As Ayodhya prepares to welcome millions of visitors for Deepotsav 2025, the Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board has announced an exciting initiative that blends spirituality with sustainability.
For the first time, especially curated eco-tourism itineraries have been prepared for domestic and international tourists, giving them the chance to explore the natural beauty of Uttar Pradesh along with Ayodhya’s divine celebration.
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Five distinct itineraries have been designed, each highlighting the natural charm, wildlife, and ecological treasures of nearby destinations such as Lucknow, Unnao, Varanasi, Ghazipur, and Chandauli. Visitors can choose their preferred route and duration to experience Uttar Pradesh’s rich biodiversity and serene landscapes.
The first itinerary offers a two-day, one-night journey featuring a full-day tour of Ayodhya, followed by a visit to the Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary in Gonda, known for its tranquil wetlands and diverse birdlife.
The second itinerary, spanning three days and two nights, includes a cultural tour of Lucknow, a visit to Ayodhya, and a final day at the Kukrail Reserve Forest, home to the gharial breeding center and a haven for nature lovers.
The third itinerary, lasting four days and three nights, adds a visit to the Ramsar site Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary in Unnao, where tourists can experience migratory birds in their natural habitat.
The fourth itinerary connects Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Ghazipur in a three-day, two-night trip. Alongside visiting sacred sites in Ayodhya and Kashi, tourists can explore the Turtle Breeding and Rehabilitation Center and the Ganga Darpan Museum in Sarnath, and enjoy dolphin sightings in the Ganga River near Saidpur, Ghazipur.
The fifth and the most extensive itinerary covers Ayodhya, Varanasi, Ghazipur, and Chandauli over five days and four nights, culminating with an excursion to the breathtaking Rajdari and Devdari waterfalls in the Chandauli forests.
The initiative aims to ensure that pilgrims and tourists arriving for Deepotsav also discover Uttar Pradesh’s ecological richness. These routes are designed for easy access from Ayodhya and promote sustainable tourism while benefiting local communities through increased livelihood opportunities.
All itineraries are available on the official website of the Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board (www.upecoboard.up.gov.in) and across its social media platforms.
One of the key highlights included in the itineraries is the Ganga Darpan Museum in Sarnath. Developed under the Namami Gange Programme and managed by the Wildlife Institute of India, the museum showcases the biodiversity of the Ganga River and India’s conservation efforts through interactive exhibits and educational displays.
Uttar Pradesh Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said, “Uttar Pradesh is a confluence of faith, spirituality, and nature. The culture here has always celebrated harmony with the environment. The Eco-Tourism Development Board’s initiative is commendable, as it allows visitors from across India and abroad to experience the divine essence of Ayodhya while exploring our state’s natural beauty.”
He added that these tours not only complement the grandeur of Deepotsav 2025 but also strengthen Uttar Pradesh’s position as a holistic destination offering both spiritual and ecological experiences.
From the glowing ghats of Ayodhya to the lush forests and serene riverscapes of the state, the new eco-tourism itineraries promise a journey where devotion meets discovery and faith finds its reflection in nature.
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