Hulas Khera may be UP’s first rural tourism site

LUCKNOW: If all goes well, Hulas Khera village near Mohanlalganj here - an archaeological site where excavations unearthed a cultural sequence beginning from the pre-NBPW (Northern Black Polish Ware) era up to medieval periods - is going to be UP’s first rural tourism site.

Site transformation is a part of the tourism department’s much touted Rural Tourism Policy aimed at bringing the state’s rural pockets on the tourism map. On June 10, the state government had given the nod to the policy and had assured to release `1 cr ore for the development of tourist spots in the shortlisted areas.

Officials said the tourism department has shortlisted Hulas Khera as the best suited site. “It’s the best suited site for rural tourism. Promoting tourism will bring some prosperity to this village and neighboring areas,” an official said. The State Archaeological Department had discovered the site in 1974 and termed it as one of the highly potential archaeological sites.

In the excavation work that lasted for some 6 years, the excavators found artifacts from the beginning of pre-Northern Black Polish Ware (NBPW) era (around 3,000 years ago).

They also unearthed pottery, coins, terracotta images and brick structures. A gold leaf image of Kartikeya, God of War, according to Hindu mythology was among the most important findings at the site.

Officials have also approached the district administration to check the feasibility of the project. Project Hulas Khera, broadly includes the illumination of the area, construction of connecting roads, basic amenities including toilets & guest houses and construction of a food court to facilitate tourists.

“We have inspected the site and found it highly suitable for developing it as rural tourism site. Regarding illumination and other basic amenities, we would be co-ordinating with the departments concerned after getting further clearance of the tourism department,” said Raj Shekhar, district magistrate.

Amrit Abhijat, DG Tourism, said, the tourism department is working on the report received from the district administration.