As the summer vacation season kicks off, cities renowned for their religious significance in Uttar Pradesh are experiencing an unprecedented surge in pilgrims. Varanasi, Mathura, and Ayodhya, crucial hubs for religious tourism, are witnessing a remarkable influx of devotees, setting the stage for an extraordinary season of spiritual journeys and cultural festivities.
Varanasi, the city of divine charm, has seen an exceptional turnout, with a staggering 95.63 lakh pilgrims flocking to seek the blessings of Kashi Vishwanath in the month of March alone. This record-breaking influx signifies a profound spiritual fervor among devotees, drawing them from far and wide.
Preparations are underway for the inaugural Navratri festival at the Ayodhya temple, following the consecration of the revered Ram Lalla idol earlier this year. Anticipation is high for this grand occasion, expected to attract a significant influx of religious tourists from across the nation.
Similarly, in Ayodhya, the newly constructed Ram Mandir and Hanumangarhi have become magnets for devotees, with over two lakh visitors each day during March. The anticipation surrounding the upcoming Navratri festival further adds to the fervor, promising a momentous celebration of faith and devotion.
In Mathura-Vrindavan, the surge in crowds began well before the festival of Holi and shows no signs of abating. Pilgrims, seeking accommodation, have extended their reach to neighbouring Agra due to the overwhelming demand for lodging in hotels, ashrams, and guesthouses.
Responding to the heavy footfall for darshan at Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, the recently operational airport has ramped up its services. Presently, 24 daily flights operate from Ayodhya, with routes to key destinations including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and newly initiated services to Hyderabad.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, with its newly constructed corridor, has emerged as a top destination for religious tourism in Uttar Pradesh. The surge in tourists visiting Varanasi has led to a significant rise in donations to the temple, reaching a remarkable Rs. 83.34 crores for the fiscal year, marking a 42.43% increase compared to the previous year.
Prakhar Mishra, Director Tourism, expressed optimism regarding recent developments, citing the impact of infrastructure enhancements such as the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, the Ram Lalla Temple in Ayodhya, and the Mathura-Vrindavan Corridor. These projects are poised to not only attract tourists nationwide but also boost local economies, particularly those associated with the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative.
Mishra emphasized the transformative potential of these initiatives, foreseeing a ripple effect in the local economy, leading to increased demand for locally produced goods and services. This, in turn, is expected to create a surge in employment opportunities, fostering community development and empowerment.
In essence, the surge in religious tourism in Uttar Pradesh heralds a revival in pilgrimage travel post-pandemic, underscored by an enduring spiritual fervor and a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage. As devotees embark on their sacred journeys, they seek blessings and contribute to the region’s socio-economic vitality, ushering in a new era of prosperity and cultural exchange.
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