Uttar Pradesh Showcases Sacred Sites, Unique Perfume Traditions, and Cultural Festivals at IFTM Top Resa 2025 in Paris: What Travelers Need to Know Now

Published on September 22, 2025

Uttar Pradesh, a state deeply entrenched in India’s spiritual and cultural heritage, will be showcasing its exceptional offerings at the International & French Travel Market (IFTM) Top Resa 2025. From the sacred land of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna to the historical grandeur of the Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh’s participation in this prestigious event marks a significant step toward positioning the state as a leading global tourism destination. Through an engaging stall at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, Uttar Pradesh will share its profound spiritual, cultural, and experiential tourism options with European travelers. Visitors will discover not only sacred journeys to iconic temples and ghats but also unique traditions such as the age-old perfume-making art of Kannauj.

Uttar Pradesh’s stall at IFTM Top Resa 2025 will focus on:

• Sacred and Spiritual Journeys: Discover Ayodhya, Mathura, Vrindavan, Varanasi, and the sacred Jyotirlinga Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Visitors will also learn about the Buddhist Circuit, which traces the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.
• Architectural Marvels: The iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other architectural wonders of the state, including the grandeur of Lucknow and Prayagraj.
• Kannauj Perfume Tourism: The centuries-old tradition of perfume-making in Kannauj, where the deg-bhapka distillation technique continues to thrive, will be showcased to introduce visitors to this unique aspect of Uttar Pradesh’s cultural heritage.
• Cultural Festivals and Experiences: Vibrant festivals like Dev Deepawali, Mahakumbh, Taj Mahotsav, and Rangotsav that celebrate the state’s living traditions.

Uttar Pradesh’s tourism minister, Shri Jaiveer Singh, highlighted that the state’s participation at IFTM Top Resa 2025 aligns with the state’s vision to enhance its profile on the global tourism map. This opportunity allows Uttar Pradesh to not only share its cultural and spiritual wealth with Europe but also strengthen tourism exchanges and invite more international travelers to explore this enchanting region.

Uttar Pradesh – A Land of Spiritual Wonders and Cultural Riches

Uttar Pradesh is known as the land of India’s most sacred and significant religious sites. The state holds immense spiritual significance, being the birthplace of Lord Rama in Ayodhya and Lord Krishna in Mathura. It is home to the sacred confluence of rivers in Prayagraj, the site of the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Uttar Pradesh’s deep connection to India’s spiritual legacy is also evident in Varanasi, the ancient city of Lord Shiva, where the ghats of the Ganges River offer a spiritual experience unlike any other.

The state’s diverse tourism landscape includes not just spiritual experiences but also monumental architectural masterpieces like the Taj Mahal. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this symbol of eternal love attracts millions of visitors each year. The state also houses the remarkable Buddhist Circuit, which includes important sites such as Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.

Uttar Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage is seen in its arts, crafts, and festivals. The state is a thriving hub for traditional arts, music, dance, and crafts, making it a unique destination for those looking to experience India’s diverse culture. Its festivals, including Dev Deepawali and Mahakumbh, attract international travelers seeking to witness the grandeur of these celebrations.

Exploring the Sacred Circuit: A Spiritual Journey Across Uttar Pradesh

The spiritual significance of Uttar Pradesh is unmatched in India. Pilgrims and travelers alike are drawn to the state’s sacred cities, including the iconic Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. This revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a focal point for devotees, especially during religious festivals like Maha Shivaratri. The ghats of Varanasi, where rituals and prayers are offered to the river Ganges, hold deep spiritual significance for Hindus worldwide.

Uttar Pradesh also invites visitors to explore Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama and a city of immense religious importance. Here, visitors can experience the aura of divinity that surrounds the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. Mathura and Vrindavan, the cities associated with Lord Krishna’s childhood, also play a key role in Uttar Pradesh’s spiritual tourism offering. The state’s sacred tourism circuit continues with Prayagraj, known for the Kumbh Mela, where millions of pilgrims gather to take a holy dip in the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers.

The Buddhist Circuit, another highlight of Uttar Pradesh’s tourism offerings, allows visitors to trace the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. Key sites like Lumbini, where Buddha was born, Sarnath, where he gave his first sermon, and Kushinagar, where he attained Nirvana, form an essential part of this transformative spiritual journey.

Architectural Marvels and Heritage Sites

Beyond spirituality, Uttar Pradesh is home to some of India’s most magnificent architectural landmarks. The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, remains the highlight of the state’s heritage tourism offerings. Known for its stunning Mughal architecture and grand marble façade, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an essential destination for travelers seeking to explore India’s rich architectural history.

In addition to the Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh boasts numerous historical sites that reflect the grandeur of India’s past. The city of Lucknow, with its blend of Mughal and Awadhi architectural styles, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara, along with the Rumi Darwaza, are prime examples of the city’s cultural richness.

Prayagraj, another city of historical importance, is known for its heritage buildings and colonial-era architecture. The city’s role as a significant pilgrimage destination during the Kumbh Mela further underscores its importance in India’s cultural and spiritual landscape.

Kannauj: The Perfume Capital of India

One of the unique highlights of Uttar Pradesh’s tourism offerings is the region of Kannauj, often referred to as the perfume capital of India. This town is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of fragrance-making using the deg-bhapka distillation technique. Visitors to Kannauj can explore the artisanal process behind creating natural, alcohol-free perfumes, which have been passed down through generations. This tradition not only contributes to the state’s cultural heritage but also offers a distinctive experience for travelers interested in the art of perfumery.

The perfume industry in Kannauj is deeply tied to the history and culture of Uttar Pradesh. The region has long been known for its exquisite and fragrant products, which were favored by Mughal emperors and continue to be produced with the same traditional methods today. This aspect of Uttar Pradesh’s tourism is a fascinating exploration of India’s living traditions and craftsmanship.

Vibrant Festivals and Cultural Celebrations

Uttar Pradesh is home to some of India’s most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals. The state’s cultural calendar is filled with events that celebrate its rich traditions, from religious festivals to grand cultural gatherings.

• Dev Deepawali: Celebrated in Varanasi, Dev Deepawali is a spectacular festival where thousands of oil lamps light up the ghats of the Ganges River. The sight is nothing short of magical, offering visitors an unforgettable experience of India’s spiritual and cultural grandeur.
• Mahakumbh: Held every twelve years in Prayagraj, the Mahakumbh is the largest religious gathering in the world. Pilgrims from all over the world converge to take part in this sacred event, which offers visitors a rare glimpse into India’s ancient spiritual practices.
• Taj Mahotsav: Held annually in Agra, the Taj Mahotsav is a cultural festival that celebrates the arts, crafts, and heritage of Uttar Pradesh. Visitors can experience traditional music, dance, and crafts while also exploring the historical significance of the Taj Mahal.
• Rangotsav: A festival that celebrates the arrival of spring, Rangotsav is an important cultural event that brings together the rich traditions of Uttar Pradesh’s folk music, dance, and crafts.

These festivals provide an immersive experience for travelers, offering them the opportunity to witness India’s living traditions in all their splendor.

Accessibility and Connectivity

Uttar Pradesh is well-connected to international and domestic destinations, making it an accessible location for global travelers. The state is served by major airports in Lucknow and Varanasi, providing easy access to key tourist destinations. Additionally, the state’s extensive rail and road networks ensure seamless connectivity to other parts of India.

For international tourists, Uttar Pradesh’s proximity to Delhi, with its international airport, further enhances its appeal as a convenient destination. Whether traveling for spiritual, cultural, or historical exploration, Uttar Pradesh’s accessibility ensures that it remains a top choice for global travelers.

Conclusion: A Must-Visit Destination

Uttar Pradesh is a treasure trove of spiritual, cultural, and historical experiences that are unmatched in India. With its rich tapestry of sacred sites, architectural marvels, and living traditions, the state offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave a lasting impact on every traveler. As Uttar Pradesh showcases its offerings at IFTM Top Resa 2025, it reaffirms its position as a premier global tourism destination, inviting travelers from all over the world to discover the soul of India.

Uttar Pradesh is not just a state; it is a journey through time, culture, and spirituality – a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the true essence of India.