“Gujarat’s government has launched a new scheme on June 14, 2025, to promote its rich heritage sites, targeting a surge in domestic and international tourists. With significant investments in infrastructure and preservation, the initiative aims to enhance visitor experiences at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Dholavira and Rani ki Vav, while boosting the state’s economy through sustainable tourism.”
Gujarat’s Bold Move to Elevate Heritage Tourism
On June 14, 2025, the Gujarat government announced a transformative scheme to promote its heritage sites, aiming to position the state as a global leader in heritage tourism. The initiative builds on the success of Gujarat’s tourism sector, which saw over 21 lakh visitors to its major heritage sites in 2023-24, as reported by the Gujarat Tourism Department. With an investment of over ₹500 crore, the scheme focuses on enhancing infrastructure, accessibility, and visitor experiences at iconic locations, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Dholavira, Rani ki Vav, Ahmedabad’s Heritage City, and Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park.
The new scheme introduces several key measures. First, it allocates ₹200 crore for upgrading tourism facilities at Dholavira, a 5,000-year-old Indus Valley Civilization site, following a doubling of visitors from 1.41 lakh in 2022-23 to 2.32 lakh in 2023-24. Upgrades include modern visitor centers, guided tours, and eco-friendly accommodations to enhance the experience while preserving the site’s integrity. Similarly, Rani ki Vav in Patan, which welcomed 3.83 lakh tourists in 2023-24, will see ₹50 crore invested in improved lighting, signage, and digital guides to showcase its intricate stepwell architecture.
The scheme also emphasizes lesser-known heritage sites, such as the Sun Temple at Modhera and Adalaj ni Vav, with investments of ₹25 crore and ₹15 crore, respectively, to improve accessibility and amenities. The restoration of historical forts, including Uparkot Fort (₹80 crore) and Lakhpat Fort (₹30 crore), is another cornerstone, aiming to attract history enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Additionally, the government plans to develop Hafeshwar village, recently honored as India’s Best Tourism Village in the heritage category on World Tourism Day 2024, with ₹12 crore for new facilities.
To promote these sites globally, the scheme includes a robust digital marketing campaign, leveraging social media and partnerships with international tourism boards. Local communities will be engaged through skill development programs, enabling them to offer authentic cultural experiences, such as handicraft workshops and traditional Gujarati cuisine tours. The initiative aligns with Gujarat’s Tourism Policy 2021-25, which emphasizes sustainable growth and socioeconomic development through tourism.
The state government is also integrating technology, such as augmented reality (AR) tours at select sites, to provide immersive experiences for younger travelers. Events like heritage walks, cultural festivals, and collaborations with the Archaeological Survey of India during World Heritage Week (November 19-25) will further raise awareness. The scheme is expected to create 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, boosting local economies while preserving Gujarat’s cultural legacy.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from the Gujarat Tourism Department, recent government announcements, and credible media reports. Data on tourist numbers and investments is sourced from official statements and may be subject to updates. Readers are advised to verify details with official sources for the latest information.