Mumbai: India’s heritage and spiritual tourism sector recorded unprecedented growth in 2024–25, with pilgrimage circuits across the country witnessing record footfalls, according to the India Tourism Data Compendium 2025. The figures underline the enduring appeal of spiritual travel in India, which continues to be a cornerstone of domestic tourism while also attracting international visitors seeking cultural immersion.
The Char Dham circuit in Uttarakhand reported its highest ever visitor numbers, with millions of devotees making the journey to Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. The Kashi Vishwanath corridor in Varanasi, redeveloped in recent years, drew large crowds from across India and abroad. The newly inaugurated Ram temple in Ayodhya became a major attraction, with footfalls exceeding expectations in its first year of operation. Bodh Gaya in Bihar, a centre of Buddhist pilgrimage, also saw increased international visitors, particularly from Southeast Asia.
Local economies have benefited significantly from this surge. In Varanasi, hotels and guesthouses reported occupancy rates above 90 per cent during peak seasons, while restaurants and transport operators saw sharp increases in demand. Artisans producing brassware and silk textiles noted higher sales, with many visitors purchasing souvenirs linked to religious traditions. In Uttarakhand, homestay owners along the Char Dham route reported steady bookings, while small businesses providing trekking and transport services thrived. Pilgrimage tourism has provided a stable source of income in regions such as Rudraprayag, with visitors staying longer and spending more on local services.
Officials attribute the growth to improved infrastructure and government initiatives. Roads leading to major pilgrimage sites have been widened, sanitation facilities upgraded and digital booking systems introduced to manage crowds. These measures are designed to make spiritual journeys more accessible and comfortable, while also preserving the sanctity of the sites.
International visitors have also contributed to the rise. Buddhist pilgrims from Thailand, Myanmar and Sri Lanka have flocked to Bodh Gaya and Sarnath, while Christian visitors from Europe and North America have shown interest in Kerala’s church circuits. India’s unique blend of spirituality and culture has drawn global travellers, with experiences such as meditation at Bodh Gaya seen as distinctive and irreplaceable.
Concerns have emerged about the impact of rising numbers. Fragile heritage structures and ecosystems face risks, with overcrowding at sites such as Kedarnath raising issues of waste management and environmental stress. Conservationists emphasise that tourism growth must be balanced with preservation, warning that without adequate infrastructure and conservation measures, the gains could be undermined.
Case studies highlight the potential of pilgrimage tourism to drive regional development. In Ayodhya, the construction of the Ram temple has spurred investment in hotels, transport and retail, creating jobs and boosting local businesses. In Uttarakhand, the Char Dham circuit has led to improvements in road connectivity and healthcare facilities, benefiting residents as well as visitors. In Bihar, international interest in Buddhist sites has encouraged the state government to invest in airports and hospitality infrastructure.
Analysts note that pilgrimage tourism reflects broader social changes. Travel is increasingly seen as a form of self‑expression and spiritual fulfilment, rather than a purely religious obligation. Social media has amplified this trend, with platforms such as Instagram and YouTube influencing destination choices. Younger travellers are particularly drawn to experiences they can share online, whether trekking to Kedarnath or visiting the Ram temple.
The compendium concludes that heritage and spiritual tourism will remain a key driver of growth in India’s travel economy. With global interest in cultural and spiritual experiences expected to rise, India is well positioned to consolidate its gains if infrastructure and policy support continue. For businesses, policymakers and communities alike, the message is clear – pilgrimage tourism is not only expanding in scale but also diversifying in nature, laying the foundation for sustained growth in the years ahead.
