Uttar Pradesh emerging as a global hub for religious tourism under CM Yogi Adityanath’s vision

Lucknow : 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. Religious tourism is emerging as a significant driver of economic development and cultural exchange. To maximize its potential, experts stress the need for world-class infrastructure, seamless road and air connectivity, enhanced security, and exceptional services at religious sites.

Uttar Pradesh holds a pivotal position in religious tourism, not only in the country but also in the world. The state is home to Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Shri Ram, revered as the epicenter of faith for Hindus worldwide. The divine Braj land, where Radha-Krishna performed the Raas Leela, where Lord Krishna played with ‘Gval baal’ (cowherds), encompasses Mathura, Barsana, Nandgaon, and Govardhan, all located in Uttar Pradesh.

Apart from this, almost every district or legislative constituency in Uttar Pradesh hosts religious sites that attract hundreds of visitors daily, with numbers often reaching to thousands on special occasions.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who also serves as the Peethadheeshwar of Gorakshpeeth in Gorakhpur, is dedicated to leveraging Uttar Pradesh’s religious tourism potential. Every year, lakhs of devotees come to offer Khichdi to Guru Gorakhnath in the fair held for about a month from Makar Sankranti in the Gorakhnath temple premises itself. This year alone, approximately 15 lakh people visited the temple on the day of Makar Sankranti, with numbers expected to rise as the fair continues.

The Yogi government, with support from the central government, has prioritized the development of religious sites. A prime example is the under-construction grand temple of Ramlala in Ayodhya, slated for completion in 2025. With a century-old relationship between Gorakshpeeth and Ayodhya, Yogi Adityanath 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 thousands of crores in progress. Several projects are already complete, while others are nearing conclusion, aiming to restore Ayodhya to its historical glory as Saptpuri. Similarly, the recently completed Shri Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi has drawn an annual footfall of nearly 10 crore visitors, and projects like Vindhyadham and Nath Corridor are underway.

The Chief Minister actively participates in cultural festivities such as Ayodhya’s Deepotsav, Kashi’s Dev Deepawali, Barsana’s Holi, and Mathura’s Krishna Janmashtami, further boosting the visibility and appeal of these destinations.

The Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, the world’s largest religious gathering, is another highlight of Uttar Pradesh’s religious tourism. CM Yogi is committed to ensuring a smooth, safe, and grand execution of this event. His recent visit to Prayagraj and review meetings for the Mauni Amavasya bathing festival reflect his dedication.

With millions of devotees expected to attend, the Mahakumbh is set to significantly impact the state’s economy. Temporary employment for lakhs of individuals is anticipated, boosting local businesses and creating opportunities for vendors, artisans, and service providers.