Buoyant From Maha Kumbh's Success, Uttar Pradesh Plans New Religious Tourism Circuit Between Varanasi and Prayagraj

With strong backing from the central government, Uttar Pradesh is prioritising the development of religious sites to boost tourism across the state.

Given its rich spiritual heritage, the state has immense potential to attract pilgrims and tourists to destinations like Ayodhya, Mathura-Vrindavan, Varanasi, Chitrakoot, Vindhyawasini Dham in Mirzapur, and Prayagraj.

The ongoing Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj is expected to significantly contribute to the state's economy, drawing nearly 40 crore devotees and facilitating trade worth Rs 2 lakh crore.

A recent statement highlighted that the event will generate temporary employment for thousands, benefiting local businesses, artisans, vendors, and service providers.

Ayodhya has emerged as a major global pilgrimage site following the construction of the Ram Temple. The city now sees a daily influx of 1 to 1.5 lakh visitors, surpassing several other religious destinations in the country.

Similarly, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has transformed tourism in Varanasi, with over 10 crore devotees and tourists visiting the city in 2023 alone.

As part of its broader vision, the Uttar Pradesh government, based on recommendations from NITI Aayog, plans to create a new religious tourism circuit connecting Varanasi and Prayagraj.

This initiative will include Prayagraj, Varanasi, Chandauli, Ghazipur, Mirzapur, and Bhadohi, directly impacting the lives of more than 2.38 crore people.

Beyond tourism, the state is also advancing infrastructure and industrial development. Plans are in motion to establish an industrial corridor between Ayodhya and Ramsnehi Ghat, along with knowledge parks and industrial hubs in Prayagraj and Varanasi, with support from the central government.

With these initiatives, Uttar Pradesh aims to strengthen its religious tourism sector while simultaneously boosting economic growth and job creation across the state.