- ₹400 crore allocated for religious tourism development in UP’s 2025-26 budget.
- Major allocations: ₹150 crore for Ayodhya, ₹125 crore for Mathura, ₹100 crore for Naimisharanya.
- ₹100 crore sanctioned for the Ved Vigyan Kendra to promote Vedic studies.
Uttar Pradesh is set to strengthen its position as India’s top religious tourism destination with a ₹400 crore budget allocation aimed at enhancing pilgrimage infrastructure.
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is expected to bring an unprecedented surge in pilgrims, further driving investments in infrastructure, roadways, and amenities.
UP’s Religious Tourism Push: ₹400 Crore Budget to Transform Pilgrimage Hubs
Uttar Pradesh’s latest budget signals a strategic move to elevate religious tourism, dedicating ₹150 crore to Ayodhya, which has seen a record surge in visitors following the inauguration of the Ram Temple. Other pilgrimage hotspots like Mathura and Naimisharanya are also receiving significant funds to enhance facilities and connectivity.
Beyond infrastructure, the government has committed ₹100 crore towards establishing the Ved Vigyan Kendra in Naimisharanya, promoting Vedic education and research. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of preserving and promoting India’s rich spiritual heritage through academic and cultural means.
The state is also prioritizing convenience for travelers by investing ₹100 crore in wayside amenities along major highways, ensuring improved access to pilgrimage sites. The plan reflects Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to making religious tourism a driving force for economic growth and cultural revival.
Additionally, the Mathura-Vrindavan corridor is set to benefit from land acquisition and temple development projects worth ₹150 crore, reinforcing the state’s efforts to position itself as a global spiritual tourism hub. The funds will not only enhance visitor experiences but also create employment opportunities in the tourism sector.
Uttar Pradesh’s ambitious religious tourism budget aims to balance heritage conservation with modern infrastructure, making it a premier destination for spiritual travelers worldwide.
“A nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people.” – Mahatma Gandhi