Uttar Pradesh has been honoured with the Best Spiritual Tourism Destination Award at the prestigious Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards 2025 in Portugal.
The accolade positions UP among the world’s leading spiritual destinations, recognising its profound cultural legacy, sacred heritage, and growing global appeal as the heartland of Indian spirituality.
Puneet R Kundal, Ambassador of India to Portugal, received the award on behalf of UP at a ceremony held at Lisbon.
The recognition marks a proud moment for the state, home to globally revered spiritual centres such as Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura, Prayagraj, and Chitrakoot, which attract millions of pilgrims and visitors each year.
According to a senior official, UP has transformed into a global hub of spiritual, cultural and experiential tourism, seamlessly blending heritage with modern infrastructure under the leadership of chief minister Yogi Adityanath.
Events like Deepotsav in Ayodhya, Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, and Rangotsav in Barsana have not only revived traditional faith-based tourism but also positioned the state prominently on the international tourism map.
UP tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh said, “This award is a reflection of UP’s unmatched spiritual and cultural heritage that continues to inspire global travellers. It reinforces our commitment to preserving sacred traditions while creating world-class experiences for pilgrims and tourists alike.”
The award further cements UP Tourism’s efforts under the Vision Viksit UP @2047 to elevate the state as India’s most preferred tourism destination — where faith, heritage and hospitality come together to create unforgettable experiences for visitors from across the world.