)
The grand opening of the Ram temple in Ayodhya is expected to significantly boost tourism in the town, attracting over 50 million tourists annually. This figure surpasses the footfall of popular religious tourism destinations such as the Golden Temple in Amritsar and the Tirupati temple. Ayodhya’s transformation into a major tourist hotspot is attributed to the extensive infrastructure development, including the construction of a new airport, improved railway station, enhanced road connectivity, and the creation of a new township, which collectively amount to a USD 10 billion makeover.
According to a report by brokerage Jefferies, the comprehensive revitalization of Ayodhya is likely to have a multiplier effect, stimulating the growth of new hotels and other economic activities. The report suggests that the town has the potential to attract more than 50 million tourists annually, surpassing the footfall of renowned tourist destinations worldwide, such as Vatican City and Mecca. The existing religious tourism segment is regarded as the largest in India, with several popular centers attracting annual footfall of 10-30 million visitors, despite infrastructural limitations. Therefore, the development of Ayodhya as a new religious tourist center, with improved connectivity and infrastructure, is expected to have a significant economic impact.
Tourism is a crucial contributor to India’s GDP, with a contribution of USD 194 billion in FY19. It is projected to grow at an 8% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) to reach USD 443 billion by FY33. However, the tourism-to-GDP ratio in India, currently at 6.8%, is lower compared to many large emerging and developed economies. The Jefferies report emphasizes that Ayodhya’s transformation could serve as a template for boosting tourism in India, as the USD 10 billion makeover is set to elevate the ancient city into a global religious and spiritual tourist destination.
The first phase of Ayodhya’s new airport has already commenced operations, with a capacity to handle 1 million passengers. By 2025, additional domestic capacity and an international terminal are expected to be operational, accommodating 6 million passengers. The railway station has been upgraded to double its capacity to handle 60,000 passengers per day. In addition, the development of a 1,200-acre greenfield township and improved road connectivity are underway.
Ayodhya currently has 17 hotels with 590 rooms, and there are plans for the construction of 73 new hotels, of which 40 are already in progress. Major hotel chains such as Indian Hotels, Marriott, and Wyndham have signed deals for hotels in the town, while ITC is exploring opportunities. Oyo also intends to add 1,000 hotel rooms in Ayodhya.
Jefferies highlights that India possesses unique advantages as a global tourist destination, including geographical diversity, cultural heritage, and a rich assortment of art, music, and cuisine. The Ram temple in Ayodhya is expected to unlock the tourism potential of the country, which is ranked as the 7th most beautiful country by Forbes in 2022. India is also home to 42 UNESCO World Heritage sites and is one of the three countries in the world with both hot and cold deserts. Additionally, it ranks 10th in the Medical Tourism Index.
Overall, the grand opening of the Ram temple in Ayodhya is poised to transform the town into a major tourist hub, attracting millions of visitors annually. The extensive infrastructure development and the town’s unique cultural and historical significance position Ayodhya as a compelling destination for both domestic and international tourists.
Ayodhya, a sacred city located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, is set to become India’s biggest tourist hotspot. Renowned for its historical and religious significance, Ayodhya is considered the birthplace of Lord Rama, a revered Hindu deity. The city attracts millions of devotees each year who come to visit the iconic Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
With the recent construction of the grand Ram Temple, Ayodhya is now poised to witness a significant surge in tourism. The temple, built on the site where the Babri Masjid once stood, showcases stunning architecture and intricate craftsmanship. This monumental structure, along with the existing attractions like Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, and Nageshwarnath Temple, will offer an enriching experience for visitors.
The government has also initiated various development projects to enhance Ayodhya’s tourism potential. These include the construction of a state-of-the-art airport, improved road connectivity, and the establishment of modern accommodation facilities. Additionally, plans are underway to develop Ayodhya’s riverfront and promote cultural festivals to provide a holistic experience for tourists.
Ayodhya’s transformation into a prominent tourist destination will not only boost the local economy but also create employment opportunities for the residents. Furthermore, it will offer a unique chance for visitors to witness the confluence of history, spirituality, and architectural marvels, making Ayodhya a must-visit place for both domestic and international tourists.
Disclaimer: Only the headline and content of this report may have been reworked by Newsearay, staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed. The Article was originally published on Source link
)
)
)