In a move to promote religious tourism in Uttar Pradesh, the state government has approved tourism development projects for two prominent faith centers in Prayagraj. The projects include the development and beautification of Falhari Baba Temple in Karchhana and Durga Mandir–Devi Dham Pachdeva in Soraon tehsil, with a total investment of around ₹3.46 crore.
The initiatives aim to revamp the temple premises and provide modern amenities for devotees and tourists visiting these sacred sites.
Focus on Developing Lesser-Known Religious Destinations
Uttar Pradesh Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said that Prayagraj, known as the Tirth Nagari, remains a major attraction for devotees and tourists from across India and abroad.
He added that the Tourism Department is focusing not only on well-known pilgrimage centers but also on the comprehensive development of lesser-known religious sites to enhance the state’s spiritual tourism potential.
Under the approved plan:
- ₹1.64 crore has been sanctioned for the tourism development of Falhari Baba Temple in Karchhana.
- ₹1.82 crore has been approved for the beautification and tourism infrastructure development of Durga Mandir and Devi Dham Pachdeva in Soraon.
First Installment of Funds Released
The minister informed that the first installment of funds has already been released for both projects.
- ₹40 lakh has been allocated for the development of Falhari Baba Temple.
- ₹45 lakh has been released for the Durga Mandir project in Soraon.
Modern Facilities to Be Developed at Temple Sites
As part of the development plan, several facilities will be created to improve the experience of pilgrims and tourists. The works will include:
- Beautification of temple premises
- Installation of modern lighting systems
- Construction of grand entrance gates
- Pilgrim shelters for visitors
- Stamped flooring pathways
- Benches for seating
- Clean toilets and drinking water facilities
- Dustbins and signage systems
- Decorative mural art within temple complexes
These improvements are expected to enhance both the spiritual ambiance and visitor convenience at the sites.
Prayagraj Emerging as Major Religious Tourism Hub
Jaiveer Singh noted that Prayagraj’s Sangam city has been a historic center of faith and cultural consciousness for centuries. It also forms an important part of Uttar Pradesh’s spiritual tourism circuit.
He emphasized that the government aims to bring lesser-known religious destinations onto the tourism map, alongside established pilgrimage sites.
Highlighting the rapid growth in religious tourism, the minister said that around 69 crore devotees and tourists visited Prayagraj in 2025. Additionally, the recently concluded Magh Mela 2026 witnessed the arrival of more than 21 crore pilgrims, reflecting the strong rise in spiritual tourism in the region.
