LEAD NEWS :GARHMUKTESHWAR GETS RS. 19.50 CR MAKEOVER TO TRANSFORM INTO SPIRITUAL AND RURAL TOURISM HUB

*Explore a Rich Tourism Circuit within 10 Km of Garhmukteshwar, A Complete Tourism Package

*”Our Vision is to Blend Devotion, Culture, Heritage and Hospitality in Garhmukteshwar” – Jaiveer Singh

TTT NEWS NETWORK

LUCKNOW | 22 JULY 2025

In a major push to transform the region’s tourism landscape, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has approved development projects worth Rs. 19.50 crore. These projects aim to strengthen Garhmukteshwar and Hapur as vibrant spiritual and rural tourism destinations by upgrading spiritual infrastructure and introducing modern amenities that cater to both pilgrims and leisure travelers.

Key developments include the comprehensive redevelopment of Braj Ghat, just 3 km from Garhmukteshwar, where a water laser show will offer immersive visual storytelling. Supporting infrastructure such as vending zones, food plazas, and improved community spaces are also being developed to enhance the tourist experience. Spiritual landmarks within the town, including Nakka Kuan (near Guru Teghbahadur Gurudwara), Kalyaneshwar Mahadev Temple, and Panchayati Mandir in Bada Bazaar are undergoing beautification to reinforce Garhmukteshwar’s religious significance.

Garhmukteshwar, a historic town in Hapur district, is set to emerge as one of Uttar Pradesh’s most promising spiritual and rural tourism destinations. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganga River, the town is home to the revered Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Considered a wish-fulfilling shrine by devotees, the temple draws thousands of pilgrims each year, especially during the annual Kartik Purnima Mela, which is believed to be over 5,000 years old and remains a major cultural and religious attraction.

To promote tourism further in the region, focused efforts have been made to develop rural tourism and offer tourists an immersive experience through village homestays. PoothPushpavati, a scenic village in Garhmukteshwar tehsil, has emerged as a key model in this initiative. Steeped in Mahabharata-era heritage and dotted with spiritual landmarks such as the ancient Shiv Mandir and the historically significant Shankara Tila mound, the village offers a unique blend of spirituality, history, and rural charm. Ten homestays have been set up in the area, providing visitors with an authentic countryside experience, including traditional cuisine, nature walks, temple tours, and cultural interactions with farmers and artisans.

Among the standout efforts in rural tourism is the development of PoothPushpavati, a scenic village in Garhmukteshwar tehsil. Steeped in Mahabharata-era heritage and dotted with spiritual landmarks such as the ancient Shiv Mandir and Shankara Tila mound, the village is fast emerging as a model rural tourism destination. Ten homestays have been set up in the area, providing visitors with an authentic countryside experience including local cuisine, nature walks, temple tours, and cultural interactions with farmers and artisans.

In collaboration with local stakeholders and tourism bodies, capacity-building workshops have empowered village residents through training in hospitality, storytelling, guiding, and food safety. A notable initiative was the agarbatti and dhoopbatti-making workshop held for 15 women and youth, promoting self-reliance through eco-friendly product creation using natural ingredients like cow dung, herbs, and flowers. These inclusive development efforts reflect a larger goal to blend spirituality, heritage, and rural charm into a holistic visitor experience that also generates sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

The transformation of Garhmukteshwar is further supported by its strategic proximity to Delhi NCR, making it an ideal weekend getaway. The upgraded infrastructure, coupled with rich traditions and heritage, makes it attractive not only to pilgrims but also to families, solo travelers, and cultural explorers.

The region is also complemented by nearby attractions such as Garh Drizzling Land, Kuchesar Fort, Neemrana Fort, Shiv Bari Mandir, and Fort Unchagaon. Tourists can visit Pilkhuwa, known for its handloom industry, or explore Hapur’s grain markets. All destinations lie within a compact 10-km radius, creating a well-rounded and immersive tourism circuit.

As the transformation continues, Garhmukteshwar is on track to become a benchmark in spiritual, cultural, and rural tourism, with the power to uplift both the traveler’s spirit and the local economy.