UP's Faith Corridors Redraw Tourism Map: Billions Visit Holy Sites in 2025

• Uttar Pradesh witnessed an unprecedented surge in religious tourism in 2025, with faith corridors connecting Prayagraj, Kashi, Ayodhya, and Mathura becoming major attractions.
• Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj alone drew 66 crore devotees, despite a stampede incident, setting a world record in tourism.
• Government initiatives, including the development of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, and annual Deepotsav, significantly boosted visitor numbers.
• The state recorded over 1.21 billion tourists in the first six months of 2025, with its share in national tourism rising from 13.1% (2016) to 19-20% (2024).
• Beyond major sites, the Buddhist circuit and heritage conservation efforts also contributed to UP's emergence as a top tourist destination, providing economic impetus.

Why It Matters: UP's strategic development of faith corridors and religious sites has transformed it into a global spiritual tourism hub.