Record Domestic and International Visits
Uttar Pradesh (UP) led India’s domestic tourism in 2025, attracting over 1.37 billion domestic travelers. The state also ranked fourth in international arrivals, welcoming approximately 366,000 foreign tourists, according to the Union Ministry of Tourism.
The Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025 was a major highlight, drawing more than 660 million devotees, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in history.
Pilgrimage and Cultural Attractions Drive Tourism
Major pilgrimage and heritage centers such as Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura–Vrindavan, Shravasti, and Prayagraj witnessed steady tourist inflow. Cultural festivals, including Deepotsav, Dev Deepawali, Rangotsav, Magh Mela, and other district-level events, supported year-round tourism.
Improved connectivity, including expanded airports, upgraded rail and road networks, and increased hotels and homestays, further strengthened UP’s tourism infrastructure.
Significant Investments and Tourism Policy Initiatives
The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Policy 2022 encouraged private participation, registering over 1,700 tourism units and attracting investment proposals worth around $4.1 billion.
In 2025, the state launched tourism projects valued at $147 million, covering riverfront development, heritage site restoration, convention centres, and circuit houses. District-level schemes focused on strengthening local attractions and creating employment opportunities.
Heritage Conservation and Youth Programs
Heritage and religious sites in Chitrakoot, Shahjahanpur, Moradabad, and Valmiki Nagar are being redeveloped to boost tourism appeal. Tourism fellowships, youth tourism groups, and hospitality training programs were expanded across districts to improve skills and professionalize the sector.
Officials note that these efforts not only enhanced visitor experiences but also supported heritage conservation and job creation across the state.
Tourism as a Key Economic Driver
Over the two years following the 2022 tourism policy, UP received hospitality investment proposals worth $12.2 billion. The government views tourism as a crucial sector to help the state achieve a $1 trillion economy by 2029, highlighting its potential for sustainable growth and development.
