The Brew News Managing Editor Shaneer N Siddiqui speaks with Prateek Hira, Chairman, IATO Uttar Pradesh Chapter, at Arabian Travel Market 2025
The Brew News: When you talk about tourism in Uttar Pradesh, what exactly does it mean? Ten years ago, there didn’t seem to be much of a tourism concept in the state.
Prateek Hira: That’s true. A decade ago, Uttar Pradesh wasn’t viewed as a complete tourism destination. However, today, the state is rediscovering its unique strengths and developing its tourism economy. Initially, we had Taj Mahal in Agra as the main draw for international tourists—it’s iconic and practically became the face of Indian tourism. But now, we’ve expanded beyond that. Varanasi is no longer just a religious centre; it’s a global spiritual hub and the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Ayodhya, too, has emerged as a major attraction, especially with recent developments. UP is embracing its vast heritage.
The Brew News: UP seems to have an incredible spiritual corridor across religions, yet much of its potential remains untapped. What’s being done to change that?
Prateek Hira: Absolutely, and change is happening fast. With the upcoming Noida International Airport, UP will soon become the gateway to India. The spiritual circuit of Mathura, Agra, Lucknow, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Kashi will redefine religious tourism. Our extensive expressway and highway network ensures seamless connectivity. Remarkably, UP now has the highest number of operational airports in India.
The Brew News: What are the plans for Kushinagar Airport, especially regarding Buddhist tourism?
Prateek Hira: Kushinagar is strategically important. It will serve as a gateway to Lumbini in Nepal—the birthplace of Lord Buddha. While there are some technical and operational matters being addressed, the infrastructure is world-class. It will also benefit NRIs from eastern UP and western Bihar.
The Brew News: Lucknow Airport has also seen recent redevelopment. What new facilities can tourists expect there?
Prateek Hira: As a member of the airport committee, I can confirm that major developments are underway. An ‘aerocity’ is being planned near the airport, featuring several five-star hotels and what will be India’s largest convention centre. This aligns with the integrated smart city plan for Lucknow.
The Brew News: Tourism growth must be matched with safety and security. What is the state government doing on that front?
Prateek Hira: Perception plays a huge role. We recently organised a solo women travellers’ trip to Varanasi. Many international tourists are visiting UP, especially Varanasi, and importantly, there have been no reports of crime against travellers. Our participation at Arabian Travel Market is also focused on correcting outdated perceptions.
The Brew News: Uttar Pradesh still lacks direct connectivity with top global airlines like Emirates or Etihad. Any progress?
Prateek Hira: Emirates has shown interest in flying to Lucknow. However, our current airstrip doesn’t support wide-body aircraft. The airport authorities are working on this, and I’m confident that soon we’ll have direct flights from Europe and the Middle East.
The Brew News: What initiatives are being taken to promote tourism in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities in UP?
Prateek Hira: The state is rolling out the ‘One District–One Product’ scheme, along with ‘One District–One Food’ and ‘One Economy’ models. This holistic approach allows each district to showcase its unique cultural, culinary, and economic identity, thereby boosting local tourism and development.
