Kanpur: The state govt’s policy to develop ancient and religious places along with urban infrastructure is now yielding visible results across the district. From Bithoor—once neglected—to the historic temples of Ghatampur and Bilhaur, a wave of development has significantly enhanced the region’s appeal.The transformation has led to a surge in tourist footfall, with over 66 lakh visitors recorded in the 2025–26 period. Bithoor, known for its historical and spiritual significance, has emerged as a major attraction following development works worth approximately Rs 75 lakh. These include strengthening of ghats, construction of RCC ramps, improved flooring and installation of mural art.The riverfront has become particularly attractive at night, with high-mast lighting illuminating the banks of the Ganga. Façade lighting at prominent Shiva and Hanuman temples has further enhanced the visual appeal.Massacre Ghat has also witnessed a facelift, with newly constructed gazebos becoming popular relaxation spots and selfie points for visitors. Additional works worth Rs 93.24 lakh, including tourist shelters, changing rooms, sandstone flooring and a grand welcome gate, have improved facilities for pilgrims and tourists alike.Further, the beautification of the Panki Hanuman Temple is set to be undertaken at an estimated cost of Rs 184 lakh, with the project blueprint already approved.Development works have also been completed at several other religious sites. At Ujiari Devi Temple in Kalyanpur, facilities such as a passenger rest hall, CC road, toilets, boundary wall and high-mast lighting have been created at a cost of Rs 116 lakh. Similar upgrades have been carried out at Ram-Sita Temple in Akbarpur (Rs 44.49 lakh) and Hanuman Temple in Kudni (Rs 95.77 lakh), including construction of halls, restrooms, paving, solar lighting, and landscaping.In Ghatampur, Kushmand Devi Temple has been equipped with a pilgrim hall, interlocking paving, and solar lights at a cost of Rs 91 lakh, while Maa Bhadrakali Temple has received amenities worth Rs 98.65 lakh. Development at Rawal Devi Temple and Barahi Devi Temple has also enhanced visitor facilities through construction of rest houses, sanitation units, solar lighting, and landscaping.District magistrate Jitendra Pratap Singh said the administration aims to establish Kanpur Nagar prominently on the tourism map. “In line with govt directives, major mythological and historical sites from Bithoor to Ghatampur and Bilhaur are being revitalised,” he said.District tourism officer Arijit Ojha added that the upgradation of key religious and historical sites is not only boosting tourism but also benefiting local residents economically.
