Uttar Pradesh (UP), one of India’s most diverse and culturally rich states, has taken a significant leap toward rural tourism with the inauguration of the Rural Tourism Conclave 2025. Held in Lucknow at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, this high-profile event aimed to redefine India’s tourism narrative by placing rural India at the center of its growth strategy. This conclave brought together policymakers, tourism experts, sustainability advocates, and local entrepreneurs to chart out a comprehensive blueprint for rural tourism, positioning villages not just as tourist spots but as the cultural and economic backbone of the nation.

With a clear vision of empowerment, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability, Uttar Pradesh is paving the way for rural tourism to thrive. The state’s ambition is to turn villages into sustainable hubs, offering authentic experiences that go beyond the conventional tourism model. The conclave underscored a shift toward immersive, culturally-rich travel experiences, promoting rural homestays, eco-tourism, and community-led initiatives.

Uttar Pradesh’s Vision: A Hub for Rural Tourism

Uttar Pradesh is set to emerge as the nation’s leader in rural tourism, offering a wealth of untapped potential. During the Rural Tourism Conclave 2025, the state’s Tourism and Culture Minister, Jaiveer Singh, highlighted the importance of villages as the heart of India’s history and culture. According to him, the roots of Indian civilization lie in its rural areas, and tourism should connect urban travelers to the rich traditions and values that these villages preserve. The conclave featured speeches and discussions with key figures in the tourism, sustainability, and agriculture sectors.

Key Highlights from the Rural Tourism Conclave 2025:

• Village-Led Tourism: Uttar Pradesh is shifting its tourism focus from monuments and cities to the villages, where the soul of Indian culture resides.
• Recognition of Rural Hosts: Over 40 homestay and farmstay owners were honored for their contribution to promoting rural tourism and redefining hospitality.
• Plans for Sustainability: The state is focusing on sustainable tourism models that integrate natural farming, eco-tourism, and rural craftsmanship with tourism activities.

Policy and Community Support for Rural Hubs

During the conclave, UP Tourism announced that 234 villages would be developed into tourism hubs, with a focus on sustainable development and community engagement. These hubs will receive subsidies, incentives, and on-ground support to help develop the infrastructure needed for tourism. The state government has already laid out plans for the development of more than 750 homestays, creating a diverse range of accommodation options that reflect the rural ethos.

Moreover, the state is focusing on creating dual income streams for villagers, integrating tourism with local agricultural and craft practices. The integration of silk farming and agriculture projects within the tourism industry is expected to provide a stable income for rural families and make their communities more economically self-sufficient.

Engagement of Rural Youth in Tourism

Another significant aspect of the conclave was the emphasis on empowering rural youth by providing them with the necessary skills to become active participants in the tourism ecosystem. Over 285 youth were trained to work in the tourism industry, with programs focusing on customer service, hospitality, and sustainable tourism practices.

Incentives such as 25% subsidies and stamp duty exemptions have been rolled out to encourage local communities, including women artisans and self-help groups, to engage in tourism activities. This focus on local artisanship ensures that tourism in Uttar Pradesh will not only offer visitors a taste of authentic village life but also provide economic empowerment to women and marginalized groups.

Creating Sustainable and Profitable Rural Tourism Ecosystems

The conclave also featured case studies on global models of agri-tourism and sustainable tourism practices, with experts sharing insights on how to create profitable yet environmentally friendly tourism ecosystems. Speakers discussed how rural areas can benefit from natural farming models and eco-tourism initiatives, providing valuable lessons for Uttar Pradesh’s tourism future.

Tourism as a Bridge Between Past and Future

In his concluding remarks, Minister Jaiveer Singh underscored that rural tourism is more than just a tourism trend; it is a movement to bring dignity and opportunity to rural India. He explained that rural tourism offers an opportunity for travelers to experience the simplicity and richness of rural life, bridging the gap between the modern, urban lifestyle and traditional rural values. By promoting this form of tourism, Uttar Pradesh is laying the foundation for a more inclusive and sustainable future for its rural communities.

Follow-Up Initiatives: FAM Trips and Immersive Experiences

As a follow-up to the conclave, Uttar Pradesh Tourism announced a FAM (familiarization) trip for key stakeholders to experience the rural tourism opportunities firsthand. The trip will include visits to traditional farmstays and women artisan workshops, with opportunities for travelers to engage directly with rural communities.

The trip will also highlight the region’s local cuisine, crafts, and cultural traditions, showcasing how tourism can support cultural revival and inclusive growth. Key destinations in the FAM trip include visits to ChandraKanta Farmstay, Ikigai Farms, Midori Farms, and Grow Farmstay in Barabanki, which will offer participants a traditional welcome, along with opportunities for interactive sessions with local communities.

Rural Tourism for a Sustainable Future

Through initiatives like the Rural Tourism Conclave 2025, Uttar Pradesh is setting a precedent for other states in India to follow. The focus is not just on attracting tourists, but on ensuring that tourism benefits the local communities, promotes environmental sustainability, and preserves the cultural heritage of rural India.

By integrating farmstays, local crafts, and eco-tourism into a broader tourism model, Uttar Pradesh is creating a tourism ecosystem that aligns with the principles of inclusive growth and sustainable development. These efforts will help build a future where rural areas are not only seen as the past of India but also as a critical part of its vibrant tourism future.

Conclusion:

The Rural Tourism Conclave 2025 held in Lucknow marks a defining moment in the journey of Uttar Pradesh to become a hub for rural tourism. The state’s ambitious plans, backed by policy initiatives and community-driven models, are setting the stage for villages to emerge as the heart of India’s tourism industry. With a focus on sustainability, empowerment, and authenticity, Uttar Pradesh’s rural tourism initiatives are poised to create transformative opportunities for both travelers and local communities.

As more rural hubs are developed, the coming years will likely witness a renaissance of rural tourism in India, with Uttar Pradesh leading the way as a pioneer in creating meaningful, sustainable tourism experiences that benefit all.