Uttar Pradesh Travel Mart in Gorakhpur highlights state

Pallavi Sharma

Uttar Pradesh is a leading destination in domestic tourism with an influx of 38 crore tourists in 2023, striving to achieve the same feat in inbound tourist footfall.

The travel mart was a strategically structured event that provided a platform for stakeholders, including leading tour operators, to engage in B2B meetings. The state government actively sought input from industry experts to craft new infrastructure developments at tourism destinations and elevate facilities. The edition was expected to kickstart a new phase of tourism development, bolstered by enhanced connectivity, improved law and order, and ongoing expansion of tourism amenities statewide.

The inauguration ceremony on April 25 began with lamp lighting followed by a keynote address on ‘Development of Eco-Tourism in Uttar Pradesh’ by Prakhar Mishra, Director, UP Tourism Department and Isha Priya, Special Secretary, Uttar Pradesh Tourism. A presentation on ‘IATO’s Role in Tourism Development of Uttar Pradesh’ by Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) was given by President Rajiv Mehra. In another presentation, Ravi Ranjan, Managing Director of Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation, outlined the future plans of the UP Tourism Development Corporation.

On the second day of the event, Chief Secretary Durga Shankar Mishra and Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture, Mukesh Kumar Meshram, provided an overview of the exhibition area and discussed ‘Tourism Department’s Strategy and Future Plans.’

Additionally, a FAM trip was also organised under UPTM by tour and travel operators to explore and learn about Gorakhpur, Ayodhya, Varanasi, Sarnath, Kaushambi, and Prayagraj while providing comprehensive information about the region.

The event featured exhibitors from diverse sectors like UP Tourism, hotels, airlines, travel agents, and wedding management companies, providing excellent opportunities for collaboration, exploration, and growth. With over 150 participants, including both Indian and international delegates, UPTM in Gorakhpur offered a vibrant platform for networking and business prospects. Esteemed travel writers and bloggers also attended the event, highlighting the array of experiences awaiting travelers in Uttar Pradesh.