Bareilly: After the transformative development of Ayodhya, Kashi, and Mathura, the Uttar Pradesh Government has now intensified efforts to develop Bareilly’s spiritually significant Nath tradition sites through the ambitious “Nath Corridor” project. Under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the state government is undertaking integrated tourism and infrastructure development of 10 major religious and spiritual destinations linked to the Nath tradition at an estimated cost exceeding ₹60 crore.
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said the initiative aims to give religious tourism in Uttar Pradesh a distinct identity by developing ancient Shiva temples and Nath tradition sites in a structured manner while preserving their spiritual and historical significance. He stated that the government’s “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” vision is being implemented by combining heritage conservation with modern tourism facilities.
Among the key projects, the 5,000-year-old Shri Dhopeshwar Nath Temple in Sadar Cantonment is being developed at a cost of ₹7.74 crore. The Dwapar-era Vankhandi Nath Temple in Jogi Nawada is undergoing tourism development worth ₹5.82 crore, while Trivati Nath Temple and Tapeshwar Nath Temple are being upgraded with investments of ₹6.55 crore and ₹8.36 crore respectively.
The nearly 930-year-old Alakh Nath Temple is also being redeveloped with an allocation of ₹11.67 crore. The project includes construction of a grand entrance gate, Vedic library, improved pilgrim amenities, and beautification works. Similarly, the Shri Pashupatinath Temple located on Pilibhit Bypass — inspired by Nepal’s famous Pashupatinath shrine — is being developed at a cost of over ₹2.98 crore.
The state government will also spend ₹9.71 crore on tourism development works at Shri Tulsi Math, another important site under the Nath Corridor project. Development works are also underway at Shri Madhinath Temple. In addition, focus wall construction is being carried out at 19 important locations across Bareilly at a cost of ₹4.97 crore to enhance the city’s spiritual and cultural appeal.
Special arrangements are also being made for Kanwar pilgrims visiting Bareilly during the holy month of Shravan. Infrastructure projects worth more than ₹4 crore are being implemented to improve facilities for devotees and ensure smoother pilgrimage movement across the city.
The Nath Corridor projects include the construction of yatri rest houses, satsang sheds, Vedic libraries, parikrama paths, prasad and florist shops, toilet blocks, LED lighting, landscaping, beautification works, and dedicated pilgrim shelters. The projects aim to provide a holistic spiritual and tourism experience for visitors.
Officials said the corridor is not merely a tourism project but an effort to revive and celebrate the spiritual heritage of Lord Shiva and the Nath tradition. Temples such as Dhopeshwar Nath, linked with the penance of Sage Dhrum; Vankhandi Nath, associated with Dwapar-era beliefs; Tapeshwar Nath, connected with ancient sages; and Alakh Nath, known as the meditation site of Alakhia Baba, continue to attract devotees because of their deep-rooted mythological and spiritual significance.
Jaiveer Singh noted that Uttar Pradesh has emerged as India’s leading state in domestic tourism due to improved infrastructure, connectivity, and enhanced tourism facilities. He said that in 2025, the state recorded over 156 crore tourist visits, while Bareilly alone welcomed more than 1.09 crore pilgrims and tourists, highlighting the district’s growing tourism potential. He added that the Nath Corridor would further strengthen Uttar Pradesh’s position as a major destination for religious and spiritual tourism.
