As per the latest development, Uttar Pradesh is all set to boost its tourism sector. It will be converting historic forts and palaces into opulent heritage hotels. This endeavour aims to offer tourists unique accommodation options while preserving the state’s rich heritage. If reports are to go by, leading hospitality brands, such as Leela Hotels, Indian Hotels Company (Taj Group), Neemrana Group, Mahindra Hotels and Resorts, Oberoi Hotels, Hyatt Regency, and Lalit Hotels have shown interest in developing and managing these heritage properties.
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Mukesh Kumar Mesharam, Principal Secretary of the Department of Tourism and Culture in Uttar Pradesh, highlighted the state’s tourism’s recent growth, witnessing a significant increase in both domestic and inbound tourism. To cater to tourists seeking experiential tourism, infrastructure and facilities are being developed to accommodate visitors from all economic segments. For travellers seeking a luxurious and unparalleled experience, discussions with several prominent hotel groups have begun, expressing strong interest in revitalising palaces and havelis in alignment with the new tourism policy on a public-private partnership (PPP) basis.
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The state’s tourism policy stipulates a minimum investment ranging from INR 30 crores to INR 100 crores for the transformation of heritage properties into hotels. Depending on the level of investment, heritage buildings will be categorised, and investors will receive various incentives and concessions.
Reports add that the first phase of transformation targets several iconic sites, including Chunar Fort in Mirzapur, Barua Sagar Fort in Jhansi, Jal Mahal in Barsana, Chattar Manzil and Kothi Roshan-ud-Daula, and Shukla Talab Haveli in Kanpur. Following government approval, the project will expand to include Mastani Mahal and Lake Palace in Mahoba, Tehroli in Jhansi, TalBehat Fort in Lalitpur, and more.
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Beyond forts and palaces, the program extends to other historical buildings, including those at Akbar’s hunting ground in Kirawali, Agra, and Baradari in Bithoor. In Lucknow, Kothi Gulista-e-Iram, Kothi Darshan Vilas, and Baradari in Wazirganj, Gonda, are also slated for conversion.
These heritage hotels will offer more than just lavish accommodations. Guests can anticipate wellness centres, museums, heritage restaurants, and thematic parks, creating a comprehensive cultural experience. The project is also expected to generate significant employment opportunities within the state.
