Uttar Pradesh Records 12.1 Billion Tourist Visits in First Half of 2025

Uttar Pradesh welcomed over 12.1 billion (121 crore) tourists in the first six months of 2025, officials announced during a tourism stakeholders’ workshop on November 27. The surge in footfalls is expected to accelerate the state’s ambition of becoming a $1 trillion economy.

Tourism has been identified as a key pillar in the blueprint for making the state a developed region by 2047. Senior officials outlined policy reforms, investment opportunities and infrastructure upgrades aimed at strengthening the sector.

Tourism as a Growth Driver

Chief Minister’s advisor Awanish Awasthi emphasised that tourism will play a decisive role in transforming Uttar Pradesh into a developed state. Principal Secretary (Tourism) Amrit Abhijat highlighted the sharp rise in tourist arrivals and stressed the government’s focus on eco-friendly tourism. Plans include developing major destinations such as Mathura, where a new museum is proposed.

Infrastructure and Connectivity Push

Officials noted that Uttar Pradesh’s expanding expressway network, modern airports and upgraded railway stations, including Vande Bharat corridors, have significantly improved travel convenience. These developments are expected to support longer stays and higher spending by tourists, boosting local economies.

New Circuits and Wellness Tourism

Tourism Director General Rajesh Kumar said 12 tourist circuits have been developed, with efforts underway to promote yoga and wellness tourism. State Transformation Commission CEO Manoj Kumar Singh called for strengthening inbound tourism and adopting cleanliness measures around key sites. He also suggested promoting wellness tourism on the lines of Kerala.

Eco-Tourism and Cultural Initiatives

Eco-tourism Director Pushp Kumar outlined projects in wetland restoration, wildlife corridors and nature-based tourism, identifying Dudhwa, Pilibhit and Katarniaghat as model sites. The Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation is redesigning tour packages to encourage cultural activities and longer stays. Officials also discussed promoting lesser-known attractions such as the fossil park in Sonbhadra through curated three-day packages.

Read More: PM Modi Urges States to Build Global-Level Tourist Spots.

Conclusion

The record tourist footfalls in the first half of 2025 underscore Uttar Pradesh’s growing prominence as a travel destination. With infrastructure upgrades, eco-tourism initiatives and cultural circuits, the state aims to position tourism as a cornerstone of its economic transformation.

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