Discover Prayagraj from a New Perspective: Mini Cruise Service
The Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation is set to launch a mini cruise service in Prayagraj, alongside catamaran and cruise services in Ayodhya and Kashi. This initiative comes as part of the state’s efforts to enhance its tourism offerings and improve the overall experience for visitors. According to Uttar Pradesh Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh, these services are expected to resume after the rainy season, offering tourists unique water-based experiences across the region.
Last month, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) delivered state-of-the-art catamaran boats to Ayodhya and Kashi, and electric boats to Prayagraj. The fully air-conditioned catamaran in Ayodhya has a seating capacity of 50 passengers, while the mini cruise boats in Prayagraj each have a capacity of 30. Six motorboats and two rescue boats have also been provided to further enhance the tourist experience. These boats will be operated under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, with tenders already issued for this purpose.
Uttar Pradesh has seen significant growth in tourism, emerging as one of the top travel destinations in India. In 2023, the state recorded over 48 crore visitors, and expectations are even higher for the 2025 Mahakumbh, where more than 40 crore tourists are anticipated to visit. To meet this growing demand, the government is focusing on enhancing infrastructure, particularly in the areas of religious, rural, and water sports tourism.
Minister Jaiveer Singh highlighted the importance of offering tourists an unforgettable experience in Uttar Pradesh. “In response to the increasing tourist influx in Ayodhya, two additional solar-powered boats, each seating 30 people, will be added,” he said. These boats will be provided by the New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (NEDA) to ensure eco-friendly travel options for tourists.
The addition of solar-powered boats aligns with Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to sustainability, ensuring that the state can cater to its growing number of visitors while maintaining its natural and cultural heritage. “The government aims to ensure that tourists leave with a pleasant experience and share their positive feedback about Uttar Pradesh’s infrastructure and facilities,” Singh added.
With these new offerings, Uttar Pradesh is set to strengthen its position as a leading tourism destination in India, offering visitors a blend of rich cultural experiences and modern, sustainable travel options.
As Uttar Pradesh gears up for the Mahakumbh in 2025, the introduction of mini cruise services and catamaran boats in Prayagraj, Ayodhya, and Kashi marks a significant step in enhancing the state’s tourism infrastructure. These services not only offer unique travel experiences but also demonstrate the state’s commitment to sustainability and visitor satisfaction.
