UP Tourism’s ‘Homestay’ scheme enhances Mahakumbh experience, boosts the local economy

Prayagraj : The Homestay scheme launched by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has yielded impressive results, providing a home-like environment and meals to devotees visiting the Prayagraj Mahakumbh. This initiative offered an alternative source of income to the locals and expanded accommodation options for tourists.

Initially, the administration had estimated that over 40 crore devotees would attend the Mahakumbh. However, the turnout far exceeded expectations, with more than 66 crore devotees taking a holy dip at the sacred Triveni during the 45-day event. As hotels, guest houses, and tent city in the Kumbh area struggled to accommodate the overwhelming number of pilgrims, the newly introduced homestay option by the tourism department proved to be a timely and effective solution.

According to Aparajita Singh, Regional Tourism Officer of Prayagraj, the homestay scheme provided tourists and devotees with a warm and homely experience. 112 houses in the city were converted into homestays, with areas like Jhunsi and Daraganj—located close to the Mahakumbh site—attracting the most interest.

The Yogi government had made comprehensive arrangements for their stay in anticipation of the massive influx of devotees. Homestay facilities became a practical and affordable alternative for those unable to afford hotels or premium tent cities. Locals transformed their homes into homestays, earning additional income in the process.

Ajay Kumar Ojha, who converted five rooms of his house on Hewett Road into a homestay, reported that all his rooms were booked throughout the 45-day Mahakumbh, except for a few days. He provided lodging to 145 visitors.

Similarly, Akhand Pratap Singh of Jhunsi turned his four-room flat into a homestay and hosted 120 families, receiving more inquiries than he could accommodate.

Over 35,000 visitors benefited from the homestay service during the Mahakumbh, creating a significant source of additional income for the city’s residents.