UP govt approves Rs 4 cr to develop Draupadi’s birthplace Kampilya under Mahabharata Circuit

In a major push to promote heritage tourism, the Uttar Pradesh government has approved a ₹4 crore project for the integrated development of Kampilya (Kampil) in Farrukhabad, an ancient town deeply rooted in the Ramayana and Mahabharata eras.

Known as the birthplace of Draupadi and the capital of Panchal during Mahabharata times, the town is set to emerge as a signature site under the Mahabharata Circuit.

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Announcing the project approval, UP Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh stated that the government is committed to reviving Uttar Pradesh’s cultural and spiritual heritage. “Kampilya is not just a place of ancient glory, it is the living testimony of our civilisational past. The state government is determined to preserve Draupadi’s birthplace and other treasures of this land while ensuring modern facilities for pilgrims and tourists,” he said.

As part of the project, the town will see new gateways, beautification, improved lighting, signage, tourist information centres, clean drinking water, rest areas, and sanitation facilities, making it more welcoming for visitors.

Historians identify Kampilya as the capital of King Drupad, father of Draupadi. Local tradition holds that Draupadi was born here, and her legendary swayamvar (marriage ceremony) was also held in the town. The famous Draupadi Kund remains a major draw for visitors even today. Important sites such as the Rameshwar Nath Temple and Gita Gyan Ashram add to the area’s spiritual significance.

The Rameshwar Nath Temple is believed to house the same Shivling that Lord Ram brought from Lanka after defeating Ravan, which was later consecrated on the banks of the Ganga by his brother Shatrughna. Even today, thousands of devotees throng here during the Shravan month.

Kampilya is also sacred to Jain followers, with its ancient Digambar Jain Temple housing the idol of the 13th Tirthankara, Lord Vimalnath. Jain texts also identify the town as the birthplace of Lord Vimalnath, while some traditions trace its origins back to Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara.

Farrukhabad has already been witnessing a surge in tourist footfall. In 2024, over 25.47 lakh visitors explored the district. In just the first three months of 2025, more than 10.41 lakh tourists arrived. With the new Kampilya project, officials estimate the number could touch 35–40 lakh visitors by year-end.

Minister Jaiveer Singh said the government’s vision is to place Uttar Pradesh firmly on the global tourism map by reviving sites of epic importance. “Farrukhabad is blessed with cultural and spiritual diversity, housing revered sites across faiths. By developing Kampilya under the Mahabharata Circuit, we are not only preserving history but also creating new opportunities for jobs, tourism, and the local economy,” he added.