Latest news with #UttarPradeshTourismDepartment
Indian Express
23-07-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Govt to highlight UP's cultural, spiritual & natural diversity at Japan Tourism Expo in Sept
The state government is preparing to showcase the state's cultural, spiritual, and natural diversity at Japan Tourism Expo 2025, scheduled from September 25 to 28. The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department will participate and highlight the state's heritage to a global audience, particularly visitors from Japan and the Asia-Pacific region, a statement issued on Wednesday said. A themed pavilion spanning 54 square metres will be set up at the venue. This space will offer immersive glimpses into Uttar Pradesh's cultural richness to captivate international tourists and investors alike. Parallelly, the third edition of the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UPITS-2025) will also reflect the state's vibrant heritage. A 465-square-metre pavilion at India Expo Centre and Mart in Greater Noida will host live demonstrations of traditional folk art, classical dances, and showcases of the famed Buddhist circuit — all curated to draw attention from global visitors. Beyond tourism promotion, the move also aligns with strengthening Indo-Japanese economic ties. In 2023–24, the government stated, India exported goods worth Rs 42,800 crore to Japan, including engineering goods, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. In return, imports from Japan totaled Rs 1.47 lakh crore, dominated by electronics, advanced machinery, and rare-earth materials. The UP government looks forward to attracting investment in the state's tourism sector, particularly in heritage hotels, wellness centres, and eco-resorts under the PPP model — sectors increasingly attractive to Japanese investors. The government also claimed that 2.4 lakh Japanese tourists visited India in 2024, contributing approximately Rs 1,200 crore to the Indian economy. These tourists stayed an average of 16.3 days, spending about Rs 1.45 lakh per person. In contrast, 2.33 lakh Indian tourists travelled to Japan, spending roughly ¥56.1 billion (Rs 3,366 crore). Recognizing this mutual tourism potential, the government aims to strategically position Uttar Pradesh not only as an attractive investment destination but also as a 'most favored tourist destination' for Japanese travelers. At the Japan Tourism Expo, information about Uttar Pradesh's top tourist destinations will be shared with Japanese visitors. To make this easier, special booklets will be printed in both English and Japanese. Visitors will also be able to access details and make bookings through the UP Tourism Department's mobile app. A major focus will be on the Buddhist Circuit (Sarnath, Kushinagar, Shravasti, Kaushambi, Sankisa, and Kapilvastu), which is expected to attract Japanese Buddhist tourists. In addition, Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, and Rural Tourism will be promoted to match the health and spiritual interests of Japanese travelers. The UP pavilion will use advanced technology like digital LED screens, auto-navigation displays, and AR-based selfie panels to offer an immersive experience. Visitors will also get a glimpse of the state's handicrafts, culture, music and festivals, enriching their overall experience, said the statement.
News18
23-07-2025
- News18
Temples, Tourism, Tribute: Atal Bihari Vajpayee's Village Bateshwar Set For Grand Makeover
UP government has approved a Rs 27 crore project aimed at revitalising this culturally rich but lesser-known destination in the Agra district. Bateshwar, a tranquil village located along the Yamuna River in Agra and known as the ancestral home of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, is about to undergo a significant transformation. In an effort to promote spiritual tourism and honour Vajpayee's legacy, the Uttar Pradesh government has approved a Rs 27 crore project aimed at revitalising this culturally rich but lesser-known destination in the Agra district. Officials noted that Bateshwar, often overshadowed by the global allure of the Taj Mahal, is home to a rare chain of 101 ancient Shiva temples that line the Yamuna River. Constructed in the traditional Nagara architectural style during the Pratihara dynasty, these temples are both sacred and architecturally significant. The government's objective is to establish Bateshwar as a notable destination on India's religious tourism map. Tourism department officials revealed that the Rs 27 crore package will be allocated to various components to improve spiritual infrastructure, ease access for pilgrims, and enhance civic amenities. Of the total allocation, Rs 19 crore will be dedicated to renovating the ghats, stretching from the revered Gopaleshwar Mahadev Temple to the cultural complex on the riverfront. The upgrades will include beautification, strengthening of embankments, safe access steps, aesthetic lighting, and viewing decks. 'The ghats are the heart of religious activity here, especially during the annual Bateshwar Fair. This facelift will make pilgrimages safer and more enriching," said Ashutosh Kumar, Assistant Director, Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department. To give Bateshwar a distinguished entry, two imposing gateways will be constructed—one on the Firozabad Road and the other along the Agra-Lucknow Expressway. Designed to reflect the local cultural ethos and traditional temple motifs, these entrances will cost Rs 5 crore in total. Additionally, Rs 1 crore has been earmarked for installing modern eco-tourism signage in the Rapri region, which borders the National Chambal Sanctuary. 'These signages will not only aid navigation but also introduce visitors to the region's diverse heritage – spiritual, natural, and historical," Kumar added. Basic infrastructure improvements worth Rs 2 crore will cover internal roads, street lighting, sanitation, and parking areas. 'Our aim is to make Bateshwar clean, accessible, and welcoming for all," he said. A Big Move for Locals For the residents of Bateshwar, the announcement has brought a wave of excitement and hope. 'This is the biggest thing to happen to our village in years," said Rajendra Vajpayee, a distant relative of the former PM who still resides in the original Vajpayee family home. 'Atalji never forgot Bateshwar, and now the state is remembering him through this project. It feels like justice to his memory," he added. Shopkeeper Shivam Tiwari, whose small stall sells puja items near the ghats, believes the changes will attract more visitors and improve livelihoods. 'During the annual fair, lakhs come, but for the rest of the year, it's quiet. With new roads, lighting, and signs, even off-season tourism will improve," he said. Schoolteacher Manorama Mishra, who also runs a local heritage club for students, hopes the plan will also preserve the ecological sanctity of the area. 'The Yamuna here is still relatively clean. It's not like what you see in cities. If development is done sensitively, it can become a model of eco-spiritual tourism," she said. What Does the Tourism Minister Say? Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh stated that the project is part of a broader initiative to decentralise tourism in Uttar Pradesh and bring attention to lesser-known spiritual and cultural sites. 'Agra is synonymous with the Taj Mahal globally, but there is so much more in this region. Bateshwar, with its temple heritage and its connection to one of India's tallest leaders, deserves prominence," said Singh. He mentioned that new tourism circuits are being developed, which include Kannauj, Braj, and now Bateshwar, aimed at empowering local communities and preserving cultural traditions. Officials noted that the new travel circuit aims to attract not only domestic pilgrims but also international tourists seeking authentic cultural experiences beyond mainstream destinations. The UP Tourism department indicated that work on the project is expected to begin later this year, once detailed tenders and conservation plans are finalised. The district administration has already initiated preliminary surveys, and coordination with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is underway for work near protected monuments. As Bateshwar prepares to welcome a new wave of pilgrims and tourists, residents are hopeful that the transformation will not only boost their economy but also reaffirm the cultural and spiritual identity of a village closely tied to one of India's most beloved leaders. 'Bateshwar has waited long for its due. Maybe now, under the light of these 101 temples and Atalji's legacy, our time has come," said 78-year-old Ram Dayal Dubey, a retired school principal and lifelong devotee at the ghats. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
18-07-2025
- News18
Echoes Of Kashi: Walk Through Varanasi With UP's Audiobook That Tells Ganga's Tales In 13 Languages
Last Updated: UP Tourism is set to launch a GPS-enabled, app-integrated audiobook system that will guide your steps while covering all 84 ghats of Varanasi. the Ghats of Kashi will no longer remain silent. Instead, they will become living storytellers, speaking in 13 languages, narrating the legacy of gods and pilgrims, and inviting the world to not just see — but listen to — the soul of India. All this is set to become a reality as the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department embarks on a groundbreaking digital initiative to transform the way the world experiences Varanasi. They are going to launch a GPS-enabled, app-integrated audiobook system that will guide your steps while covering all 84 ghats of Varanasi. The idea is simple but powerful: to let visitors walk, sail, or even explore from afar while listening to professionally narrated content that brings to life the historical, religious, and cultural significance of each ghat — all through the UP Tourism mobile app. 'This digital audiobook will turn every walk along the Ganga into a spiritual and cultural journey. It's about telling Kashi's story the way it deserves to be heard — soulfully, accessibly, and globally," said Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary, Tourism. Authentic Stories in 13 Languages Officials said the GPS-enabled audiobook will be programmed in Hindi and English, narrated by professional storytellers, and further translated into 13 languages using the Government of India's AI-powered Anuvadini platform. These include 8 Indian languages — Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Gujarati, Kannada, Odia, Malayalam, Urdu — and 5 international ones — French, German, Spanish, Japanese, and Korean. 'Kashi has always belonged to the world. This app will help people in Tokyo, Toronto, or Thiruvananthapuram connect with its divine rhythm," said Dr Shashikant Pandey, Head of Political Science at Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar University. Expert-Backed, Artistically Voiced Each ghat's script — limited to 2 minutes to retain listener interest — will be created by a team of researchers and vetted by a panel comprising historians, ASI officials, and cultural experts. This ensures factual accuracy and cultural sensitivity. These scripts will then be recorded by voice-over artists chosen specifically for their clarity, tone, and connection to the spiritual ethos of Varanasi. To enhance immersion, the background audio will include subtle effects — such as temple bells, river waves, conch sounds, or distant chants — designed not to overpower but enrich the narration. Offline Ready, Elder Friendly The app will also offer offline downloads so that users on boat rides or in areas with poor network connectivity can still access the content. The interface will be kept simple and intuitive, with pause/play options, chapter selection by ghat, and transcript toggles for the hearing impaired. 'Many elderly pilgrims or foreigners don't engage with printed guides or QR codes. This voice-led journey will feel more natural and accessible," noted Anupama Chauhan, Joint Director, UP Tourism. Rollout and Expansion Plans The rollout of the GPS-enabled audiobook system for Varanasi's 84 ghats will take place in three structured phases. Phase 1, covering the first three months, will focus on research, scriptwriting in Hindi and English, expert vetting by a panel of historians and ASI officials, and voiceover recording by professional artists. The content will then be translated into 13 languages using the AI-based Anuvadini platform. After editing and integration into the UP Tourism mobile app and website, with GPS-based triggers and offline access, the system will undergo internal testing and, following approval from the Tourism Department, be launched for public use. Phase 2 will span the next 36 months, focusing on content and technical maintenance, language updates, user feedback monitoring, and analytics reporting. The agency will ensure hosting support and smooth functionality across devices. Phase 3, an optional 24-month extension, may expand the system to nearby temples, heritage streets, or thematic trails, and potentially include advanced features such as AR/VR or AI-guided tours. This phased rollout ensures long-term sustainability and continuous enrichment of Varanasi's spiritual and cultural tourism experience. Transforming Heritage into a Living Classroom This initiative is not just about convenience or tourism numbers — it's about cultural preservation and emotional connectivity. 'You can build temples and pathways, but making people understand the spirit of a place — that requires storytelling. This app will be Kashi's voice," said Prof Rajeev Sinha, a historian involved in the content design process. With over 7 crore tourists visiting Varanasi in 2023 alone, including nearly 9 lakh foreigners, UP's Tourism Department hopes this step will boost experiential tourism, promote inclusivity, and create lasting emotional bonds between Kashi and its visitors. Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Indian Express
17-07-2025
- Indian Express
Govt to restore ancient Shiva temples across state
THE STATE government is working on a plan to restore Shiva temples across Uttar Pradesh to boost local tourism. Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, Uttar Pradesh Projects Corporation limited and Uttar Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation Ltd have collaborated to undertake restoration projects across the state, which includes not just the restoration of Shiva temples but the amenities and other sites adjoining these places as well. Officials informed that 188 ancient temples were identified and rejuvenated in the past eight years and now the focus is on to identify and renovate Shiva temples across the state aiming to boost religious tourism. The old temples and their premises that have been identified for infrastructure upgrades include Shiv Mandir in Bhatta Ki Pipri (Mevalikhurd), Fatehabad (Agra) and Chakleshwar Mahadev and Samaur Baba temples in Firozabad, which are being rennovated through UP Projects Corporation Limited. Whereas, UP State Tourism Development Corporation has been given the responsibility to enhance facilities at Bhuleshwar, Khajni Mahadev, and Jharkhandi Mahadev temples in Gorakhpur, and Tirre Manorama Temple in Gonda. The government is also working on the beautification of Ghanta Ghar in Mainpuri.
Hindustan Times
13-07-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Prayagraj to get 800 registered home stays under new policy
Tourists visiting Prayagraj can look forward to improved lodging options as the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department rolls out its new Home Stay and Bed & Breakfast Policy-2025, replacing the previous paying guest system. The initiative aims to set up around 800 registered home stay and B&B units across the city, providing visitors with comfortable accommodation and food services. Lonikot home stay in Prayagraj (HT) Aparajita Singh, regional tourist officer of Prayagraj, explained that the new policy distinguishes between urban and rural home stays to ensure both quality and authenticity. In urban areas like Prayagraj, eligible home stays must be fully residential properties where the owners reside on-site. Property owners can rent out up to two-thirds of their rooms—ranging from one to six rooms or a maximum of 12 beds. However, larger establishments such as hotels or guest houses are not eligible under this policy. In the urban areas, breakfast is mandatory for guests, while rural home stays in Prayagraj will provide full meal services, immersing tourists in a genuine rural lifestyle. These rural units must meet basic infrastructure standards, including bathrooms, toilets, running water, electricity, and essential furniture. Safety remains a priority under the new policy. Each registered home stay or B&B in Prayagraj must have a caretaker on site, at least three CCTV cameras with 90 days of recording, and fire safety equipment approved by the fire department. Only units meeting these criteria will be registered. The registration process is streamlined through the online portal with applications vetted by a committee led by Prayagraj's district magistrate before approval by the directorate of tourism. Registration fees vary based on categories: Silver and Gold, with urban units paying higher fees than rural ones. The rates fixed include: Silver ( ₹2000 for urban home stay/B&B units, ₹500 for rural units) and Gold ( ₹3000 for urban units, ₹750 for rural units). Current paying guest accommodations in Prayagraj must update their facilities and register under the new policy within one year to continue operating legally. This policy marks a significant step toward promoting safer, more authentic, and quality tourism experiences in Prayagraj, positioning the city as a key destination for both domestic and international travelers.
