By Neha Mehrotra
In a brilliant fusion of history and hospitality, the Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has set its sights on transforming several historical monuments into exquisite heritage hotels. It not only promises to reinvigorate the state’s tourism scene but also safeguards the cultural heritage that has stood the test of time.
The list includes iconic sites like the Chhattar Manzil in Lucknow, Chunar Fort in Mirzapur, Barua Sagar Fort in Jhansi, Kothi Gulistan-e-Iram, Kothi Darshan Vilas, and Kothi Roshan in Lucknow, Barsana Jal Mahal in Mathura, Shukla Talab in Kanpur, and Tikait Rai Baradari in Bithoor. With a profound understanding of the value these historical treasures hold, the Archaeological Department has gracefully entrusted these structures to the state government for their careful conversion.
Restoring Glory: From Ruins to Grandeur
As the vision takes shape, heritage hotels are set to become symbols of charm and elegance. Offering an immersive experience of Nawabi culture, these hotels will undoubtedly become sought-after destinations for travellers yearning for a taste of regal heritage. Moreover, the grandeur and charisma of these venues will draw those seeking enchanting settings for grand weddings and functions.
The roadmap for this transformation is both innovative and respectful of the past. Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh elucidates that these heritage buildings will be leased to private entities for 90 years, a timeframe that ensures their commitment to the preservation and enhancement of these architectural wonders. Crucially, the sanctity of the original structures will remain sacrosanct, with strict prohibitions against altering their fundamental designs. Even structures that have suffered up to 75 per cent ruins will be revived through meticulous repairs and thoughtful remodelling.
According to the spokesman, wellness centres, heritage hotels, resorts, museums, heritage restaurants, boutique restaurants, banquet halls, wedding tourism, adventure tourism homestays, thematic parks, and other tourism and hospitality units will be constructed. Additionally, the government also plans to install educational signage about the history of the structure, showcasing local customs, cuisine, and arts.
The Role of Key Hospitality Players
As the state tourism department sets the wheels in motion, the who’s who of hospitality is vying for a piece of history. Leela Hotels, Neemrana Hotels, Indian Hotels Company (Taj), Mahindra Hotels and Resorts, Oberoi, The Lalit, Hyatt Regency, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts, Accor Group, Royal Orchid Hotels, Ramada, Clarks, Bridgeman Group of Hotels, and more have already shown a keen interest to help establish these heritage hotels.
In bridging the gap between history and modernity, the UP government’s decision to convert these historical monuments into heritage hotels is nothing short of visionary. It not only promises to breathe new life into the vestiges of the past but also offers tourists an unprecedented opportunity to be part of an era that continues to resonate in the present.
