Lucknow/Varanasi: Uttar Pradesh’s spiritual and cultural legacy is drawing unprecedented interest both within India and abroad. The holy cities of Ayodhya and Varanasi, home to the iconic Shri Ram Temple and the revitalized Kashi Vishwanath Dham respectively, have become major attractions not just for tourists but also for visiting dignitaries and government bodies. In a strong endorsement of the state’s spiritual tourism potential, a delegation from the 16th Finance Commission is set to visit these sacred sites during its upcoming tour of Uttar Pradesh.
Delegation’s Visit to Begin June 5
The Finance Commission delegation will arrive in Lucknow on June 5, where they will meet Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to discuss the state’s economic and developmental progress. Following this, the delegation will travel to Varanasi, where they will witness the famed Ganga Aarti and enjoy a serene boat ride on the holy river.
On June 6, the team is scheduled to visit the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham, the Kaal Bhairav Temple, and other spiritually significant sites such as the Sankat Mochan Temple and Sarnath, underscoring the state’s emphasis on preserving and promoting its sacred geography.
Focus on ODOP and Local Development Projects
In addition to spiritual tours, the delegation will explore key developmental initiatives under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme. A visit to Panya Silk’s ODOP site on Makbool Alam Road in Varanasi is planned. The team will also assess the infrastructure and community projects such as the Panchayati Bhawan and Amrit Sarovar in Rasoolpur, Pindra, along with urban development efforts, including the green buffer zone, Maduvadeeh flyover, Beniyabagh Miyawaki Plantation, and Ravindrapur Belwaria Park.
Spiritual Tourism Fuelling Economic and Global Recognition
Spiritual tourism in Uttar Pradesh is witnessing a remarkable surge. Cities like Ayodhya and Varanasi, steeped in centuries of religious and cultural heritage, are not only centers of faith but also powerful symbols of India’s civilizational ethos. Thanks to the concerted efforts of the Yogi government, these sites have seen significant infrastructure upgrades, improved connectivity, and enhanced visitor experiences.
According to the Tourism Department, footfall in both Ayodhya and Varanasi has multiplied in the past year, with a substantial increase in the number of foreign tourists. Experts believe this wave of interest in spiritual tourism is boosting the local economy, generating employment, and elevating India’s cultural presence on the global stage.
As spiritual and developmental narratives merge in Uttar Pradesh, the state is setting a precedent for how faith-based tourism can be a catalyst for broader socio-economic transformation.
