In a good news for travellers frequenting rural areas, the Uttar Pradesh tourism department has joined hands with homestay providers. An agreement has been signed, through which these homestays will render an enhanced travel and authentic farm stay experience to tourists.

The immersive experience will revolve around exploring the local culture, vibrant cuisines and passing on information of the local folklore. Tourists will also get to immerse in activities that usually accompany a distinct rudimentary culture.

UP tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh highlighted, “The tourism department is also providing subsidy under the Tourism Policy 2022 for setting up farm stays in rural and near major destinations. The selected villages are being converted into rural tourism centres by the state government to provide a unique experience of rural tourism along with local culture.”

The tourism of these rural lodgings will get a further push through internet connectivity and basic amenities. Additionally, tourists will get acquainted with seasonal crops and eco-gardens, boosting rural tourism in UP and its eco-village culture. To wit, recently, Basti's ‘My Mom Rural Homestay’, located 70 kms from Ayodhya, and ‘Gulmohar Rural Homestay’, tucked away in Udaipurwa's eco-village project in Banda district, were opened for public.

“Uttar Pradesh is known for its cultural heritage, historical monuments and natural beauty. There is immense potential for tourism in the state and the trend of rural tourism is increasing rapidly. People are attracted towards rural tourism to get refreshed by spending time in rural environment amid nature,” the minister added.