Terai region in UP emerging as ecotourism hub
Lucknow, May 8 (UNI) While religious tourism continues to grow in Uttar Pradesh with destinations like Ayodhya, Kashi, and Mathura drawing visitors across India and abroad, the Terai region, featuring biodiversity hotspots like Dudhwa, Pilibhit and Katarniaghat, is rapidly emerging as a top ecotourism destination, sources said here on Thursday.
Sources said that major projects such as the Ramayana Circuit, Krishna-Braj Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, Shaktipeeth Circuit, Sufi-Kabir Circuit and Jain Circuit have elevated religious tourism to new heights.
Sources said that Lakhimpur Kheri has emerged as an eco-tourism hotspot. "The state government is developing modern facilities near Chandan Chowki and Sharda Barrage at Lakhimpur Kheri. Eco lodges, tenting and glamping at Chandan Chowki, along with a tent city and water sports at Sharda Barrage, are set to boost nature and adventure tourism in the area," they said.
Sources said that visitors will also immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous Tharu community. "Cultural programmes and exhibitions of traditional crafts will provide an authentic insight into the Tharu way of life, creating a vibrant and educational experience for tourists," they said.
Sources said that these initiatives aim to attract tourists, generate employment for local communities and promote environmental stewardship. "With the support of trained nature guides, visitors will gain deeper knowledge about the area's diverse flora, fauna and birdlife," they said.Sources said that the Yogi government has taken robust policy measures to institutionalise ecotourism.
"The Tourism Policy 2022 prioritises wildlife and ecotourism circuits and such sites are being developed in each district under the 'One District, One Destination' scheme. Establishing the UP Eco-Tourism Development Board has further accelerated efforts in this direction," they said.
Sources said that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has often emphasised that UP is abundantly blessed by nature and divinity.
"With this guiding vision, the state is steadily moving toward becoming the nation's leading ecotourism destination," they said.
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