Uttar Pradesh Tourism Set to Boost Economy with Record Tourist Arrivals and Infrastructure Growth by 2028

Published on July 23, 2025

Tourist industry The tourist trade is growing at a fast rate in Uttar Pradesh, serving as a major source of revenue for the state. By 2028, the state anticipates receiving 80 crore additional tourists for a jaw dropping Rs 70,000 crore revenue contribution. Religious, and cultural tourism have fueled the spike in footfall, with places like Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura and Prayagraj overtaking as primary attractions. This development is complemented probably by the state’s focus on infrastructure makeover and connectivity-upgrade, to make tourists feel at home when they visit these spiritual centres.

The state is gradually evolving into a major Indian and international tourist destination and its scope is broadening from religious destinations to encompass other products, he said. Strategic traffic infrastructure, an extensive expressway and airport system and the improvement of local tourism circuits are paving the way for a sustainable tourism future. The tourism industry in UP will be a major factor in contributing to the economic growth of the region and the country by 2028, with ease of access, infrastructure and safety well in place.

The two sectors in Uttar Pradesh that are paying rich dividends are hospitality sector and transportation sector as these and local commerce are driven by tourism in the state. With millions of tourists visiting the state’s holy cities, Uttar Pradesh plans to leverage the great opportunity to contribute to the regional and national economy. It is India’s playground and by the end of the decade, the state will emerge as one of the leading global tourism destinations in the country attracting domestic as well as overseas tourists.

Tourism in Uttar Pradesh has witnessed exceptional growth in recent years, particularly in religious and cultural tourism. The state has seen an impressive increase in tourist footfall, with significant contributions from both domestic and international visitors. In 2023, Uttar Pradesh welcomed an estimated 48 crore tourists, with a substantial number visiting renowned cities like Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura, and Prayagraj. These spiritual centers have become magnets for pilgrims, domestic tourists, and international travelers seeking cultural immersion.

Notably, the Prayagraj Mahakumbh in 2025 attracted a record number of visitors, bringing in over 66 crore pilgrims. This massive influx highlights Uttar Pradesh’s reputation as a top destination for religious tourism. However, even excluding the Mahakumbh, the state has seen a remarkable rise in tourist arrivals. The state government’s ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity, improve infrastructure, and promote regional tourism have significantly contributed to this growth.

As the state continues to develop, projections suggest that by 2028, total tourist arrivals in Uttar Pradesh will reach 80 crore. This growth is largely attributed to the expanding infrastructure, the development of new tourism circuits, and the promotion of lesser-known destinations. As a result, the state is now positioning itself as a global tourism powerhouse, attracting visitors from across the globe who are drawn to its rich cultural heritage and spiritual offerings.

Infrastructure Development: Enhancing Connectivity to Religious Sites

To further boost tourism, Uttar Pradesh’s government has been focusing on infrastructure development, particularly in transportation and connectivity. This includes the expansion of expressways, improvements to airports, and the construction of new roads that will facilitate easier access to major tourist destinations.

The state’s Purvanchal Expressway is one of the key infrastructure projects aimed at improving accessibility to regions like Chandauli and Sonbhadra, which are being promoted as new tourism destinations. These areas are being touted as the “Switzerland of Uttar Pradesh” due to their scenic beauty and fossil-rich landscapes. The Ganga Expressway, another major project, is set to connect various tourist hubs, including Mirzapur, Bhadohi, and Ghazipur, enhancing both regional tourism and local economic development.

Additionally, the government is planning the construction of a greenfield expressway that will connect Kashi (Varanasi) to Kolkata, passing through important religious and cultural centers like Chandauli. This will further improve accessibility and provide a smoother travel experience for tourists visiting the state’s top destinations.

Beyond roads, Uttar Pradesh is investing in airport expansion and the creation of tourist-friendly infrastructure to ensure a seamless experience for visitors. Dedicated pilgrimage development councils have been set up to ensure the systematic planning and monitoring of facilities at major religious sites. This will ensure that the needs of visitors are met in terms of safety, comfort, and convenience, enhancing the overall tourism experience.

The Rise of Regional Tourism: Highlighting Lesser-Known Destinations

As part of its comprehensive tourism strategy, Uttar Pradesh is focusing on the development of regional tourism circuits that will encourage travelers to explore beyond the well-known destinations. The state has identified Naimisharanya, Gorakhpur, and Vindhyachal (Mirzapur) as key emerging destinations. These cities, rich in history, culture, and religious significance, are being developed into tourist hubs with the potential to attract both domestic and international visitors.

Additionally, the state is focusing on the development of spiritual corridors, which will connect various religious and cultural sites in a network, enabling tourists to explore the diversity of Uttar Pradesh’s heritage. This initiative is expected to boost tourism in regions that have not been as widely recognized, thus contributing to the balanced growth of the tourism sector.

Economic Impact of Tourism: Contributing to State’s Growth

The tourism sector in Uttar Pradesh is expected to contribute significantly to the state’s economy in the coming years. The sector’s growth will benefit various allied industries, such as hospitality, transportation, and local businesses. With an estimated economic contribution of Rs 70,000 crore by 2028, tourism will become one of the most important drivers of Uttar Pradesh’s economic growth.

In 2016-17, tourism contributed around Rs 11,000 crore to the state’s economy. This figure is expected to rise dramatically, with key events like the Mahakumbh and the growth of religious tourism playing a crucial role in boosting local economies. The influx of tourists also helps create employment opportunities, with local businesses benefiting from the growing demand for services such as hotels, transportation, and restaurants.

Additionally, the state is focusing on creating job opportunities for local communities by training individuals in the tourism and hospitality sectors. This will help ensure that the benefits of tourism are distributed equitably across the state, fostering inclusive economic growth.

The Future of Uttar Pradesh Tourism: A Global Hub in the Making

Uttar Pradesh is set to become a global tourism hub by 2028, thanks to its rich cultural heritage, religious significance, and ongoing infrastructure developments. With a strong focus on sustainability, regional tourism, and quality visitor experiences, the state is positioning itself as a leading destination for both domestic and international travelers.

The expansion of infrastructure, the promotion of lesser-known destinations, and the development of spiritual corridors are all part of Uttar Pradesh’s strategy to enhance its tourism offerings. By 2028, Uttar Pradesh will not only be a top religious destination but also a vibrant cultural and heritage tourism hub. As the state continues to grow, its tourism sector is poised to become a cornerstone of its economic development, driving employment, revenue, and regional prosperity.

Uttar Pradesh’s tourism industry is entering a new phase of growth, with ambitious plans for infrastructure, connectivity, and regional development. As the state works toward achieving its tourism goals by 2028, it is set to become one of India’s most sought-after destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. With a focus on sustainable growth and quality experiences, Uttar Pradesh is on track to transform its tourism sector into a global leader.