Uttar Pradesh aims to enhance its tourism offerings by introducing catamaran and mini cruise services, offering visitors to Ayodhya, Kashi, and Mathura a unique post-monsoon experience. The Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation has initiated these services to highlight the scenic beauty of these historic cities from the water. The state government has taken all necessary measures to ensure a smooth rollout of the new operations. After the monsoon season, Ayodhya and Kashi will soon resume their catamaran services, while Prayagraj will launch mini cruises, providing tourists with a fresh view of the cities’ rich cultural and historical heritage.
Modern catamarans have been provided to Ayodhya and Kashi by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), with electric boats designated for Prayagraj. These vessels have been assigned to the state’s tourism authority to enhance the region’s appeal. The air-conditioned catamaran in Ayodhya can comfortably hold 50 passengers, while Prayagraj’s two mini cruise boats will each accommodate 30, offering a tranquil and immersive journey along the gentle river.
Additionally, six motorboats, each with space for six passengers, along with two rescue boats for emergencies, have been allocated to the tourism department. The state is adopting a public-private partnership (PPP) model to effectively manage these services, with tenders already issued and regular boat operations anticipated to commence after the monsoon subsides.
These water-based tours are part of Uttar Pradesh’s broader strategy to boost tourism. By offering a new way to discover the cities, the initiative seeks to create job opportunities, encourage eco-friendly travel, and attract more visitors from around the world to the state’s cultural and historical attractions.