It is not surprising to say that Ayodhya is undergoing a significant transformation into one of India’s most crucial tourist destinations. The anticipated completion of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir attracts a substantial influx of tourists to India in the years ahead. The inauguration ceremony of the renowned Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, took place on January 22, 2024. This event holds immense significance not only from a religious standpoint but is also expected to play a pivotal role in fostering the growth of India’s domestic tourism, helping the economy, and contributing to the overall infrastructure development of the state.
Let’s delve into an analysis of how this development will impact domestic tourism in India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh.
Spiritual Tourism of Uttar Pradesh
The rise in spiritual tourism has brought about a significant transformation in the tourism landscape of Uttar Pradesh (UP). This transformation has led to an enhancement in both physical and digital infrastructure, fostering improved connectivity and sparking a notable surge in travel. Consequently, people are now more inclined to engage meaningfully with the historical sites in the region. The economic impact of pilgrimage tourism is noteworthy, with pilgrims demonstrating a distinct spending pattern compared to conventional tourists.
Foreign tourists, ranking UP as the fifth most visited state in India, have contributed an additional ₹10,500 crore to the state’s economy. This tourism boom positions UP to reap significant economic benefits. As the UP tourism tagline aptly defines, “UP nahi dekha toh India nahi dekha” (If you haven’t seen UP, then you haven’t seen India). In India’s pursuit of achieving this goal, UP is going to play a pivotal role in this growth trajectory.
The impact of pilgrimage tourism on the economic growth of a destination cannot be overlooked. Pilgrims, in contrast to traditional tourists, tend to allocate more resources towards accommodation, transportation, household industries, artifacts, and local goods. This dynamic serves as a catalyst for revitalizing local economies, promoting infrastructure development, and creating new employment opportunities.
Atul Parakh, CEO of Bigul, highlights, “Ayodhya’s Ram Temple inauguration is anticipated to be a momentous occasion with enormous possible economic implications. The increasing number of tourists visiting Ayodhya is driving up demand for lodging, including hotels and resorts.”
How it will Boost Tourism in the Country?
In a monumental religious event, the grand opening of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22 not only marked a significant spiritual occasion but also gave a significant boost to domestic tourism in India. According to a report by brokerage firm Jefferies, the estimated $10 billion makeover of Ayodhya, including a new airport, revamped railway station, township, and improved road connectivity, is expected to have a multiplier effect. This transformation is likely to lead to the development of new hotels and other economic activities in the region. Analysts suggest that various sectors such as hotels, railways, consumption, and aviation will reap influential benefits from the surge in tourism.
The enhancements in air connectivity, the introduction of special trains for pilgrimages, and improved road transportation to Ayodhya are deemed advantageous for the aviation, rail, and road infrastructure industries. The comprehensive $10 billion makeover, covering aspects like a new airport, revamped railway station, township, improved road connectivity, and more, is anticipated to generate a multiplier effect in and around Ayodhya. The economic implications are significant, with tourism expected to witness a surge alongside increased economic and religious migration to Ayodhya.
Adding to the positive economic outlook, a report from the State Bank of India (SBI) supports the surge in Uttar Pradesh Tourism. According to the SBI report, the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and various tourism initiatives may contribute radical developments to Uttar Pradesh’s tax revenue, potentially reaching Rs 20,000-25,000 crore. The report predicts a doubling of tourist spending in the state in the current year compared to 2022, underscoring the completion of the Ram Mandir and proactive measures taken by the UP government.
How To Reach Ayodhya
Ayodhya is getting ready to emerge as one of the popular tourist destinations in India. For those who think of visiting Ayodhya, here is how:
- By Air: The airport in Ayodhya, known as Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya Dham, is a bustling hub that caters to both Ayodhya and Faizabad, two vibrant cities in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. Additionally, travelers can conveniently access this airport from Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Prayagraj, and Varanasi Airports.
- By Train: Ayodhya boasts excellent connectivity with nearby railway stations as well as major stations across northern India. Situated on the Mughalsarai-Lucknow line of the Northern Indian Railway, Ayodhya Railway Station serves as a pivotal hub. Commuters can avail themselves of a multitude of daily train services, such as the Lucknow Express, Varanasi Doon Express, and Delhi Faizabad Express.
- By Road: Ayodhya lacks a strong connection with its neighboring cities, although buses are available to the nearest bus station. Varanasi is approximately 130 km away from Lucknow, 200 km from Varanasi itself, 160 km from Allahabad, 140 km from Gorakhpur, and around 636 km from Delhi. For those looking to travel from Ayodhya, there are various options such as tempo and taxi services.
If you are someone who is planning a trip to Uttar Pradesh, take a look at the Best Itinerary for Uttar Pradesh!