LUCKNOW — Under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Uttar Pradesh government is taking a major step to connect its tourism sector with the global market. The state’s tourism department is preparing to participate in the “International and French Travel Market (IFTM) Top Resa 2025” in Paris from September 23 to 25. This event will provide a significant platform for Uttar Pradesh to showcase its tourism potential to professionals, tour operators, and investors from over 120 countries.
This initiative is a strategic effort to position Uttar Pradesh as a global spiritual and cultural hub, attracting a greater number of foreign tourists and investors, particularly from Europe.
Showcasing Culture and Heritage
The Uttar Pradesh tourism department is planning an impressive display at its stall. The setup will highlight the state’s diverse culture with local products, handicrafts, and artistic works, including the famous One District One Product (ODOP) goods. The stall will feature creative designs inspired by temple architecture to attract visitors.
With approximately 300,000 French tourists visiting India annually and 700,000 Indian tourists traveling to France, the event presents a golden opportunity to strengthen tourism ties between the two regions. The department aims to attract French and European tourists to Uttar Pradesh’s spiritual and cultural sites, such as Varanasi, Ayodhya, and the Buddhist Circuit.
Focus on Heritage and Wellness Tourism
Special emphasis will be placed on promoting Uttar Pradesh’s heritage, wellness, and rural tourism. The state will highlight opportunities like Ayurveda retreats, yoga centers, and rural homestays. The event will also be used to inform investors about the benefits of the state’s tourism policy, including subsidies, land allocation, and simplified approval processes for developing dilapidated forts, palaces, and spiritual sites.
The state’s participation is expected to attract foreign investment, particularly in heritage sites and eco-tourism projects. Live cultural performances, including traditional dances like Mayur Nritya and Kathak, will provide a glimpse into the state’s vibrant traditions. Additionally, digital tools like AR-based selfie panels and touchscreens will allow European investors to take a virtual tour of the state’s scenic locations.
A Message of Sustainability
The Uttar Pradesh tourism department’s presence at the event will also carry a strong message of environmental protection and sustainable tourism. The stall is being designed using sustainable materials, with a strict policy against the use of plastic or non-biodegradable items. This aligns with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s focus on environmental conservation.
The IFTM Top Resa is a leading international travel trade show and the only B2B tourism event in France. It brings together over 30,000 professionals and features more than 170 destinations. Uttar Pradesh’s participation is seen as a crucial step towards establishing the state as a premier destination in the European market, fostering long-term growth in both tourism and investment.
