Ayodhya emerges as a premier religious tourism destination in India

Saturday, December 30, 2023

The upcoming inauguration of the Ayodhya Ram Temple in Indian most sacred ancient city Ayodhya, located in Uttar Pradesh, coupled with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to this ancient temple town, Ayodhya unveil development projects, holds significant implications for the tourism and travel industry in Ayodhya and the broader Uttar Pradesh region.

The opening of new projects worth Rs 15,700 crore, including infrastructure like an international airport, a greenfield township, and a redeveloped railway station, is poised to transform Ayodhya into a major tourist destination.

Ayodhya get better airline connectivity

The inauguration of the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport is a pivotal development for Ayodhya’s connectivity. The presence of a modern airport will facilitate easier access for domestic and international tourists, boosting the travel and tourism industry of the region and the state as well.  

Air India’s new Ayodhya route

Air India Express is set to commence flights from Ayodhya to Bengaluru and Kolkata starting January 17, 2024. As anticipation builds for the official opening of Ayodhya Ram Mandir on January 22, the airline aims to enhance connectivity to and from Ayodhya. The inaugural flight on the Bengaluru-Ayodhya route will depart at 08:05 and return at 15:40. The Kolkata route will also be operational, catering to both tourists and devotees. Ayodhya’s Maharishi Valmiki International Airport is poised to become a crucial hub with increased accessibility.

IndiGo new flight from Mumbai to Ayodhya

IndiGo has announced the launch of direct flights between Mumbai and Ayodhya starting January 15, 2024. This expansion follows the earlier announcement of operations from the soon-to-be-inaugurated Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport in Ayodhya, with flights from Delhi and Ahmedabad. The new routes underscore IndiGo’s commitment to enhancing connectivity, promoting tourism, and facilitating economic growth in the region. Ayodhya, with its historical and cultural significance, is attracting attention as a key destination, especially with the imminent inauguration of the Ram Mandir.

In a historic moment, an IndiGo pilot warmly welcomed passengers on the airline’s first flight to Ayodhya from Delhi. The inaugural journey marks a significant milestone, highlighting Ayodhya’s growing prominence as a key destination. The event reflects IndiGo’s commitment to expanding connectivity to culturally and historically significant locations in India.

Ayodhya marks history

Ayodhya is poised to make history with the inauguration of Ram Mandir on January 22, 2024, through the consecration ceremony of ‘pran pratishtha.’ The event is expected to draw around 8,000 devotees, including 1,500-1,600 eminent guests. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will grace the occasion, alongside RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat. Invitations extend to national party chiefs, former prime ministers, industrialists, and prominent figures from cinema, showcasing the inclusivity of this historic event. The influx of devotees is anticipated to boost local businesses and contribute to the country’s economic growth, marking the dawn of glorious days.

New Railway Station Connects Ayodhya to rest of India

The newly redeveloped Ayodhya railway station further enhances transportation infrastructure, providing convenience for travelers and contributing to the overall tourism experience. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the redeveloped Ayodhya railway station, now named Ayodhya Dham Junction Railway Station, on Saturday. Accompanied by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, he flagged off two Amit Bharat and six Vande Bharat trains from the station. Modi, inspecting the amenities on the decked-up Amrit Bharat Express, interacted with child volunteers. The Phase I redevelopment, costing over Rs 240 crore, enhances the station’s infrastructure and services for improved passenger experience.

Opening New Roads to Ayodhya

The inauguration of four newly redeveloped roads—Rampath, Bhaktipath, Dharampath, and Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Path—underscores the government’s commitment to improving accessibility. These pathways not only facilitate pilgrims and tourists reaching the temple but also contribute to the overall beautification and development of Ayodhya as a pilgrimage and cultural destination.

Hotel Industry Sets Boom in Ayodhya

As Ayodhya emerges as a sought-after destination with the inauguration of the Ram Mandir, budget hotels and guesthouses are poised for increased demand. Offering affordable accommodation options, these establishments cater to the budget-conscious traveller, providing a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. As pilgrims and tourists flock to Ayodhya, the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of these lodgings make them an attractive choice for those seeking affordability without compromising on their travel experience.

Tourism Potentiality in Ayodhya

The tourism potential of Ayodhya is likely to see a significant upswing, drawing visitors from across India and potentially from other countries. The inauguration of the Ram Temple and the associated infrastructure projects adds to the historical and cultural significance of Ayodhya, making it a compelling destination for those seeking spiritual and cultural experiences. Ayodhya is undoubtedly is major tourist attraction in Northern part of India. Some of the prominent tourism destinations in Ayodhya are Ram Katha Park, Mani Parvat, Treta ke Thakur, Bahu begum Ka Maqbara, Nageshwar Nath Temple, Tulsi Smarak Bahwan Museum, Gulab Bari, Ram Ki Paidi, Kanak Bhawan, Dashrath Mahal, Amava Ram Mandir, Sugreev Quila, Hanuman Garhi Fort and may others.

Opening of Ram Mandir

The inauguration ceremony of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, scheduled for January 22, 2024 is expected to attract a large number of devotees, pilgrims, and tourists. The tourism and travel industry in Ayodhya is gearing up for this influx, with hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality services preparing to cater to the surge in demand.

The Ayodhya temple inauguration and the associated development projects have the potential to reshape Ayodhya as a prominent religious tourism destination. The enhanced infrastructure and connectivity are pivotal for the growth of the tourism and travel industry in the region, offering new opportunities for economic development and cultural exchange.

Image: Indian Express

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• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurates the Ayodhya airport and stations

• IndiGo halts city-Bengaluru flights for 3 months, adds Ayodhya routes

• IndiGo introduces direct Mumbai-Ayodhya flights from Jan 2024

• New daily flights from Gwalior to Delhi and Bengaluru by Air India express

• From Ayodhya, IX 1769 Is scheduled to depart for Delhi at 1250 hours