Ayodhya, renowned for its rich cultural and religious heritage, has emerged as the top tourist destination in Uttar Pradesh. The city has attracted a staggering 11 crore visitors in the first six months of 2024. This impressive figure surpasses the previous leader, Varanasi, which drew 4.61 crore tourists during the same period.
The rise in Ayodhya’s tourism appeal highlights the city’s growing significance in the travel sector, surpassing Varanasi’s long-held position as a prime tourist hub.
TOP TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN UTTAR PRADESH
Following Ayodhya and Varanasi, other major destinations in Uttar Pradesh include Prayagraj, Mathura, and Agra.
- Prayagraj welcomed 4,53,94,772 domestic visitors and 3,668 international tourists in the first half of 2024.
- Mathura attracted 3,07,02,513 domestic tourists and 49,619 foreign visitors.
- Agra and Lucknow also saw significant tourist numbers, with 69.8 lakh and 35 lakh visitors, respectively.
These figures reflect the state’s widespread appeal and its status as a premier destination for both domestic and international travellers.
RECORD-BREAKING TOURISM FIGURES
According to the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, a total of 32,98,18,122 people visited the state in the first six months of 2024. This number includes 32,87,81,348 domestic tourists and 10,36,774 international visitors. This is a notable increase from the 31.86 crore tourists recorded for the entire year of 2022.
The rise in tourism underscores Uttar Pradesh’s growing prominence as a global travel destination.
FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS AND PLANS
The state’s tourism sector continues to expand with new developments. Shringverpur, an important site in the Ramayana Circuit linked to Lord Ram, is set for significant upgrades. Plans are underway to develop parking facilities, civic amenities, and eateries in preparation for the 2025 Maha Kumbh, further enhancing the region’s appeal.
TOURISM MINISTER’S STATEMENT
Jaiveer Singh, UP’s Tourism and Culture Minister, emphasized the impressive growth in tourist numbers. He stated, “The rise in tourism figures speaks volumes about Uttar Pradesh’s increasing popularity as a global destination. The numbers for the first six months of 2024 are almost equal to the total tourist footfall recorded in 2022.”
The surge in tourism to Ayodhya and other key destinations in Uttar Pradesh highlights the state’s expanding appeal. With ongoing developments and strategic plans, Uttar Pradesh is set to solidify its position as a leading travel destination in India and beyond.
