As part of broader efforts to develop the tourism potential of the state, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has sanctioned ₹9 crore funding to restore important religious and cultural sites in Lucknow. Famous temples and the riverfront areas on the Gomti River, considered the heart of the city, will be enhanced as part of this project which received approval in August 2025. This is likely to enhance religious tourism in Lucknow and enrich the experience for domestic and overseas tourists visiting some of the city’s cherished spiritual sites.

Key Projects Under the ₹9 Crore Plan

The development scheme comprises ten projects which enhances the religious and cultural tourism archetypes in Lucknow. The government of Uttar Pradesh has set aside some funds for the restoration and repairs of some important temples and also for the development of the riverfronts to facilitate more pilgrims and tourists. Some of the important projects are:

• Sheetla Mata Temple, Kakori: ₹1 crore has been set aside for restoration work on the Goddess Sheetla temple which is an important temple for the local devotees.
• Koneshwar Mahadev Temple, Chowk: Another ₹1 crore has been allocated for the servicing of the ancient Shiva temple which is visited by a large number of people paying their respects to Lord Shiva.
• Shiv Temple, Karheta (Ambedkar Nagar Ward):₹1 crore has been assigned for the restauration of the historic temple which is a known for being a spiritually appealing tourist site.
• Kalika Devi Temple, Amlauli Village: The Kalika Devi temple which is popularly worshipped by many people will be provided with ₹1 crore to be used towards the renovation and modernization works to better serve the devotees.
• Shri Hanuman Temple, Athnaru (Sukhmadatt Nagar): The Shri Hanuman Temple, which is a major worship place for many people will also have ₹1 crore allocated for its restoration.
• Shri Mahadev Jalsai Nath Temple: This temple will receive ₹1 crore earmarked for the enhancement of its development which will add to the spiritual services provided in the city.
• Shri Jwala Mata Temple, Barigwan: ₹50 lakh is to be provided for the enhancement works to the important temple of Goddess Jwala Mata which will improve the religious tourism in the area.
• Sanjhiya Ghat, Gomti River: ₹1 crore will be spent on the development of Sanjhiya Ghat on the Gomti River, an area visited by people for spiritual and ceremonial activities and offering some of the services.
• Shri Ram Janki Temple: The Shri Ram Janki Temple is receiving ₹1 crore for further development on the infrastructure. The shrine is uniquely positioned in such a way that shrines of both Rama and Janki can be visited.
• Ghatghata Baba Devsthan, Salehnagar Village: ₹50 lakh has been allocated for this temple, which holds deep significance for locals.

Alongside safeguarding the spiritual legacy, these initiatives seek to improve the overall experience for visitors. Aside from reconstruction of the ancient temples, the state government also aims to implement a sustainable model that boosts tourism while honoring the site’s cultural and religious values.

Improvement Plans for Visitor Facilities

As part of these temple restorations, the Government of Uttar Pradesh allocated significantly within the ₹9 crore budget towards developing the infrstruture of these religious sites. The upgrades will help in making the sites easier and more pleasant to access for travelers. The major upgrades include:

• Lighting Installations: To illuminate the temples and surrounding areas, improving the visual appeal and providing greater accessibility during evening hours.
• Sanitation and Hygiene Facilities: Ensuring that visitors have access to clean and well-maintained restroom facilities, which is crucial for sustaining the increasing foot traffic in these religious sites.
• Drinking Water Stations: To ensure the comfort and convenience of visitors, water stations will be installed at key locations to meet the needs of the increasing number of tourists.
• Pathway Development: New pathways will be constructed around the temples and riverfronts, making it easier for visitors to access the sites.
• Tourist Information Centers: These centers will be set up to offer guidance and information about the historical and spiritual significance of the temples, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Promoting Religious Tourism as a Key Economic Driver

The ₹9 crores tourism development plan for UP is intended for religious tourism which is important for the state’s economic development. UP’s infrastructure for tourism is expected to improve which will enhance economic development for the state. Improvement of infrastructure will allow better access to important spiritual site to enhance the number of visitors and help with economic development. Improvement of sites will also assist in providing employment and preserving cultural and local businesses.

Additionally, the plan aligns with Uttar Pradesh’s ongoing commitment to preserving its rich religious and cultural heritage. The state has long been a hub for spiritual tourism, and with the proposed upgrades, it is positioning itself to become an even more attractive destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Religious Tourism in Lucknow

Uttar Pradesh’s spending on restoring and building religious tourism sites signifies an important move towards augmenting the cultural heritage of the region while improving the experience for tourists. The investment will make certain that the sacred sites continue to evoke and attract pilgrims for years to come. The initial development of Lucknow’s spiritual landmarks will further aid the growth of tourism and create sustainable and enriching experiences for visitors from different parts of the globe. The state is also investing ₹9 crores for the initial development of Lucknow’s spiritual landmarks.

The restoration of Lucknow’s temples and riverfronts are set to boost the city’s tourism greatly. They will not only capture the attention of tourists whose interests lie in spirituality but will also attract culture enthusiasts. This is one of the few times when tourists can easily access the core of the ancient spiritual heritage in the state of Uttar Pradesh.