Uttar Pradesh: In a strategic move to enhance religious tourism and stimulate local economies, the Uttar Pradesh government has allocated over ₹400 crore in its 2025-26 budget for the development of key spiritual destinations. Ayodhya and Mathura, two cities of profound religious significance, are set to receive ₹150 crore and ₹125 crore respectively, aimed at bolstering tourism infrastructure and attracting a greater influx of visitors.
The allocation for Ayodhya underscores the government’s commitment to transforming the city into a premier pilgrimage hub. This investment is poised to support ongoing projects, including the construction of the grand Ram Temple, which has already begun to draw millions of devotees since its opening in January 2024. The temple’s inauguration marked a significant milestone, with Ayodhya welcoming approximately 2.4 million visitors within just 12 days of its opening. This surge in tourism is anticipated to continue, positioning Ayodhya as one of the most visited pilgrimage sites globally.
Mathura, revered as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is also set to benefit from the government’s focused investment. The ₹125 crore allocation aims to enhance the city’s infrastructure, ensuring a more enriching experience for pilgrims and tourists alike. Improvements are expected to include better connectivity, upgraded facilities at key religious sites, and the development of amenities that cater to the needs of both domestic and international visitors.
Beyond Ayodhya and Mathura, the budget outlines significant investments in other spiritual centers. Naimisharanya is slated to receive ₹100 crore, while Chitrakoot has been allocated ₹50 crore. These funds are designated for the development of tourism infrastructure, aiming to elevate these sites to prominent positions on the religious tourism map. Additionally, ₹100 crore has been earmarked for the construction of roadside amenities along major state and national highways, enhancing the overall travel experience for pilgrims journeying to these sacred destinations.
The Uttar Pradesh government’s emphasis on religious tourism is not solely about infrastructure development; it is also a strategic economic initiative. The influx of pilgrims and tourists contributes significantly to the local economy, creating employment opportunities and fostering the growth of ancillary industries such as hospitality, retail, and transportation. The record-breaking tourist footfall in 2024, with over 65 crore visitors including 14 lakh foreign tourists, stands as a testament to the state’s potential as a religious tourism powerhouse.
Finance Minister Suresh Khanna, while presenting the budget, highlighted these achievements and outlined future plans to further strengthen infrastructure and religious tourism. The government’s strategic focus on developing these spiritual centers is expected to not only preserve and promote the rich cultural and religious tourism of Uttar Pradesh but also to drive economic growth and community development across the region.
In conclusion, the Uttar Pradesh government’s substantial investment in the development of Ayodhya, Mathura, and other key religious tourism reflects a comprehensive approach to leveraging spiritual tourism as a catalyst for economic and social advancement. By enhancing infrastructure and visitor amenities, the state aims to attract a larger number of pilgrims and tourists, thereby stimulating local economies and reaffirming its status as a leading destination for spiritual and cultural tourism.
