From the Ghats of Banaras to the Buddha Circuit, the UP Tourism pavilion becomes the centre of attraction

Greater Noida, Sept 2025 : At the UP International Trade Show 2025, Hall No. 7, Stall No. 12 has emerged as a special centre of attraction for visitors. As soon as visitors step inside, it feels less like a trade fair and more like stepping directly onto the soil of Uttar Pradesh. In one corner, glimpses of the Banaras Ghats come alive, while in another, the grandeur of Kashi Vishwanath Dham and the Buddha Circuit unfold. Adding to the attraction, the AR photo booth equipped with modern technology has become a hotspot for selfies and photographs among the youth.

The entrance of the stall has been designed with inspiration from Banaras’s iconic Ganga Aarti. As soon as visitors step inside, they are greeted by artists holding lit lamps and performers seated on platforms resembling the ghats of the Ganga. Through immersive VR experiences installed at the stall, visitors feel as if they are sailing on the waves of the Ganga, embarking on a spiritual journey through Banaras. Deepika Singh, present at the stall, said, ‘This Ganga Aarti-inspired atmosphere provides every visitor with a sense of spiritual peace. Our goal is to help people form an emotional connection with the tourist destinations of Uttar Pradesh.”

The Buddha Circuit Gate created at the stall has emerged as the most popular selfie point among the youth. Amit, a visitor from Ghaziabad, said, ‘Buddha’s teachings are even more relevant today. This gate is not just a photo spot but also a reminder that peace and compassion should be an integral part of our lifestyle.’ Students and researchers visiting the stall have also found it highly engaging, calling it an effective medium to showcase the significance of Uttar Pradesh’s Buddhist tourism circuit to the younger generation.”

The stall goes beyond religious and cultural attractions, offering a vibrant display of Uttar Pradesh’s handicrafts and mouthwatering delicacies. From Saharanpur’s exquisite woodwork and Kannauj’s timeless perfumes to Moradabad’s brassware, Bhadohi’s carpets, and Varanasi’s rich brocade silk sarees, the state’s heritage has been beautifully represented. Adding to the charm are Agra’s petha, Mathura’s peda, and the famous Banarasi paan, captivating every visitor with their irresistible flavours. Deepika Singh explained, ‘We have tried to bring the essence of all of Uttar Pradesh into this small space. Whether one wishes to savour the taste or take home a souvenir, everything is available here.

The biggest attraction of the UP-Tourism stall is the AR photo booth. Visitors can choose their favourite temple or tourist site and click a digital photograph with it. Immediately after the photo is taken, visitors receive a QR code that they can scan to download the photo directly to their mobile phones. Neha, a young tourist from Delhi, said, “This experience is completely new. I felt as though I was really standing in a temple in Mathura. After seeing this, my friends insisted on visiting the stall too.”
Through this stall, not only are tourist destinations being promoted, but ambitious schemes such as One District, One Product are also being highlighted. Such presentations not only attract youth and tourists but also encourage investment and tourism in the state.

Highlights at the Stall
Entrance inspired by Banaras’s Ganga Aarti and atmosphere resembling the ghats
An immersive VR experience of virtually sailing through Banaras on a boat
Buddha Circuit Gate – favorite selfie point for the youth.
A rich heritage of UP, including Kannauj perfumes, Moradabad brasswork, and Bhadohi carpets.
AR photo booth for digital pictures with temples and heritage sites, with instant download facility