Uttar Pradesh is dexterously emerging as a major global tourism hub under the current Yogi Adityanath regime.
The religious tourism domain is emerging as a significant driver of economic development and cultural exchange in India.
To maximise its potential, experts stress the need for world-class infrastructure, seamless road and air connectivity, enhanced security, and exceptional services at religious sites.
According to a report by the Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi Chamber of Commerce, over 60 percent of domestic travel in India is directed towards religious destinations.
In this respect, the birthplace of Lord Ram, Ayodhya in UP is revered as the epicenter of faith for devout Hindus worldwide, while the divine Braj land of Lord Krishna encompasses Mathura, Barsana, Nandgaon, and Govardhan areas.
Almost every district in UP hosts religious sites that attract hundreds of visitors daily, with numbers touching tens of thousands on special occasions.
UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath, who also serves as the Peethadheeshwar of the reverred Gorakshpeeth in Gorakhpur, is dedicated to leveraging UP’s religious tourism potential.
This year, approximately 1.5 million people visited the temple on Makar Sankranti, with numbers expected to rise as the fair continues through the auspicious period.
With a century-old bond between Gorakshpeeth and Ayodhya, Yogi envisions transforming Ayodhya into the world’s most beautiful religious tourist destination, embodying the ideals of Lord Ram.
Ayodhya is witnessing rapid development, with nearly three dozen projects worth several thousands of crores in progress.
Similarly, the recently completed Shri Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi has drawn an annual footfall of nearly 100 million, while projects like Vindhyadham and Nath Corridor are underway.
The Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, the world’s largest religious gathering, is another highlight of UP’s religious tourism.
With more than 400 million devotees expected to attend the Maha Kumbh from January 13 to February 26, the state’s economy is estimated to log a boost of Rs 2 trillion across various sectors.