To promote rural tourism, several villages in Prayagraj and the surrounding areas are being developed under the “Agri-Rural and Ganga Gram Rural Tourism project. At the community level, efforts are focused on transforming selected villages, which are known for their unique agricultural, natural, heritage, devotional, and cultural characteristics, into tourism villages. The aim of the rural tourism project is to provide domestic and international tourists with a comfortable rural cultural experience, enriching their visits and contributing to local economic empowerment.
This form of tourism emphasizes immersion in rural lifestyles, allowing tourists to participate in daily village activities and connect with local traditions. In these selected villages, unique features and available resources, particularly human sources, are being enhanced to offer various tourism activities. These include scenic village tours with local guides, excursions, traditional cuisine, trekking, bullock cart rides, pottery making, cycling, live exhibitions, folk songs, folk dances, agriculture-based activities, and cultural and traditional events. Additionally, local communities will provide homestay options, offering visitors an authentic experience of rural life. With the support of local communities, efforts are underway to promote ‘rural tourism in several regions of Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the state’s rural lifestyle, art, culture, and heritage. These prime tourism spots are recognized for their rich cultural heritage and natural resources.
With the vision of developing rural tourism, the state has outlined objectives that include promoting long-term industrial growth, encouraging community participation for socio-economic upliftment, showcasing Uttar Pradesh’s culture and engagement, and advancing economic development driven by tourism
Main Attractions:
Ramghat, Ramdarshan, Ram Shaiya, Hanuman Dhara, Sitapur, Sphatik Shila, Bharat Milap, and Kamadgiri.
Bithoor
Situated 22 km from Kanpur on the road to Kannauj, Bithoor is a peaceful town on the sacred banks of the Ganges River. Historically and religiously significant, Bithoor was known as Brahmavarta in ancient texts.
It is believed that after restoring the universe, Lord Brahma resided here. Bithoor holds special importance in the Ramayana as well, as it was here that Sage Valmiki meditated and composed the timeless epic, earning Bithoor the name Ramala. It was also here that Lord Ram’s sons, Lava and Kusha, were born and spent their childhood before meeting their father, In recent history, Bithoor played a pivotal role in the 1857 Indian Rebellion, where prominent figures like Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi and Nana Sahib Peshwa spent their
formative years, honing the warrior skills they later used in the fight for independence.
Shringverpur
Shringverpur
Located 40 km from Prayagraj on the Lucknow road, Shringverpur is a site of great religious significance. According to legend, this is where Lord Shri Ram crossed the Ganges River with Sita and Lakshman during their exile. The Ramayana mentions that Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, and Lakshman spent a night here at the invitation of Nishadraj, the king of the fisherfolk. Described as the capital of Nishadraj’s kingdom, excavations in Shringverpur have revealed a temple dedicated to Sage Shringi, after whom the place is named. The epic also recounts how Nishadraj, in a gesture of devotion, washed Lord Ram’s feet with Ganges water and drank it, earning the Lord’s grace. The area also has a temple dedicated to Sage Shringi’s wife, Shanta Devi.
Singarur village, located in Shringverpur Dham, is being developed under the rural tourism project. Situated 30 km from the Prayagraj headquarters, this is the place where the ashram of Sage Shringi and his wife, Mother Shanta, was located on the banks of the Ganges. The site holds both mythological and historical significance. During Lord Ram’s journey into exile, he spent a night here with Goddess Sita and Lakshman. The village also houses a Sanskrit university offering various courses in the Sanskrit language. Local accommodations are being enhanced to provide tourists with the opportunity to experience rural life. Visitors can enjoy boating and savor “Rasiyav” (a dish made from jaggery and milk) during their stay.
Ghoorpur, Jasra
Ghoorpur, Jasra
Located 18 km from the Prayagraj district headquarters on the Re Road, Ghoorpur village is rich in religious, mythological, and natural beauty. Close to the village, on the banks of the Yamuna River, is the Sujawan Dev Temple, where a fair is held every year. According to legend, this is the place where Lord Yama visited his sister, the Goddess Yamuna, on Yama Dwitiya (Bhai Dooj). Pleased with her hospitality, Lord Yama granted her a boon, to which she requested that those who bathe in the Yamuna on Bhai Dooj would be freed from the fear of death. Nearby attractions include the Mankameshwar Temple, Mansuria Devi Temple, and more. Ghoorpur is also known for its warm hospitality and serves local delicacies to visitors, with its rasgullas being particularly famous.
