UP Tourism to revamp of 35 Border Villages
Representative image
Maharajganj, Siddharthnagar, Shravasti, Balrampur, Bahraich, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Pilibhit have selected for the ‘Village Tourism’ project.
In a step toward putting border villages of Uttar Pradesh on the tourism map, the department of Tourism, Uttar Pradesh will develop 35 villages across seven border districts as designated “Tourist Villages.”
Uttar Pradesh Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh announced that villages in Maharajganj, Siddharthnagar, Shravasti, Balrampur, Bahraich, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Pilibhit have been selected for the project. Each of these villages will feature 10 homestay units, offering tourists the opportunity to experience rural life firsthand and immerse themselves in local customs.
Among the chosen villages include Dulhasumali, Bajha, Khunuwan, Kotia, and Gharuar in Siddharthnagar; Imlia Kodar, Chandanpur, Narihwa, Pahadapur, and Belbhariya in Balrampur; Bankati Chidiya, Purab Majra Himmantnagar, Pipraula, Puraena, and Singhia in Lakhimpur Kheri; Badria, Amba Karikot, Fakirpuri, and Vishunapur in Bahraich; Lalpur Kusmahwa, Motipur Kala, Katkuiyan, Medhakia, and Belhari in Shravasti; Naujalha, Nakataha, Gabhiya Saharai, Dhakiya Ta. Maharajpur, and Mataiya Lalpur in Pilibhit; and Bhedihari, Ithia, Giriya, Tareni, and Chandithan in Maharajganj.
The tourism minister, Singh, stated, “The local youth will receive storytelling training to present their village legends, histories, and folklore in engaging way to visitors. Women part of the self-help groups will be trained to prepare traditional dishes so that tourists can savour authentic village flavours. Additionally, products made by the Tharu tribal community will be promoted in local markets and through online platforms to ensure wider recognition and increased income for local artisans.”
Singh also emphasised, “The “Village Tourism” initiative is not just about tourism, it is a significant stride toward self-reliance, women’s empowerment, and cultural preservation. The project aims to bring development to the state’s border regions while breathing new life into their heritage.”