Flag Hoisting Ceremony Set to Boost Ayodhya’s Religious Tourism

The upcoming flag-hoisting ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on November 25 is poised to significantly enhance religious tourism in the region. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mohan Bhagwat, chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), will attend the event, which marks a milestone in the temple’s development. Since the commencement of construction, Ayodhya has experienced a remarkable influx of visitors, leading to a substantial impact on the local economy.

Officials have reported that approximately ₹2,150 crore has been invested in the Ram temple and related infrastructure projects. This investment has already begun to pay dividends, with Ayodhya contributing 1.5% to the state’s gross state domestic product (GSDP). The city has undergone a transformation from a relatively obscure town to a burgeoning tourism hub, particularly after the Bhumi Pujan ceremony led by Prime Minister Modi on August 5, 2020.

Surge in Tourist Arrivals and Economic Growth

The momentum is expected to continue, with projections indicating that between January and June 2025, around 23 crore tourists will have visited Ayodhya. By the end of this year, that number could rise to 50 crore. With such rapid growth in visitor numbers, state officials anticipate that Ayodhya’s tourism revenue could reach ₹4 lakh crore in the coming years.

The surge in tourism is not only beneficial for the temple but also for the city’s hospitality and service sectors. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, shops, and vendors selling religious items, are experiencing record revenues. To accommodate the increasing number of visitors, over 76 new hotels have recently opened, with major hotel chains such as IHCL, Marriott, Radisson, Kamat, and Lemon Tree making substantial investments.

Future Prospects for Ayodhya’s Economy

Looking ahead, the tourism sector in Uttar Pradesh is projected to evolve into a ₹70,000 crore industry by 2028, with Ayodhya expected to contribute nearly 25% of that total. Currently, temple-related activities have already added approximately ₹1.25 lakh crore to the state’s economy.

As the flag-hoisting ceremony approaches, local officials anticipate an even greater influx of devotees. This influx will not only enhance the temple’s prominence but will also create employment opportunities for local merchants and invigorate small businesses and artisans in the area. Ayodhya’s transition into a major religious tourism destination underscores the ongoing economic development spurred by its cultural significance.