As 2025 approaches, Uttar Pradesh’s iconic religious destinations, including Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Mathura, are experiencing an overwhelming influx of devotees, eager to start the New Year with spiritual blessings. With heightened security measures and efficient crowd management, these holy cities are prepared to handle the large number of pilgrims visiting temples and sacred sites.
Ayodhya, in particular, is witnessing a massive surge in visitors, especially due to the newly consecrated Ram Temple, which has drawn thousands seeking Lord Ram’s blessings. Hotel accommodations in Ayodhya and nearby Faizabad have been fully booked, with the temple trust extending “darshan” hours to accommodate the growing crowd.
Ankit Mishra, a local hotel owner, confirmed that all rooms have been reserved through January 15, while Ramakant Tiwari, a local priest, noted that many devotees visit on the first day of the English calendar year for a spiritual start, particularly seeking blessings from Ram Lalla.
This New Year holds extra significance, marking the first since the Ram Temple’s consecration. Ayodhya’s Senior Superintendent of Police, Rajkaran Nayyar, assured that strong security measures have been put in place at key locations such as the Ram Temple, Hanumangarhi, and Guptar Ghat.
Varanasi, another major pilgrimage site, is also preparing for an unprecedented number of visitors. To manage the expected crowd, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple has suspended “sparsh darshan” (touching the deity) from December 31 to January 1, allowing devotees to view the idol from a distance. With an estimated five to seven lakh visitors, extensive security arrangements have been made, including 45 duty points, along with deployment of NDRF, Water Police, and PAC teams at strategic locations. The temple area has been divided into five sectors, with 12 quick reaction teams on standby.
In Mathura and Vrindavan, the crowd is equally large, and temple authorities have urged the elderly, sick, and children to avoid peak hours. Munish Sharma, the manager of Banke Bihari Temple, advised visitors to assess the crowd situation before visiting to avoid inconvenience. In response to the large influx, the temple has implemented a one-way entry and exit system, and security personnel have been increased. Additionally, heavy vehicles have been banned, and e-rickshaws have been introduced to help transport visitors between temples. Special parking arrangements have been made to accommodate the influx of devotees arriving from various routes.
With the New Year marking a significant spiritual event, these religious destinations in Uttar Pradesh are set to provide a meaningful and well-organized experience for the thousands of devotees flocking to seek blessings.
