By Mewati Sitaram
In a focused effort to elevate Uttar Pradesh’s profile as a leading tourism destination, the Department of Tourism held a strategic meeting aimed at enhancing hospitality standards and landscape development across the state. The meeting was chaired by Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and attended by Dasmeet Singh, AVP at OYO, along with Prakhar Misra, Director of UP Eco Tourism.
The dialogue revolved around creating a more enriching experience for travellers by improving infrastructure, encouraging sustainable practices, and expanding hospitality options. Discussions included the integration of digital tools, quality accommodation, and destination-specific enhancements to attract a larger influx of both domestic and international tourists. Stakeholders stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in driving meaningful change, particularly in culturally rich and eco-sensitive zones.
Uttar Pradesh has emerged as one of India’s most diverse and immersive tourism states, offering a harmonious blend of spirituality, heritage, wildlife, and natural beauty. The state’s celebrated Heritage Arc connects Agra—home to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort—with Lucknow’s Nawabi-era charm and the ancient spiritual city of Varanasi. Key pilgrimage destinations like Mathura, Vrindavan, Ayodhya, and the Buddhist circuit including Sarnath, Kushinagar, and Shravasti add significant religious value to the tourism map.
Historical destinations such as Jhansi and Orchha in Bundelkhand, known for Rani Lakshmibai and grand forts, further enrich the visitor’s journey. For nature enthusiasts, Dudhwa National Park, Katarniaghat, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, and Haiderpur Wetland offer lush biodiversity and a sanctuary for migratory birds. With this unmatched diversity, Uttar Pradesh consistently ranks among the top domestic tourist destinations in India.
The presence of tech-driven hospitality partners like OYO at the meeting reflected the government’s intent to harness innovation and scalability to boost tourism. Proposals included digitised booking systems, standardised stay experiences, and improved eco-tourism circuits. Initiatives like the Vistadome safari and the upcoming Dudhwa Festival further showcase the state’s vision of blending modern tourism infrastructure with traditional values and ecological preservation, paving the way for a more holistic and inclusive tourism experience.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
