UP Tourism Department set to hold Heritage Conclave on December 7

Lucknow : The majestic forts, regal kothis, and grand palaces of Uttar Pradesh are poised to narrate a new tale of development as the state’s tourism sector gears up for a transformative leap. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department will host a Heritage Conclave on December 7 at Hotel Taj, Lucknow.

The event will bring together around 250 prominent hoteliers, investors, real estate professionals, and consultants from across the country. They will engage with more than 60 royal dignitaries, who hold the key to some of the region’s most iconic heritage sites.

The conclave aims to forge collaborations and explore ways to unlock the economic and cultural potential of the state’s heritage properties. If successful, the initiative could position Uttar Pradesh as a premier destination for heritage tourism, attracting travelers from India and around the world.

Tourism and Culture Minister of the Yogi government, Jaiveer Singh, stated that Uttar Pradesh has emerged as one of the fastest-growing states in the tourism sector in recent years. In 2023, the state welcomed over 48 crore tourists, with destinations like Ayodhya, Kashi, Mathura, and Prayagraj being the most popular attractions.

He emphasized the immense potential for heritage tourism in Uttar Pradesh, which boasts a large number of forts, palaces, and mansions. By revitalizing and promoting these heritage sites, the state can attract even more tourists. Following the example of leading states like Rajasthan and Gujarat in heritage tourism, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department is gearing up to make similar advancements in the state.

The state plans to transform its forts, palaces, and mansions into heritage hotels, wedding destinations, wellness centers, resorts, and cultural hubs while preserving their original architecture, features, and historical essence.

Under this initiative, the Tourism Department has recently leased six properties—Chunar Fort in Mirzapur, Baruasagar Fort in Jhansi, Chattar Manzil in Lucknow, Barsana Mahal in Mathura, Shukla Talab in Kanpur Dehat, and Roshan-ud-Daula in Lucknow- on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. MOUs for these properties will be signed during the Heritage Conclave. Additionally, the department is preparing to develop other properties on a similar PPP model.

The Tourism Minister further stated that the government also aims to develop and repurpose numerous properties owned by royal families across the state. The Heritage Conclave will bring together over 60 royals and around 250 prominent hoteliers, investors, real estate developers, and consultants from across the country, fostering communication and paving the way for positive outcomes.

He said that the Heritage Conclave will be a milestone in promoting heritage tourism in Uttar Pradesh. It is expected to attract a large number of visitors from India and abroad, transforming heritage sites into major tourist destinations. This initiative will also create significant employment opportunities for local communities.