Union Budget 2026 Proposes Dholavira Transformation into Experiential Heritage Destination
Imagine walking along the ancient streets of a 5,000-year-old city, where every stone tells the story of a civilisation that flourished amidst the harsh landscapes of Kutch. Soon, visitors to Dholavira, one of the most important urban centres of the Indus Valley (Harappan) civilisation and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will be able to do just that, thanks to a major initiative announced in the Union Budget 2026-27.
Budget Initiative for Archaeological Sites
The Union budget has proposed transforming Dholavira into a vibrant, experiential destination, with curated walkways, interactive storytelling, and technology-driven interpretation centres that allow tourists to explore the ingenuity and daily life of the Harappans like never before. Announcing the initiative, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said excavated landscapes would be opened to the public with guided pathways, conservation labs, and trained guides, ensuring that history comes alive for visitors while supporting preservation efforts.
Dholavira, located on Bet Island in Kutch, is one of 15 archaeological sites across India earmarked for such development, aimed at blending culture, education and tourism. Excavations at Dholavira have revealed how a well-planned urban civilisation thrived in one of the harshest geographical conditions, making it a prime candidate for enhanced visitor experiences.
Improved Connectivity and Tourism Boost
Improved connectivity has already led to a steady rise in tourist footfall at Dholavira. A highlight is the newly built 278km national highway connecting Ghaduli to Santalpur, with a 30km stretch passing through the White Desert. Dubbed the "road to heaven," it has become a major attraction for tourists and photographers on their way to Dholavira.
Tourism has also been boosted by the Rann Utsav in nearby Dhordo, with around 3 lakh visitors travelling to Dholavira during the current season, which runs from Diwali until the end of February. This surge in interest underscores the potential for further development at the site.
Infrastructure and Future Plans
Gujarat Tourism has already begun infrastructure improvements at Dholavira, including:
- Roads and lighting enhancements
- Footpaths and other basic amenities
- Plans for a heritage village near the site
The proposed heritage village is set to feature theme-based gardens, shopping areas, historical tableaux, restaurants, and other attractions aimed at enhancing the visitor experience. These efforts align with the budget's vision to create immersive cultural destinations.
Local Perspectives and Challenges
Jilubha Sodha, sarpanch of Dholavira village, welcomed the government's plans but urged faster implementation. "We are happy the government is focusing on the heritage site and village, but progress is slow due to various obstacles. A special purpose vehicle should be formed for quicker decisions," he said. This feedback highlights the need for efficient execution to realize the full potential of the initiative.
Overall, the Union Budget 2026-27's focus on Dholavira represents a significant step towards preserving India's rich archaeological heritage while boosting tourism and local economies. By integrating technology and interactive elements, the plan aims to make ancient history accessible and engaging for modern visitors.
