The Uttar Pradesh government has taken a significant step toward placing historic sites from the Mahabharata era on the global tourism map.
Under the Chief Minister’s Tourism Development Scheme, the Tourism Department has sanctioned Rs 3 crore for the ‘Mahabharata Circuit’ project in Meerut district. This funding will be used for the integrated development of the Shringi Rishi Ashram in Hastinapur and Parikshitgarh.
This was announced by Uttar Pradesh Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh here on Thursday, who said that tourism development in religious regions is a top priority for the state. Rs 1 crore has been approved for the development of Hastinapur and Rs 2 crore for Parikshitgarh’s Shringi Rishi Ashram.
“Such initiatives will give new recognition to our rich cultural heritage and religious legacy while attracting devotees and tourists alike,” he said.
Hastinapur and Parikshitgarh hold a special place in Hindu tradition. In the Mahabharata era, Hastinapur was the capital of the Pandavas, while Parikshitgarh was ruled by King Parikshit. The ancient Rishi Ashrams here are living symbols of spirituality, meditation, and the eternal Sanatan tradition. Through the department’s efforts, these sites are being revitalized to preserve their religious, historical, and cultural significance while giving Pandav Nagari a renewed identity.
The government’s plan aims to protect the state’s ancient cultural and religious heritage while expanding tourism opportunities. This includes upgrading local amenities, improving road connectivity, installing informative and visually appealing signage, setting up tourist information centers, building modern rest areas, and organizing regular cultural events.
Jaiveer Singh stated, “The Uttar Pradesh Government is committed to taking tourism to new heights. The ‘Mahabharata Circuit’ will not only bring the state’s glorious Mahabharata-era legacy to life but will also link Hastinapur, Parikshitgarh, and nearby heritage sites with modern tourism facilities, making them major attractions for national and international visitors. This project will preserve our cultural roots, open new employment opportunities for local youth and artisans, directly benefit the economy, and strengthen Meerut’s place on the state tourism map.”