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In the aftermath of the highly-anticipated consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir, Ayodhya is set to emerge as India’s foremost tourist destination, attracting an estimated 50 million visitors annually, surpassing renowned religious hotspots like the Golden Temple and Tirupati Temple, according to a report by Jefferies.
The report highlights that the inauguration of the Ram Mandir has spurred significant infrastructure development in Ayodhya, including projects like new airports, a renovated railway station, a township, and enhanced road connectivity. The $10 billion makeover of Ayodhya City is poised to position the town as a hot religious tourism hub, drawing in millions of visitors each year.
Comparatively, Amritsar’s Golden Temple witnesses an annual influx of 30-35 million tourists, while the Tirupati Temple attracts 25-30 million. The projected surge in Ayodhya’s tourism is expected to outpace these figures, rivaling global destinations like Vatican City and Mecca.
Jefferies emphasizes that religious tourism remains the largest segment in India’s tourism industry. Despite existing infrastructure challenges, multiple religious destinations in India already attract 10-30 million tourists annually. The development of Ayodhya as a new religious center, with improved connectivity and infrastructure, is anticipated to have a substantial economic impact.
The report underscores the potential economic benefits for various sectors, including hotels, airlines, hospitality, FMCG, travel ancillaries, and cement. Ayodhya’s Rs 85,000 crore makeover is expected to elevate the ancient city from a “sleepy town” to a global religious and spiritual tourist hotspot.
With the Phase 1 of Ayodhya’s new airport operational, capable of managing 1 million passengers, the city anticipates increased domestic capacity. An international terminal is slated to be operational by 2025, with the capacity to handle 6 million passengers. The railway station has been upgraded, and road connectivity is undergoing improvements, including a 1,200-acre greenfield township.
Hospitality Sector Prepares for Influx
Currently, Ayodhya boasts nearly 17 hotels with 590 rooms, with an additional 73 hotels in the pipeline, 40 of which are already under construction. Leading brands such as Indian Hotels, Marriott, and Wyndham have entered into deals, while ITC and Oyo are exploring opportunities to expand their presence.
Unlocking India’s Tourism Potential
The brokerage concludes that India, with its geographical diversity, cultural richness, heritage sites, and a variety of art, music, and cuisines, is a popular global tourist destination. The addition of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is expected to further unlock India’s vast tourism potential. Forbes listed India as the 7th most beautiful country in 2022, and the nation holds the 10th position on the Medical Tourism Index.
