New Delhi: According to figures released on Wednesday by the Uttar Pradesh (UP) tourism department, Ayodhya surpassed Mathura and Varanasi in terms of tourist visits. Reportedly, over 12 crore pilgrims and visitors toured the holy town in the first seven months of 2024.
The surge in Ayodhya’s footfall, particularly after the inauguration of the Ram Temple on January 22 this year, has been a magnet for both domestic and international pilgrims and tourists. The city’s unique religious significance and the long-awaited opening of the Ram Temple have undoubtedly contributed to this increase.
Other religious destinations in the state, such as Mathura, Prayagraj, and Varanasi, have seen considerable increases in attendance; nevertheless, Ayodhya has outperformed all others in terms of footfall.
Mukesh Meshram, Principal Secretary of the Tourism and Culture Department in Uttar Pradesh, provided an update on religious tourism’s growth and influence in the state.
He stated that the holy cities of UP attract travellers from as far as the United States and Canada.
Speaking to the press, he stated that there is a great deal of interest and excitement among the people to visit the Ram Temple and that their long-held desires of visiting Lord Ram’s birthplace are finally coming true.
When discussing the annual Deepotsav festival in Ayodhya, he remarked how the event had garnered global recognition.
“This year, we have set a target of lighting 2.5 million diyas, setting a new world record. Various Ram Lilas from different countries have also been invited to participate in the festival,” he pointed out.
Additionally, there will be a grand procession and cultural showcases.
With a vast number of tourists expected this year, seating galleries are being built along the riverbanks to accommodate them.
Varanasi received 10.5 crore tourists last year, while 5.45 crore people visited it in the first seven months of this year. Similarly, Mathura received 5.5 crore tourists, while Prayagraj received 4.5 crore.
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This reflects the state’s growing appeal as a tourist destination and global interest in its religious and cultural legacy.
The senior bureaucrat also revealed the magnificent preparations for the upcoming 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. He stated that historic temples were being converted into tourist attractions and that a world-class tent city was being built for the occasion, offering a sneak peek into the grandeur of the event.
Mukesh Meshram highlighted the rapid development of several religious and cultural sites, including Mathura, Vrindavan, Chitrakoot, and Naimisharanya.
He stated that the Vindhyavasini Corridor had been completed and that other religious places were also undergoing major renovations.
“Since 2017, development work has been carried out at more than 650 locations in the state,” he informed.
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–IANS
Photo: IANS/CMO
