Uttar Pradesh Unveils Ambitious Heritage Tourism Policy, Drawing Inspiration from Rajasthan’s Success

Uttar Pradesh is poised to become a leading heritage tourism destination, unveiling an ambitious new policy focused on breathing new life into its rich historical legacy. The state government is actively developing a Heritage Tourism Policy centered on the adaptive reuse of its magnificent forts, palaces, and mansions, transforming them into immersive and engaging tourist attractions. This initiative takes inspiration from the resounding success of Rajasthan’s heritage tourism model, proving that preserving history and fostering economic growth can go hand in hand.

On December 7th, 2024, the Uttar Pradesh Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), hosted a pivotal Heritage Tourism Conclave in Lucknow. This significant event gathered over 50 key players, including representatives from royal families, prominent hospitality groups, influential investors, and experienced consultants. The purpose? To collaboratively refine the draft policy before its final approval by the state cabinet. The conclave provided a crucial platform for open dialogue and feedback, ensuring the policy effectively addresses the needs and aspirations of all stakeholders.

Prateek Hira, Chairman of FICCI’s UP Tourism Committee, highlighted the burgeoning popularity of experiential travel. He emphasized the growing demand for tourists to actively engage with the history and culture of the destinations they visit. He cited Rajasthan’s successful adaptive reuse strategy as a prime example, showcasing how the preservation of historical buildings can not only safeguard cultural heritage but also contribute to sustainable, long-term economic viability for local communities.

Mukesh Kr. Meshram, Principal Secretary and Director General of Tourism, reiterated the state government’s unwavering commitment to supporting this transformative initiative. He outlined the government’s plans to provide crucial infrastructure upgrades, attractive fiscal incentives, and enhanced visibility through improved signage – all designed to bolster the success of the policy. Furthermore, he announced that several significant heritage properties under the state archaeology department have already been leased to reputable hotel chains, with numerous exciting projects poised for imminent launch.

Eesha Priya, Special Secretary for Tourism, presented the draft policy’s key features, including carefully designed subsidies intended to encourage widespread participation from both the public and private sectors. Prakhar Misra, Director of Tourism, showcased Uttar Pradesh’s incredibly diverse heritage offerings, emphasizing the untapped potential for eco-tourism and adventure activities to further enhance the visitor experience and attract a broader range of tourists.

The conclave culminated in an invaluable open feedback session led by Prateek Hira, providing a final opportunity for stakeholders to contribute their invaluable insights and help shape the policy’s final form. This collaborative approach underscores Uttar Pradesh’s dedication to creating a truly exceptional and sustainable heritage tourism sector, ensuring the preservation of its historical treasures while simultaneously generating significant economic opportunities for the state and its people. The policy’s successful implementation promises to firmly establish Uttar Pradesh as a premier destination for heritage tourism in India and beyond.

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