India’s spiritual heartland, Uttar Pradesh, has earned global recognition after being awarded the Best Spiritual Tourism Destination at the 2025 Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards in Lisbon, Portugal. The honour celebrates the state’s ancient religious heritage and its growing appeal as a global destination for faith-based travellers seeking deeper spiritual experiences.
The award was accepted by Puneet R Kundal, India’s Ambassador to Portugal, during a ceremony at the Troia Design Hotel. This global recognition reinforces Uttar Pradesh’s status as the “Land of Faith and Divinity,” spotlighting its sacred sites, vibrant festivals, and centuries-old traditions that continue to draw millions of devotees and culture enthusiasts from across the world.
A Global Acknowledgement of Faith and Heritage
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh called the award a proud moment for the people of Uttar Pradesh. “This award reflects our state’s unmatched spiritual and cultural heritage that continues to inspire travellers worldwide,” he said. “It strengthens our mission to preserve sacred traditions while creating world-class experiences for pilgrims and tourists.”
Uttar Pradesh has long stood at the intersection of history, spirituality, and culture. From the chants along the ghats of Varanasi to the divine aura of Ayodhya and Mathura, the state’s sacred geography tells the story of India’s timeless spiritual evolution.
The Heart of India’s Spiritual Map
Uttar Pradesh is a melting pot of multiple faiths—Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Islam—all leaving indelible marks on its cultural fabric.
The Hindu pilgrimage circuit includes Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama; Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world; Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace and playground of Lord Krishna; and Chitrakoot, known for its Ramayana connections. These destinations together make Uttar Pradesh the foremost destination for spiritual seekers.
The state’s Islamic heritage shines through sites like the Dargah of Salim Chishti in Fatehpur Sikri, Atala Masjid in Jaunpur, and Baba Barchi Bahadur Dargah in Aligarh—symbols of the region’s deep-rooted syncretic culture.
For followers of Sikhism, Uttar Pradesh is equally sacred, with historic gurdwaras such as Guru Ka Tal in Agra, Gurdwara Dera Sahib, and Guru Gobind Singh Ji Gurdwara in Lucknow marking key moments from Sikh history.
The state is also integral to Buddhism, hosting significant sites like Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon; Kushinagar, where he attained Parinirvana; Sravasti, home to Jetavana Monastery; and Kapilvastu, believed to be his birthplace. These sacred sites make Uttar Pradesh a central part of the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit.
Why the Award Matters
The Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards (SSLHLA), established in 2013, are among the most prestigious global recognitions in the luxury hospitality and lifestyle industry. Winners are chosen by a panel of industry experts for their excellence in service, innovation, and cultural impact.
This recognition not only honours Uttar Pradesh’s incredible diversity and devotion but also elevates India’s position in global faith tourism. It acknowledges how spiritual travel in India is evolving—blending ancient traditions with modern comfort and accessibility.
A Spiritual Journey for the World
From serene ghats and ancient temples to vibrant Sufi shrines and peaceful Buddhist monasteries, Uttar Pradesh offers a soulful journey through centuries of devotion and cultural unity. Its spiritual magnetism continues to inspire visitors, reaffirming that faith and humanity can coexist beautifully.
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