Uttar Pradesh Government Unveils Ambitious 'Viksit UP 2047' Roadmap to Transform State into Global Spiritual Hub
In a significant move to bolster its position as a premier destination for religious tourism, the Uttar Pradesh government has introduced the 'Viksit UP 2047' roadmap, unveiled by the state tourism department on Friday. This strategic plan aims to elevate Uttar Pradesh to the status of the world's spiritual capital, driving economic growth and enhancing global visibility for its rich cultural heritage.
Economic Targets and Infrastructure Development
The roadmap sets ambitious economic goals, targeting a substantial increase in tourism's contribution to the state's gross value added (GVA). Currently at 9.2%, the plan aims to raise this to 11% by 2029-30, 14% by 2035-36, and ultimately 16% by 2047. This aligns with the broader vision of building a six-trillion-dollar state economy. To support these targets, the strategy emphasizes scaling up infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants, and homestays, under the state's tourism policy. Notably, the number of tourist rooms per one lakh population is projected to surge fivefold, from 30 at present to 150 by 2047.
Enhancing Tourist Experience and Footfall
Efforts are underway to improve the tourist experience, with plans to double the average stay of foreign tourists from three nights to six nights by 2047. Uttar Pradesh, which already leads in domestic tourist arrivals and ranks fourth in foreign tourist footfall, aims to consolidate its position further. After recording over 130 crore visits, including the massive turnout at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, the government has set targets of 75 crore annual visits by 2029-30 and one billion by 2047.
Focus on Key Religious Destinations and Heritage Conservation
The roadmap prioritizes the development of major religious sites such as Varanasi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Mathura-Vrindavan, betting on spiritual tourism to generate jobs and boost local economies. Additionally, it emphasizes enhancing global recognition through heritage conservation. Currently, Uttar Pradesh has seven UNESCO-recognised cultural elements, with a target to increase this number to 20 by 2047, securing a prominent place on the global tourism map.
