States » EastPosted at: Sep 16 2026 7:11PM


West Bengal plans makeover of 135 heritage sites to boost tourism

Kolkata, Sep 16 (UNI) The West Bengal tourism department has launched an initiative to showcase the state’s historical heritage as part of its tourism map, with plans to develop and promote 135 monuments and historic buildings across the state.
The department signed an agreement with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to implement the initiative on Wednesday.
Tourism Minister Shankar Ghosh, Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs Purnima Chakraborty and senior officials from the concerned departments were present at the signing ceremony.
Under the project, the state’s historic structures and monuments will be developed in a manner that makes them more accessible and attractive to tourists.
The plan goes beyond restoration and beautification, with the government seeking to highlight the history and cultural heritage associated with each site.
Light-and-sound shows and cultural programmes are also proposed at the selected locations.
These initiatives are expected to provide visitors with information about the historical significance of the monuments and the cultural traditions associated with them, rather than limiting the experience to sightseeing.
A joint team comprising officials of the state tourism department and the ASI will be formed to oversee the project.
The team will work on the development of the heritage sites, improvement of tourism-related facilities and implementation of the plans through coordination between the Centre and the state.
The two sides are also considering a revenue-sharing arrangement under which profits generated from the tourism projects will be shared between the state tourism department and the ASI.
The state is simultaneously looking to expand river tourism.
Ghosh said the government was currently in the process of procuring four new vessels for river-based tourism activities.
The tourism department is also holding discussions with the Indian Railways to introduce new tourism services in the state. The proposed initiative is expected to use the tagline “Palace on Wheels” and offer a different tourism experience to residents and visitors.
The projects are part of the state government’s broader plan to diversify tourism beyond conventional destinations and promote its historical, cultural and river-based attractions.
UNI SAG CDS
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