similarly, Ayodhya’s religious importance is intertwined with its historical temples and traditions. Mathura-Vrindavan, famous for Krishna devotion, also showcases architectural heritage that attracts tourists for reasons beyond just religion. This relationship can also be seen in places like Fatehpur Sikri and Agra, where heritage and spirituality converge. Thus, rather than one overshadowing the other, religious and heritage tourism in Uttar Pradesh work together to provide visitors with a rich and diverse experience.

 

Q/ While aggregate tourist inflow figures are available, what are the numbers that are specifically oriented towards heritage tourism? Where is this tourist inflow mainly coming from?

 

A/ Exact figures for heritage tourism in Uttar Pradesh can be difficult to separate, as many tourists visit for both religious and historical reasons. However, it is clear that heritage sites like Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Varanasi, and Lucknow attract a significant number of visitors. Tourists come from across India, especially from states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and West Bengal, as well as from international destinations such as the USA, UK, and Southeast Asia. Many travellers, even those on religious pilgrimages, often explore nearby heritage sites, making it hard to draw a strict line between the two. The growing interest in history, culture, and architecture ensures that heritage tourism remains an integral part of the state's overall tourist inflow.

 

Q/ What are the USPs of the state’s heritage sites?

 

A/ The unique selling points of our state’s heritage sites lie in their ability to offer more than just history—they provide immersive experiences that blend culture, architecture, and storytelling. The policy recognises that these sites are not just monuments but living cultural spaces where traditions, folklore, and local artistry thrive. Each site carries a distinct identity, shaped by centuries of craftsmanship, external influences, and historical significance. What sets them apart is their seamless integration of past and present—through heritage walks, cultural festivals, and interactive experiences that bring history to life. The policy emphasises not just preservation but also sustainable promotion, ensuring that these sites remain relevant while engaging local communities. By doing so, they continue to be dynamic centres of cultural exchange rather than static relics of the past.

 

Q/ What would you say are the selling points of UP’s heritage hotels and homestays – when they compare with, let us say, a state like Rajasthan?

 

A/ Heritage hotels and homestays in Uttar Pradesh offer a unique experience that blends history, tradition, and cultural immersion. While every state has its own charm, what makes UP’s heritage stays stand out is their deep connection to living traditions, where guests don’t just see history but become part of it. The focus is not just on architectural grandeur but on creating an atmosphere that reflects the cultural essence of the region. In comparison to states known for their royal past, heritage properties in UP offer a different kind of exclusivity—one that is rooted in storytelling, spirituality, and local traditions. Guests can experience handcrafted interiors, regional cuisine, and personalised hospitality that goes beyond luxury. The charm lies in the details—whether it’s the historic significance of the property, the traditional performances, or the carefully preserved local art. This makes heritage stays in UP an experience that feels authentic, immersive, and deeply connected to its surroundings.

 

Q/ Of all the circuits identified in the policy, which is the most heritage rich?

 

A/ Each heritage circuit identified in the policy is like a unique thread in the grand tapestry of our state’s history—each rich in its own way. Rather than measuring richness by the number of monuments, the true value of a circuit lies in the depth of its stories, the diversity of its cultural influences, and the immersive experiences it offers. For example, a circuit focused on ancient temples might take visitors on a spiritual and architectural journey, showcasing centuries-old craftsmanship and rituals that continue to this day. On the other hand, a fort and palace circuit might bring alive tales of valour, royal grandeur, and historic battles, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of kings and warriors. A tribal heritage circuit, in contrast, could introduce travellers to indigenous traditions, unique art forms, and age-old customs that are still practised in remote villages. Rather than ranking them, the policy ensures that each circuit is developed to highlight its unique strengths, making heritage tourism an experience rather than just a sightseeing activity. Whether it’s walking through bustling old markets, attending a folk performance, or exploring forgotten trade routes, each circuit has its own way of bringing history to life.

 

Q/ The policy also speaks of funds for research. How much, if any, has been disbursed for heritage research?

 

A/ The policy does emphasise financial support for heritage research, but the disbursement isn’t always a fixed figure. Instead, it is need-based, ensuring that funds are allocated strategically for projects that contribute to the preservation, exploration, and deeper understanding of our heritage. The government considers various factors, such as the significance of the research, its long-term impact, and the resources required, before determining the allocation. In many cases, funding is provided in phases, supporting archaeological excavations, conservation studies, and documentation initiatives. Rather than focusing solely on numbers, the goal is to ensure that research efforts receive adequate backing to uncover and safeguard our cultural legacy.

 

Q/ What are the main challenges that the state faces as regards heritage tourism?

 

A/ Heritage tourism in Uttar Pradesh has immense potential, but like any growing sector, there are a few challenges to address. One key aspect is the need for consistent preservation and maintenance of heritage sites to ensure their authenticity while accommodating the increasing number of visitors. The state is working diligently to balance these aspects, ensuring that both conservation efforts and tourism development go hand in hand. Another challenge is enhancing the infrastructure in lesser-explored heritage destinations. While popular sites attract significant attention, there is a growing focus on promoting hidden gems across the state, ensuring that they too receive adequate attention and development. Efforts are underway to improve connectivity, create engaging visitor experiences, and provide modern amenities without compromising the heritage value. These challenges, however, present opportunities for growth and innovation, with the state committed to fostering sustainable and immersive heritage tourism for the future.

 

Q/ Encroachments and defacements of heritage buildings are a problem, even in the state’s capital for instance. Similarly, there are many monuments such as Makka Darzi (Sitapur) which are encroached and falling apart, which some private individuals are trying to get government help to restore to no avail. And monuments such as these are in danger of being lost forever. How is this being dealt with?

 

A/ Heritage conservation is a continuous process, and the state is actively working to address concerns like encroachments and structural degradation. Efforts are being made to identify such monuments, collaborate with experts, and implement preservation initiatives to safeguard them for future generations. Strict measures are in place to curb unauthorised activities around heritage sites while also promoting awareness about their historical significance. Additionally, there is a growing push for public-private partnerships and community involvement in restoration projects. Heritage conservation is not just about protecting structures but also about reviving their cultural and historical relevance. By integrating these monuments into tourism circuits, encouraging responsible tourism, and leveraging modern conservation techniques, the goal is to ensure that such sites are preserved while also contributing to the larger vision of sustainable heritage tourism.

 

Q/ What kind of revenue share do you estimate the state can earn from heritage tourism (as part of the total revenue earned from tourism)?

 

A/ Heritage tourism plays a significant role in the state’s overall tourism revenue, contributing both directly and indirectly to the economy. While religious tourism remains a strong pillar, heritage tourism is steadily expanding its share, driven by increasing interest in cultural experiences, historical sites, and traditional architecture. With continued efforts in restoration, promotion, and infrastructure enhancement, this segment is expected to see substantial growth. Beyond direct earnings from entry fees and guided tours, heritage tourism also boosts local businesses, handicrafts, hospitality, and allied industries. The aim is not just to measure revenue in numbers but to create a self-sustaining ecosystem where heritage tourism fuels employment, local entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation. As more travellers seek immersive experiences, heritage tourism’s economic contribution is only set to rise, making it an integral part of the state’s tourism vision.

 

Q/ What makes heritage tourism an attractive investment proposition for private players in the state?

 

A/ In the contemporary travel landscape, individuals increasingly seek experiences that transport them to different eras rather than merely visiting locations. This trend has created significant opportunities for private investors to rejuvenate historic properties, transforming them into premium boutique accommodations, cultural retreats, and immersive hospitality ventures. There is a rising demand for curated experiences that seamlessly integrate luxury with heritage, rendering this sector both financially attractive and culturally significant. With policies encouraging private participation, coupled with infrastructure support and a rising interest in heritage-centric travel, the investment potential is immense. Reviving historic properties isn’t just about business—it’s about storytelling, craftsmanship, and creating timeless destinations that offer travellers something beyond the ordinary. It’s a chance to turn history into an asset while ensuring its legacy continues to inspire future generations.

 

Q/ What are some of the state’s prominent heritage tourism sites developed by the government?

 

A/ The essence of tourism lies not just in visiting a place but in experiencing its soul, and that’s exactly what the state is focusing on. Instead of simply preserving historical sites, the approach has been to transform them into immersive destinations where heritage meets storytelling, tradition blends with modern convenience, and travellers can truly feel the legacy of the past. Significant efforts have gone into reviving lesser-known gems, restoring architectural marvels, and enhancing accessibility, ensuring that visitors don’t just see history but live it. For instance, the redevelopment of Kothi Gulistan-e-Iram (Lucknow) has turned it into a cultural hub, showcasing the grandeur of its past while providing a space for artistic and heritage events. Similarly, the Chunargarh Fort (Mirzapur), with its deep historical significance, has been integrated into curated heritage circuits, bringing its stories to life through guided experiences and digital innovations. This commitment to blending conservation with innovation ensures that history remains dynamic, drawing not just history enthusiasts but also new-age travellers seeking authenticity.

Tourism