Tourism works gather pace in former Chandela’s capital, Mahoba, under the Swadesh Darshan 2.O

Lucknow/Mahoba: February 10, 2026: Following the unprecedented tourism development of Ayodhya, Kashi, Sangam City and Mathura, in line with the vision of PM Modi, Uttar Pradesh Tourism is now focusing on state’s Bundelkhand region to revive its historical prominence. Nestled within this region, Mahoba is known for its rich heritage and cultural legacy, shaped by the valour and sacrifice of legendary warriors Alha and Udal, making it one of the most historically significant districts of the state.

On the directions of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, under the Swadesh Darshan 2.O scheme, an integrated tourism development project at a total cost of ₹24.98 crore is being implemented at full pace, in which the 10 per cent amount has been released to UPPCL, Banda, which has been designated as the executing agency for the entire project. The initiative aims to strengthen tourism infrastructure through the development of key facilities, including a Sun Interpretation Centre, the development of the Triangular Garden, the construction of entrance gates, and the installation of signage. The target is to complete the entire project approximately by the end of 2026.

Informing about the ambitious plan, Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said, “Bundelkhand is not just a region; it is a living chapter of our civilisational history and the land of sacrifice of legendary warriors Alha and Udal. Guided by the vision of Hon’ble PM Modi and under the leadership of CM Yogi, initiatives such as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 are reviving Mahoba’s historical legacy while strengthening its tourism infrastructure."

"With nearly 28 lakh visitors recorded in 2025, Mahoba’s growing prominence is evident. This project will further improve visitor facilities and help preserve the region’s heritage, identity, and cultural pride for future generations,” he said.

The major attraction of the project is the Sun Interpretation Centre, being developed in an area of 4,210 square metres. The centre will interpret the scientific significance and cultural narratives associated with the Sun in Indian tradition, with a distinctive roof design symbolising the ‘Eight Prahars’ of a day: ‘Usha, Purvanha, Madhyanha, Aparanha, Sayankal, Pradosha, Nishitha, and Triyama’. A specially designed sundial will indicate time through the first rays of sunlight, while eco-friendly features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting, grass pavers, and integrated waste management systems will reinforce the project’s focus on sustainable and green tourism in the centre.

Moreover, the Sun Interpretation Centre will house a series of thoughtfully curated galleries where an Indian and Western religious beliefs gallery will present the story of Surya alongside Helios, who is the personification of the Sun in ancient Greek religion, through murals and sculptures. Another gallery will highlight major Sun temples of India, including the Konark Sun Temple and Martand Sun Temple, supported by architectural models and visual elements. A dedicated Sun and Astronomy Gallery will explain astronomical principles, including the role of the Sun in determining seasons, calendars, and celestial movements. The experience will conclude with a Sun and Astrology Gallery, interpreting astrological concepts and the connection of the Sun with human life, enhanced through immersive 3D projections and sound effects for an engaging visitor experience, explained Amrit Abhijat, ACS Tourism, Culture and Religious Affairs.

Enhancing the visual and cultural appeal of the project, the development of a scenic triangular garden has started along Shivtandav Road, about four kilometres from the Sun Interpretation Centre, to promote green tourism. The site will feature a majestic statue of Surya Dev with seven horses in the centre, envisioned as a prominent cultural landmark for the region. Complementing this, three grand entrance gateways are being constructed to welcome visitors, each topped with a finely crafted sandstone sculpture of Surya Dev riding a chariot drawn by seven horses, together strengthening Mahoba’s visual identity and reinforcing its emergence as a distinctive heritage tourism destination.

Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture and Religious Affairs, Amrit Abhijat said, “Bundelkhand’s rich history and knowledge traditions deserve wider visibility. The Mahoba project under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 is designed to create learning-oriented tourism spaces that connect heritage with science and traditional wisdom. Facilities like the Sun Interpretation Centre will particularly benefit students and young travellers, while ensuring that the region’s identity is preserved through sustainable tourism development,” he said.

With projects like these, the Tourism Department is steadily repositioning Bundelkhand on Uttar Pradesh’s tourism map, blending heritage, learning, and sustainability to create destinations that are meaningful for visitors and beneficial for local communities.