Uttar Pradesh Tourism showcased the Buddhist Circuit and the state’s spiritual heritage at the JATA Tourism Expo Japan 2026 held between 24 and 27 September at Tokyo Big Sight in Tokyo, Japan. The event featured a one-day conference, a two-day business-to-business travel mart, and various networking sessions with global tourism stakeholders.
Uttar Pradesh Pavilion and Dignitary Involvement
The Uttar Pradesh Tourism pavilion operated throughout the four-day event with four co-exhibitors representing various sectors of the state’s tourism industry. The stall was inaugurated by H.E. Ms. Nagma Mohamed Mallick, Ambassador of India to Japan, alongside Mr. Suman Billa, Additional Secretary and Director General of the Ministry of
Tourism, India; Dr. R. K. Suman, Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Tourism; and Ms. Udita Gaurav, First Secretary at the Embassy of India in Tokyo. The pavilion focused on pilgrimage circuits, spiritual destinations, cultural traditions, cuisine, crafts, eco-tourism, and heritage experiences.
Key Destinations and Cultural Events Highlighted
The delegation emphasized Uttar Pradesh as the cradle of the Buddhist Circuit featuring sites associated with the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. The state also promoted other major destinations including Ayodhya, Mathura-Vrindavan, Varanasi, Agra, Lucknow, Prayagraj, and Kannauj. Prominent cultural events such as Dev Deepawali, Mahakumbh, Rangotsav, and Taj Utsav were also spotlighted during the exposition
to underline the state’s diverse cultural calendar.
Official Statements on Uttar Pradesh’s Tourism Strategy
Mr. Jaiveer Singh, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism & Culture for the Government of Uttar Pradesh, stated that the state is redefining global tourism with its rich cultural and spiritual heritage. He highlighted that participation in the JATA Tourism Expo 2026 has strengthened international relations and opened avenues for new tourism collaborations. He invited global travelers to experience the Buddhist Circuit and the Spiritual Triangle, affirming the state’s readiness to welcome visitors with extensive opportunities.
Connectivity and Global Positioning of Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh is connected to global travelers primarily through international airports located in Delhi and Lucknow. The state leveraged
this logistical advantage to position itself as a premier global destination for spiritual and pilgrimage tourism at the expo. The participation at JATA Tourism Expo Japan 2026 aligned with the event theme, ‘The Changing Nature of Travel,’ underscoring Uttar Pradesh’s diverse offerings spanning faith-based tourism, ecological experiences, and cultural heritage.
