Ahead of the upcoming festivals, cities renowned for religious tourism in Uttar Pradesh, such as Varanasi, Mathura, and Ayodhya, are witnessing a remarkable surge in pilgrim visits. Varanasi, in particular, recorded an unprecedented influx of 95.63 lakh pilgrims in March, flocking to seek blessings at the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Following the construction of a new corridor, Varanasi’s religious sites have experienced heightened footfall, with the Kashi Vishwanath Temple emerging as a top destination for religious tourists in the state.
The surge in religious tourism is reflected in increased donations, with contributions reaching Rs. 83.34 crores for the fiscal year, marking a notable 42.43% rise from the previous year. In March alone, donations surpassed all previous records, totalling Rs. 11.14 crores, indicative of a resurgence in pilgrimage travel post-pandemic and a persistent spiritual fervour among devotees.
In Ayodhya, the newly constructed Ram Mandir and Hanumangarhi witnessed over two lakh visitors daily in March, setting the stage for the grand Navratri festival. With the recent consecration of the Ram Lalla idol, preparations are underway to make the festival a momentous occasion, expected to draw a significant influx of religious tourists from across the country. The increase in footfall has led to a rise in daily flights at the Ram Lalla airport, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for pilgrims.
Similarly, Mathura-Vrindavan experienced a surge in crowds preceding Holi, with some pilgrims seeking accommodation in Agra due to limited space in local establishments. Prakhar Mishra, Director of Tourism, anticipates a substantial surge in tourist arrivals ahead of the festive season, attributing it to the newly constructed religious sites and corridors. These developments not only aim to attract tourists and boost local markets but also foster community development and empowerment, generating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth across Uttar Pradesh.
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