Uttar Pradesh has launched an ambitious tourism development scheme for 2025-26, aiming to double tourist arrivals to 1.3 billion. With 100,000 new hotel rooms and enhanced infrastructure, the state targets a $1 trillion economy. Key initiatives include sustainable tourism, cultural heritage promotion, and improved connectivity to attract domestic and international visitors.
Uttar Pradesh Unveils Bold Tourism Development Plan for 2025
Uttar Pradesh, already India’s leading domestic tourism destination with 65 crore visitors in 2024-25, is set to transform its tourism landscape with a new development scheme launched for 2025-26. The state government, under the leadership of Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh, is targeting an ambitious doubling of tourist arrivals to 1.3 billion, signaling a significant boost to the state’s tourism economy. This comes as part of a broader vision to propel Uttar Pradesh toward a $1 trillion economy, with tourism as a key driver.
The scheme focuses on expanding infrastructure to accommodate the growing influx of travelers. Approximately 100,000 new hotel rooms have been added to the state’s existing inventory, addressing the rising demand for quality accommodations. Hotel stays currently account for 40.81% of tourist accommodations, while inter-district travel dominates tourism activity at 80.31%. The state is also enhancing connectivity through projects like the Vande Bharat Express, linking Jammu’s Katra to Srinagar, which is expected to revive tourism in regions previously affected by disruptions.
Cultural heritage remains a cornerstone of Uttar Pradesh’s appeal. Iconic attractions such as the Taj Mahal in Agra, the sacred ghats of Varanasi, and the historic charm of Lucknow continue to draw millions. The scheme emphasizes promoting these sites alongside lesser-known destinations to create a diverse tourism ecosystem. Sustainability is another focus, with initiatives like community-based eco-tourism and technology integration to ensure long-term growth without ecological strain.
The state is also leveraging flagship central government schemes like Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and PRASAD to revitalize local economies. These efforts aim to enhance visitor experiences through modern amenities, digital ticketing, and guided tours. Uttar Pradesh’s rise to the 39th position on the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Development Index, up from 54th, reflects the success of these initiatives. The state recorded the highest number of domestic tourists from Andhra Pradesh, followed by Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, with Thailand leading international arrivals in 2024-25.
To support this growth, the government is investing in innovative technologies and infrastructure upgrades. The scheme includes plans to develop themed tourism circuits, such as spiritual and adventure trails, to cater to evolving traveler preferences. For instance, adventure tourism is gaining traction, with discussions at the recent Adventure Tourism Meet 2025 in Dehradun highlighting Uttar Pradesh’s potential to tap into this segment alongside neighboring Uttarakhand. The state’s tourism officials are also collaborating with private stakeholders to ensure seamless implementation of these projects.
The tourism department, led by Principal Secretary Mukesh Kumar Meshram and other key officials, is working to position Uttar Pradesh as a global tourism hub. With international tourist arrivals projected to reach 20 million in the current fiscal year across India, Uttar Pradesh aims to capture a significant share by promoting its diverse offerings, from spiritual retreats to historical landmarks. The state’s strategic investments in infrastructure, sustainability, and connectivity are poised to make it a top destination for both domestic and international travelers in 2025 and beyond.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports and publicly available data from sources such as Hindustan Times, Business Standard, The Hindu, and Travel And Tour World. All information is accurate as of July 2, 2025, and reflects the latest developments in Uttar Pradesh’s tourism sector. Readers are advised to verify details with official government announcements.