Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has taken a significant step towards preserving the state’s glorious past by announcing the adaptive reuse of 11 additional heritage properties across the state. These include historic forts, palaces, and havelis that will now be restored and repurposed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Tenders for private participation were officially released recently.
Speaking on the occasion, Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said the initiative aims not only to conserve heritage structures but also to promote the local culture, cuisine, and handicrafts of Uttar Pradesh. “Each site will be paired with a nearby village, which will be adopted for holistic development,” he added.
The effort is expected to generate employment opportunities for local residents and contribute significantly to the state’s economy. “These projects will empower local artisans, chefs, and cultural custodians, giving them a global platform,” the minister said.
Under the state’s heritage tourism strategy, several historic sites will be transformed into heritage hotels, public museums, conference and event centers, and cultural hubs—making them relevant to contemporary needs while retaining their original charm. The plan aligns with the government’s broader goal of sustainable tourism development through adaptive reuse.
Among the key properties included in this phase is Tehroli Fort in Jhansi, a site deeply tied to the 1857 War of Independence. Also on the list is Mastani Mahal in Mahoba, known for its unique architecture and historical connection to Mastani, wife of Peshwa Baji Rao I. The Senapati Mahal in Kulphad, the Balabehata Fort in Lalitpur, and Ranggarh Fort in Banda—each reflecting the grandeur of Bundelkhand’s past—are part of the project.
Other notable mentions include the Wazirganj Baradari in Gonda, a 12-doored Mughal-era pavilion; Alambagh Bhawan in Lucknow, built by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah showcasing a blend of Mughal and colonial architecture; and Gulistan-e-Iram and Darshan Vilas, renowned for their elegant gardens and intricate designs.
In the initial phase of the project, the tourism department has already partnered with reputed private players. These include:
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Neemrana Hotels Pvt. Ltd. for Baruasagar Fort in Jhansi,
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Golden Triangle Fort and Palace Pvt. Ltd. for Chunar Fort in Mirzapur,
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Restoration agreements for Lucknow’s Chhatar Manzil and Kothi Roshan-ud-Daula, and
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Redwood Holding and Realty Services Pvt. Ltd. (Bengaluru) for the development of Baradari near Shukla Talab in Kanpur Dehat.
Minister Jaiveer Singh reiterated that Uttar Pradesh is rich in historical heritage and has immense potential for heritage tourism. He said that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Bundelkhand region’s monuments will be revived with their original magnificence intact.
“These efforts will not only preserve our cultural legacy but also strengthen Uttar Pradesh’s economy by turning heritage into a viable and sustainable revenue stream,” Singh concluded.
