Agencies
LUCKNOW, Jan 2: Uttar Pradesh continues to lead the nation in domestic tourist arrivals, retaining its number one position for the third consecutive year. The achievement also reflects the transformative impact of tourism on the state's economy. Every tourist contributes to local employment through expenditures on accommodation, food, transportation, and shopping, thereby enhancing the standard of living for residents. Over time, this influx directly bolsters both the state and national economies. To ensure Uttar Pradesh remains a top destination for travelers, the Yogi government is steadfast in its efforts to guarantee the safety, convenience, and seamless transportation of tourists.
Boasting the highest number of operational expressways and three international airports, with the fourth-Asia's largest international airport at Jewar-set to open soon after a successful trial landing, the state is continually improving the travel experience for visitors. Uttar Pradesh has 15 functional airports, with six more currently under construction.
On the infrastructure front, six expressways are operational, and construction is underway on seven more. The expansion of metro services across major cities further enhances the tourist experience, ensuring pleasant, safe, and enjoyable journeys. Guided by the ethos of Atithi Devo Bhava (Guest is God), the Yogi government is committed to providing world-class facilities and ensuring that every tourist leaves with lasting memories of Uttar Pradesh. To achieve this, the government has introduced initiatives such as training tourist guides and deploying specially trained tourism police in select locations.
Recognizing tourism's growing importance, educational institutions are launching new programs. IGNOU, for example, has introduced a tourism degree focused on Kashi and its surroundings, with similar initiatives expected to follow, boosting the sector's development.
The state has witnessed exponential growth in tourist numbers over the past five years, with 8.70 crore visitors in 2020, rising to 10.97 crore in 2021, 32.18 crore in 2022, and 48.01 crore in 2023.
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