(Villages of Mukharai and Jait in Mathura Show How Rural Tourism is Shaping a New Narrative in the State – Up Tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh)
TTT NEWS NETWORK
LUCKNOW | 10 JULY 2025
In a significant shift from traditional tourist circuits, Uttar Pradesh’s rural heartland is fast becoming a vibrant hub for immersive tourism experiences. Beyond iconic cities like Ayodhya, Kashi, Prayagraj, and Agra, travellers are now discovering the cultural richness and hospitality of the state’s villages.
The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has been actively promoting rural tourism as a means to strengthen local economies while preserving intangible heritage. Initiatives under the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Policy 2022 are closely aligned with the state’s vision of becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2027. As part of this, over 700 homestays have already been registered across the state, enabling travellers to stay with local families and experience regional culture first-hand. Mathura’s Mukharai and Jait stand out as successful examples of this initiative.
These villages offer more than scenic views and pastoral calm, they open doors to living traditions, folk art, craft heritage, and local flavours that resonate with authenticity. By engaging directly with local communities, tourists experience rural life up close, and in turn, contribute to the revival of forgotten customs and economic upliftment.
Mukharai, The Ancestral Village of Radha Rani:
Located about 25 km from Mathura, near Govardhan and Radhakund, Mukharai is widely regarded as the maternal home of Radha Rani, named after her grandmother Mukha Devi. The village is renowned for the traditional Charkula dance, where women perform graceful routines balancing lit lamps on their heads.
Surrounded by sacred destinations such as Govardhan (6 km), Vrindavan (20 km), Barsana (26 km) and Krishna Janmabhoomi (25 km), Mukharai has witnessed the development of several homestays offering traditional hospitality and cuisine.
According to Mukharai’s Gram Pradhaan, Jagdish Prasad, visitors can also witness and participate in the making of traditional Laddu Gopal Poshak, adding a unique cultural dimension to their travel experience. The village is now increasingly being included in Vrindavan-bound tourist itineraries, expanding the scope of religious tourism into cultural immersion.
Jait, Where Tulsi Beads Carry Stories of Faith:
The village of Jait is steeped in tradition and known for its centuries-old practices of Tulsi cultivation and Tulsi mala making. It is also home to the Kaliya Mardan temple, believed to be the spot where Kaliya Naag turned into stone, as a result of not heeding to Lord Krishna’s instructions. Visitors staying in Jait’s homestays can explore Tulsi fields and engage in hands-on workshops to craft their own Tulsi bead malas. Each bead is considered sacred by devotees of Lord Krishna and Vishnu.
Gram Pradhaan Mamta Devi shared that under government-supported skill development programmes, local women have been trained in mala making and provided with modern tools to enhance their productivity. In addition to mala-making, clay pottery workshops are also conducted which have been attracting tourists and benefiting local artisans economically.
Commenting on the state’s growing rural tourism potential, Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said, “The monsoon season is ideal for visiting rural tourism sites in Uttar Pradesh. The lush greenery, festive atmosphere, and farming activity offer tourists a unique glimpse into the rural way of life. Villages like Mukharai and Jait are perfect for those seeking peace, authenticity, and a deep connection to Indian culture.”
He added that the Tourism Department is committed to developing basic infrastructure in these rural destinations to make them more accessible and enjoyable for both domestic and international tourists.
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