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In 2024, Uttar Pradesh witnessed a remarkable surge in tourist numbers, reaching a record 476.1 million visitors between January and September. This increase suggests the state is on track to surpass the 480 million tourists it welcomed in 2023. The rise in tourism is a testament to Uttar Pradesh's successful efforts in promoting its varied attractions, from historical landmarks to religious sites.
Among these attractions, Ayodhya stands out, having attracted a staggering 135.5 million domestic tourists and 3,153 international visitors in the same period. This remarkable influx, marking a 70% increase in religious tour bookings, has been largely attributed to the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the newly inaugurated Ram Temple. Ayodhya's enhanced infrastructure and its spiritual significance have made it a magnet for devotees nationwide, establishing the city as a religious tourism powerhouse.
The city's prominence in the religious tourism sector is expected to grow even further during the temple's anniversary celebrations in January 2025. Tourism experts foresee this event further boosting Ayodhya's status as India's spiritual heartland.
Despite Ayodhya's rise, the Taj Mahal in Agra continues to draw significant attention, especially from international tourists. In 2024, the monument saw 125.1 million visitors, including 924,000 from abroad. This represents a notable increase from the previous year and underscores the Taj Mahal's enduring global appeal. However, it experienced a slight decline in domestic visitors, with 193,000 fewer Indians visiting compared to the previous year.
Other spiritual destinations in Uttar Pradesh also reported growth in visitor numbers:
- Varanasi welcomed 62 million domestic and 184,000 international tourists.
- Mathura saw 68 million domestic visitors and 87,229 from overseas.
- Prayagraj attracted 48 million visitors.
- Mirzapur had 11.8 million visitors.
The Buddhist Circuit in Kushinagar was not left behind, drawing 1.62 million visitors, including 153,000 international tourists, indicating the state's broad appeal beyond its Hindu spiritual sites.
This tourism renaissance in Uttar Pradesh, highlighted by Ayodhya's newfound status as the most visited destination in 2024, surpassing even the iconic Taj Mahal, underscores the state's dynamic and diverse appeal. With Ayodhya at the forefront of a spiritual tourism boom, Uttar Pradesh is set to solidify its place as a leading destination for travelers seeking both spiritual enrichment and cultural experiences.
