Latest news with #UttarPradeshTourismDepartment
News18
4 days ago
- News18
Echoes Of Kashi: Walk Through Varanasi With UP's Audiobook That Tells Ganga's Tales In 13 Languages
Last Updated: UP Tourism is set to launch a GPS-enabled, app-integrated audiobook system that will guide your steps while covering all 84 ghats of Varanasi. the Ghats of Kashi will no longer remain silent. Instead, they will become living storytellers, speaking in 13 languages, narrating the legacy of gods and pilgrims, and inviting the world to not just see — but listen to — the soul of India. All this is set to become a reality as the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department embarks on a groundbreaking digital initiative to transform the way the world experiences Varanasi. They are going to launch a GPS-enabled, app-integrated audiobook system that will guide your steps while covering all 84 ghats of Varanasi. The idea is simple but powerful: to let visitors walk, sail, or even explore from afar while listening to professionally narrated content that brings to life the historical, religious, and cultural significance of each ghat — all through the UP Tourism mobile app. 'This digital audiobook will turn every walk along the Ganga into a spiritual and cultural journey. It's about telling Kashi's story the way it deserves to be heard — soulfully, accessibly, and globally," said Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary, Tourism. Authentic Stories in 13 Languages Officials said the GPS-enabled audiobook will be programmed in Hindi and English, narrated by professional storytellers, and further translated into 13 languages using the Government of India's AI-powered Anuvadini platform. These include 8 Indian languages — Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Gujarati, Kannada, Odia, Malayalam, Urdu — and 5 international ones — French, German, Spanish, Japanese, and Korean. 'Kashi has always belonged to the world. This app will help people in Tokyo, Toronto, or Thiruvananthapuram connect with its divine rhythm," said Dr Shashikant Pandey, Head of Political Science at Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar University. Expert-Backed, Artistically Voiced Each ghat's script — limited to 2 minutes to retain listener interest — will be created by a team of researchers and vetted by a panel comprising historians, ASI officials, and cultural experts. This ensures factual accuracy and cultural sensitivity. These scripts will then be recorded by voice-over artists chosen specifically for their clarity, tone, and connection to the spiritual ethos of Varanasi. To enhance immersion, the background audio will include subtle effects — such as temple bells, river waves, conch sounds, or distant chants — designed not to overpower but enrich the narration. Offline Ready, Elder Friendly The app will also offer offline downloads so that users on boat rides or in areas with poor network connectivity can still access the content. The interface will be kept simple and intuitive, with pause/play options, chapter selection by ghat, and transcript toggles for the hearing impaired. 'Many elderly pilgrims or foreigners don't engage with printed guides or QR codes. This voice-led journey will feel more natural and accessible," noted Anupama Chauhan, Joint Director, UP Tourism. Rollout and Expansion Plans The rollout of the GPS-enabled audiobook system for Varanasi's 84 ghats will take place in three structured phases. Phase 1, covering the first three months, will focus on research, scriptwriting in Hindi and English, expert vetting by a panel of historians and ASI officials, and voiceover recording by professional artists. The content will then be translated into 13 languages using the AI-based Anuvadini platform. After editing and integration into the UP Tourism mobile app and website, with GPS-based triggers and offline access, the system will undergo internal testing and, following approval from the Tourism Department, be launched for public use. Phase 2 will span the next 36 months, focusing on content and technical maintenance, language updates, user feedback monitoring, and analytics reporting. The agency will ensure hosting support and smooth functionality across devices. Phase 3, an optional 24-month extension, may expand the system to nearby temples, heritage streets, or thematic trails, and potentially include advanced features such as AR/VR or AI-guided tours. This phased rollout ensures long-term sustainability and continuous enrichment of Varanasi's spiritual and cultural tourism experience. Transforming Heritage into a Living Classroom This initiative is not just about convenience or tourism numbers — it's about cultural preservation and emotional connectivity. 'You can build temples and pathways, but making people understand the spirit of a place — that requires storytelling. This app will be Kashi's voice," said Prof Rajeev Sinha, a historian involved in the content design process. With over 7 crore tourists visiting Varanasi in 2023 alone, including nearly 9 lakh foreigners, UP's Tourism Department hopes this step will boost experiential tourism, promote inclusivity, and create lasting emotional bonds between Kashi and its visitors. Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Indian Express
5 days ago
- Indian Express
Govt to restore ancient Shiva temples across state
THE STATE government is working on a plan to restore Shiva temples across Uttar Pradesh to boost local tourism. Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, Uttar Pradesh Projects Corporation limited and Uttar Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation Ltd have collaborated to undertake restoration projects across the state, which includes not just the restoration of Shiva temples but the amenities and other sites adjoining these places as well. Officials informed that 188 ancient temples were identified and rejuvenated in the past eight years and now the focus is on to identify and renovate Shiva temples across the state aiming to boost religious tourism. The old temples and their premises that have been identified for infrastructure upgrades include Shiv Mandir in Bhatta Ki Pipri (Mevalikhurd), Fatehabad (Agra) and Chakleshwar Mahadev and Samaur Baba temples in Firozabad, which are being rennovated through UP Projects Corporation Limited. Whereas, UP State Tourism Development Corporation has been given the responsibility to enhance facilities at Bhuleshwar, Khajni Mahadev, and Jharkhandi Mahadev temples in Gorakhpur, and Tirre Manorama Temple in Gonda. The government is also working on the beautification of Ghanta Ghar in Mainpuri.
Hindustan Times
13-07-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Prayagraj to get 800 registered home stays under new policy
Tourists visiting Prayagraj can look forward to improved lodging options as the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department rolls out its new Home Stay and Bed & Breakfast Policy-2025, replacing the previous paying guest system. The initiative aims to set up around 800 registered home stay and B&B units across the city, providing visitors with comfortable accommodation and food services. Lonikot home stay in Prayagraj (HT) Aparajita Singh, regional tourist officer of Prayagraj, explained that the new policy distinguishes between urban and rural home stays to ensure both quality and authenticity. In urban areas like Prayagraj, eligible home stays must be fully residential properties where the owners reside on-site. Property owners can rent out up to two-thirds of their rooms—ranging from one to six rooms or a maximum of 12 beds. However, larger establishments such as hotels or guest houses are not eligible under this policy. In the urban areas, breakfast is mandatory for guests, while rural home stays in Prayagraj will provide full meal services, immersing tourists in a genuine rural lifestyle. These rural units must meet basic infrastructure standards, including bathrooms, toilets, running water, electricity, and essential furniture. Safety remains a priority under the new policy. Each registered home stay or B&B in Prayagraj must have a caretaker on site, at least three CCTV cameras with 90 days of recording, and fire safety equipment approved by the fire department. Only units meeting these criteria will be registered. The registration process is streamlined through the online portal with applications vetted by a committee led by Prayagraj's district magistrate before approval by the directorate of tourism. Registration fees vary based on categories: Silver and Gold, with urban units paying higher fees than rural ones. The rates fixed include: Silver ( ₹2000 for urban home stay/B&B units, ₹500 for rural units) and Gold ( ₹3000 for urban units, ₹750 for rural units). Current paying guest accommodations in Prayagraj must update their facilities and register under the new policy within one year to continue operating legally. This policy marks a significant step toward promoting safer, more authentic, and quality tourism experiences in Prayagraj, positioning the city as a key destination for both domestic and international travelers.
Hindustan Times
08-06-2025
- Hindustan Times
UP: 50 delegates from 5 ASEAN countries participated in six-day ‘Bodhi yatra'
Lucknow, In a bid to place Uttar Pradesh's Buddhist heritage on the world map, the Yogi Adityanath-led government organised a special six-day "Bodhi Yatra", which saw the participation of 50 delegates from five ASEAN countries. As part of this mission, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, in association with the Union Ministry of External Affairs, organised the "Bodhi Yatra" under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation framework, an official statement said on Sunday. The yatra, held from June 2 to June 7, aimed to showcase key destinations within the state's Buddhist circuit. A 50-member delegation from five ASEAN nations Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam participated in the tour. The group included Buddhist monks, travel agents, and social media influencers. UP's Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said that under CM Yogi Adityanath's leadership, Uttar Pradesh is committed to promote its rich Buddhist heritage on a global platform. The recently held 'Bodhi Yatra' aimed to showcase major Buddhist sites like Shravasti, Kapilvastu, Kushinagar and Sarnath, as well as Varanasi, Lucknow, and Agra to the world tourism map, he said. He informed that during the trip, the visiting delegation explored important sites such as the Ananda Bodhi Tree, Jetavana Monastery, Piprahwa Stupa, Mahaparinirvana Stupa, Dhamek Stupa, Ashokan Pillar, and several Buddhist museums. Jaiveer Singh added that the state government has focused on improving infrastructure, enhancing tourist facilities, and preserving the cultural significance of these sacred places. Earlier in Lucknow, the international delegation met CM Adityanath and learned about Uttar Pradesh's rich and deeply rooted Buddhist heritage. The Tourism Department extended a warm welcome with traditional hospitality and special presentations, showcasing the spiritual and cultural significance of each site on the 'Bodhi Yatra' itinerary. Business-to-business meetings were also held during the 'Bodhi Yatra', helping strengthen tourism and cultural ties between India and Southeast Asian countries. The Tourism Minister said that this effort will not only bring global recognition to UP's Buddhist legacy, but also boost tourism and contribute to the state's economic growth.
Hans India
08-06-2025
- Hans India
Uttar Pradesh: 50 delegates from 5 countries take part in 'Bodhi Yatra', meet CM Yogi
In a bid to place Uttar Pradesh's Buddhist heritage on the world map, Uttar Pradesh government is promoting the state's Buddhist pilgrimage sites through international collaboration and strategic tourism initiatives. As part of this mission, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, in association with the Union Ministry of External Affairs organized a special week-long 'Bodhi Yatra', under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) framework. The familiarisation trip, held from June 2 to June 7, aimed to showcase key destinations within the state's Buddhist circuit. A 50-member delegation from five ASEAN nations -- Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam -- participated in the tour. The group included Buddhist monks, travel agents, and social media influencers. Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh, speaking to the press, said that Uttar Pradesh is committed to promoting its rich Buddhist heritage on a global platform, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's leadership. The recently held 'Bodhi Yatra' aimed to showcase major Buddhist sites like Shravasti, Kapilvastu, Kushinagar and Sarnath, as well as Varanasi, Lucknow, and Agra to the world tourism map. He said that during the trip, the visiting delegation explored important sites such as the Ananda Bodhi Tree, Jetavana Monastery, Piprahwa Stupa, Mahaparinirvana Stupa, Dhamek Stupa, Ashokan Pillar, and several Buddhist museums. He added that the Yogi government has focused on improving infrastructure, enhancing tourist facilities, and preserving the cultural significance of these sacred places. Earlier, the international delegation also met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and learned about Uttar Pradesh's rich and deeply rooted Buddhist heritage. The Tourism Department extended a warm welcome with traditional hospitality and special presentations, showcasing the spiritual and cultural significance of each site on the 'Bodhi Yatra' itinerary. Meetings were also held during the 'Bodhi Yatra', helping strengthen tourism and cultural ties between India and Southeast Asian countries.
