UP Government to Transform Kampil where Draupadi was born into a Major Religious Tourism Destination under Mahabharata Circuit
The Uttar Pradesh government, which has been consistently working to position the state as a hub of religious, cultural, and heritage tourism, has now set its sights on Kampil in Farrukhabad district. Known historically as Kampilya, this ancient town is deeply rooted in both the Mahabharata and Ramayana eras, and is revered as the capital of the Panchala Kingdom as well as the birthplace of Draupadi.
To showcase this priceless legacy, the state has approved a ₹4 crore project under the “Mahabharata Circuit” aimed at improving amenities, restoring heritage sites, and enhancing tourist facilities. Officials emphasize that the initiative will not only attract pilgrims and history enthusiasts but also generate local employment and boost small businesses.
Linking Heritage, Faith, and Development
The highlight of Kampil is the Draupadi Kund, regarded as the birthplace of Draupadi and the site of her swayamvar. The restoration project will focus on beautification, modern amenities like toilets, drinking water, rest sheds, tourist information centres, signage, improved lighting, and the construction of signature gateways to give the site a unique identity.
A senior Tourism Department official explained: Kampilya was once a glorious capital and played a prominent role in both the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
We aim to revive its spiritual and cultural glory. We want to connect Draupadi Kund with other local attractions such as the Rameshwar Nath Temple and ancient Jain shrines, creating a comprehensive cultural route,” said a tourism department official
The Rameshwar Nath Temple holds its own unique significance. Historians and devotees believe its Shivling is the same one brought back by Lord Ram from Lanka after defeating Ravan, linking Kampil with both epic traditions.
Equally important is the ancient Digambara Jain Temple, associated with the 13th Tirthankar Lord Vimalnath, believed by many to be his birthplace. This draws a steady flow of Jain pilgrims, further strengthening the town’s religious fabric.
Archaeological and Historical Significance
Archaeological studies reveal that Kampil has been continuously inhabited since at least the 7th century BCE. Excavations have unearthed Painted Grey Ware (PGW) and Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW), terracotta figurines dating to the 2nd century BCE, and stone remains from the 8th–10th centuries CE.
In 1878, Alexander Cunningham identified Kampil with the ancient city of Kampilya, and a local mound is now a centrally protected monument.
Officials stressed that the restoration will be carried out “with sensitivity to ecology and local community needs,” ensuring that heritage preservation goes hand in hand with sustainable development.
A Broader Tourism Push
This project aligns with the state’s larger mission of developing theme-based tourism circuits that combine religious, historical, and rural attractions.
The government is also working to promote Farrukhabad’s traditional zardozi embroidery and textile crafts, with efforts underway to secure a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Farrukhabad prints and create a linked textile ecosystem.
Tourism data reflects growing potential: Farrukhabad saw 25.47 lakh visitors in 2024, with around 11 lakh tourists already visiting in the first quarter of 2025. Authorities have set a target of 35–40 lakh visitors this year, expecting the Kampil project to play a key role in reaching that milestone.
An official from the Tourism Department summed up: This is not only about showcasing our epic-era heritage but also about generating livelihoods, supporting artisans, and boosting the economy.
Every step in developing Kampil adds to our vision of Uttar Pradesh as a leading global destination for religious and cultural tourism.”
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