Uttar Pradesh is emerging as a hub for religious and spiritual tourism, with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announcing that the state welcomed 46 crore tourists last year alone.
Speaking at his official residence on World Tourism Day, Adityanath expressed optimism that the upcoming Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj will attract over 40 crore devotees.
"The state is a hub for religious, spiritual, heritage, and eco-tourism, drawing visitors from around the world," he said. "In 2023 alone, more than 46 crore tourists visited the state."
Adityanath attributed the growth in the tourism sector to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasising that tourism not only enhances the state’s cultural heritage but also plays a crucial role in generating employment opportunities.
"In terms of spiritual tourism, we have the Ramayana Circuit, Krishna Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, and Jain Circuit, among others," he noted. "Today, Baba Vishwanath Dham in Kashi is attracting crores of devotees, while Ayodhya, Vrindavan, Gokul, and Barsana have become global tourist hotspots."
The Chief Minister highlighted the state's increasing prominence as a global tourist destination, particularly for eco-tourism and sites related to Buddhism and Jainism. He pointed out that locations like Sarnath, Kushinagar, Shravasti, Kaushambi, and Sankisa are drawing Buddhist devotees from around the world.
Furthermore, Adityanath emphasised the importance of Jain tourism, noting that Ayodhya is the birthplace of many Jain Tirthankaras, and Kushinagar remains a revered site for Jain pilgrims.
In addition to spiritual tourism, he underscored the state's rich heritage offerings, including the Lakshmibai Fort in Jhansi, Kalinjar Fort in Banda, Fatehpur Sikri in Agra, and the Imambara in Lucknow. "Forts in Prayagraj, Ramnagar Varanasi, and Chunar in Mirzapur further contribute to the state's historical significance," he said.
Adityanath also mentioned the growth of eco-tourism in the state, citing destinations such as Dudhwa, Chuka, Katarniaghat, Hastinapur, and Okhla Bird Sanctuary, which attract nature lovers.
"Under the 'double engine' government, Uttar Pradesh is fully committed to enhancing tourists' convenience," he stated, adding that the state's infrastructure—including road, rail, water, and air connectivity—is further boosting its appeal as a tourism hub.
Looking ahead, Adityanath said he anticipates significant participation in the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, where more than 40 crore devotees from around the globe are expected to gather.
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