As Uttar Pradesh strengthens its hold as a tourism powerhouse, the state government is now shifting its focus beyond the iconic spiritual destinations of Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Mathura. The new thrust is on Western Uttar Pradesh, especially in the National Capital Region (NCR), where districts like Ghaziabad, Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Bulandshahr, and Hapur are set to undergo a major transformation with the Centre’s financial support.
In a significant push, the National Capital Region Planning Board (NCRPB) has sanctioned a package of Rs 85 crore aimed at bolstering tourism infrastructure across these districts. The move is part of a joint effort by the central and state governments to diversify the tourism map of the state and tap into the rich cultural, historical, and spiritual heritage of western UP.
Uttar Pradesh Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh said the initiative reflects a strategic vision to promote lesser-known but equally significant destinations. “Western Uttar Pradesh is home to a wealth of heritage sites that have remained on the fringes of mainstream tourism for far too long. Places like Shukratal in Muzaffarnagar, which sits on the serene banks of the Ganga, hold immense spiritual importance. It is believed to be the site where sage Shukadeva first narrated the Shrimad Bhagavatam to King Parikshit under a sacred banyan tree,” he told this reporter.
Shukratal is now poised for a revival with a dedicated investment of Rs 12.68 crore, which will fund an integrated tourism development project along with a sound-and-light show to narrate its mythological significance. Similarly, Meerut — a city steeped in India’s freedom struggle — will receive Rs 4.53 crore for the upgradation of historic sites related to the 1857 Revolt, including the iconic Shaheed Smarak, which honors the martyrs of India’s first war of independence.
In Bulandshahr district, Rs 11.37 crore has been sanctioned for the development of the Maa Avantika Devi Temple, a revered site attracting devotees throughout the year. Nearby Ghaziabad will witness the development of the ancient Dudheshwar Nath Temple, for which Rs 5.52 crore has been allocated. Other projects in the district are also set to benefit from additional funding to promote religious and cultural tourism.
Meanwhile, the ancient city of Hastinapur in Meerut district, believed to be the capital of the Kauravas from the Mahabharata era, will receive a substantial allocation of Rs 15.04 crore. The funds will be utilised to develop infrastructure supporting integrated tourism, with a focus on improving access, amenities, and guided experiences that narrate its historical and mythological legacy.
In Sardhana, known for its imposing Basilica of Our Lady of Graces built by Begum Samru in the 19th century, Rs 4.54 crore has been allocated to restore and enhance tourist facilities. Projects already underway in Hapur and Muzaffarnagar districts will also be extended financial assistance for their timely completion, ensuring that no part of the region is left behind in this tourism revival mission.
Minister Jaiveer Singh said that these developments mark a crucial step in Uttar Pradesh’s ambition to not only retain its top position in domestic tourism — a rank it currently holds — but to also emerge as a leading destination for international travelers. “We are working with a long-term vision. Our goal is to promote regional tourism circuits that celebrate UP’s rich diversity — from mythology and spirituality to history and nature. These new projects will generate employment, promote local economies, and put these towns firmly on the tourism map,” he added.
The comprehensive plan also aligns with the broader tourism strategy of the Yogi Adityanath-led government, which has been aggressively promoting religious and heritage tourism as a means of cultural preservation and economic development.
