By weaving together ancient mythology, Harappan-era history and vital freedom struggle milestones, UP aims to establish a “Mahabharata Tourism Circuit” that promises to put the region firmly on the global cultural map. Meerut: As Baghpat marks its 29th foundation day, Uttar Pradesh govt is spearheading an ambitious multi-crore transformation plan to position the district as a major religious, archaeological and heritage tourism destination.
Investment in Tourism Infrastructure for 2026-27
During a recent review meeting for the Meerut division, DM Asmita Lal highlighted the connection between ongoing projects and future tourism initiatives in the region. Authorities assessed 27 new proposals with a total value of Rs 50.45 crore aimed at enhancing circuit-based tourism during the fiscal year 2026-27.
Breakthrough discoveries at Sinauli—starting with graveyards and pottery in 2007, followed by the landmark 2018 uncovering of 4,000-year-old bronze chariots predating the Iron Age—have brought international acclaim to the region. Other significant finds, such as a copper crown unearthed in Chandayan village in 2015, point to an ancient royal connection. A redevelopment project at Pura Mahadev was launched in Oct 2025 to upgrade temple infrastructure, build an open-air theatre and a yajna shala and improve visitor amenities. The Rs 24 crore project is projected for completion by April 2027. At Hariya Khera, an international yoga and wellness centre is coming up on 70.8 hectares of land. This project, worth Rs 149 crore, reached 88% completion in July. Additional initiatives worth Rs 4.3 crore include village tourism infrastructure at Pura Mahadev, alongside development works at Trilok Teerth Dham and Parshuram Temple. Development work has officially concluded at Shah Mal Samadhi Sthal in Baraut, formally recognising the district’s pivotal role in the 1857 Uprising. As Baghpat officially steps into its 30th year since being carved out of Meerut on Sept 17, 1997, the district stands ready to welcome travellers seeking a seamless blend of archaeology, faith, wellness and freedom movement history.
Decades of archaeological excavations have revealed that Baghpat sits on the eastern periphery of Harappan civilisation. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Meerut | Silver Rate in Meerut | Bank Holidays in Meerut | Public Holidays in Meerut | Meerut AQI | Weather in Meerut | Petrol Price in Meerut | Diesel Price in Meerut | CNG Price in Meerut | LPG Price in Meerut Stay updated with the latest Meerut news. Baghpat’s appeal as a tourism destination is anchored in its rich, multi-layered past. Believed to be linked to Vyaghraprastha—one of the five historic villages sought by Lord Krishna for the Pandavas—the district holds profound significance for epigraphers and history enthusiasts alike. KK Sharma, archaeologist and head of the history department at Chaudhary Charan Singh University, noted that Sinauli has continuously served as a treasure trove of historical evidence, validating the area’s deep antiquity. To translate this historical wealth into a thriving visitor experience, several mega-projects are currently underway across the district. Beyond ancient history and mythology, Baghpat’s modern heritage is also being integrated into the tourism roadmap. Shah Mal led a fierce armed resistance against East India Company forces in the area, ultimately sacrificing his life along with numerous local villagers. Tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh emphasised that govt’s goal is to ensure modern infrastructure matches Baghpat’s immense historical and spiritual footprint. Local stakeholders, including Amit Rai Jain of Culture and History Association, have lauded the integrated approach, noting that it is high time the district’s archaeological, religious and historical potential was fully realised. Download the TOI App.
Barnawa, historically identified as Varnavat, is tied to the legendary Lakshagriha (house of lac) episode from the Mahabharata.