Uttar Pradesh has experienced a tourism surge, breaking records with an impressive 47.61 crore tourists visiting the state between January and September 2024. Ayodhya, home to the under-construction Shri Ram Temple, has emerged as the state’s most visited destination, surpassing even the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra.
According to the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, Ayodhya alone welcomed 13.55 crore domestic tourists and 3,153 international visitors during this period. The upcoming inauguration of the Ram Temple has played a pivotal role in drawing unprecedented crowds. “The rise in Ayodhya’s tourism is nothing short of phenomenal,” said Rajesh Tiwari, a Lucknow-based travel agent. “We have seen a 70% increase in bookings for Ayodhya tours compared to last year. Devotees and cultural enthusiasts from across the country want to be part of this historic transformation.”
While the Taj Mahal remains a global icon, its tourist numbers have seen a slight decline in domestic visitors, though international arrivals rose from 26,84,825 in 2022-23 to 27,70,340 in 2023-24. The overall domestic tourist count to the Taj Mahal decreased by 1,93,298 compared to the previous year.
“The Taj Mahal is still an essential stop for international tourists,” remarked Suresh Gupta, a tour operator from Agra. “However, domestic travelers now prefer spiritual and culturally significant sites like Ayodhya and Varanasi. People are looking for meaningful travel experiences that connect them to their heritage.”
Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh highlighted the state’s broader tourism success. “The tourism surge is not limited to Ayodhya,” he stated. “Varanasi attracted 6.2 crore domestic tourists and 1.84 lakh foreign visitors. Prayagraj drew 4.80 crore tourists, including 4,790 foreigners. Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, saw 6.8 crore visitors, including 87,229 international tourists. Even Mirzapur recorded 1.18 crore visitors.”
The state’s Buddhist circuit hub, Kushinagar, also saw substantial growth, welcoming 16.2 lakh visitors, including 1.53 lakh international tourists. Agra, despite competition from Ayodhya, received 1.25 crore tourists, including 9.24 lakh foreigners. Tour operators remain optimistic. “We expect even higher numbers with the upcoming Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram Temple,” said Poonam Verma, a tourism consultant from Delhi. “Religious tourism has become a defining factor in Uttar Pradesh’s tourism industry. Events like the Kumbh Mela, along with better infrastructure and connectivity, have boosted travel significantly.”
Industry experts believe that consistent marketing and improved facilities have helped Uttar Pradesh build a strong global tourism presence. “The government’s focus on religious tourism is commendable,” noted Amit Sharma, a hospitality consultant. “We now see better hotels, guided tours, and easier transport options, making the state an attractive destination for all types of travelers.”
Other destinations like Siddharthnagar (86,215 visitors), Lakhimpur Kheri (46.5 lakh), Pilibhit (30.6 lakh), Bijnor (34.4 lakh), and Sonbhadra (19.4 lakh) also contributed to the state’s growing tourism footprint. With the Ram Temple nearing completion and major religious events on the horizon, Uttar Pradesh is poised to strengthen its position as India’s top cultural and religious tourism hub.
