Ayodhya, the holy city in Uttar Pradesh, is poised to become a major tourist attraction with the recent revamp and consecration of the Ram Mandir. The ambitious makeover, costing an estimated Rs 85,000 crore, is expected to yield significant tax revenue for the state, surpassing Rs 25,000 crore. According to a report, Ayodhya's potential to draw tourists could even rival renowned landmarks like the Golden Temple in Amritsar and Vatican City. 

Revamping Ayodhya: A Gateway to Tourism Growth

The consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir, presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marked a significant milestone for Ayodhya. Prior to the inauguration, extensive efforts were made to transform the city, including the development of a new airport, a revamped railway station, improved road connectivity, and the construction of a township. These renovations, combined with the cultural and religious significance of the Ram Mandir, have positioned Ayodhya as a potential global tourism hotspot.

Tourism's Economic Impact on India

Tourism plays a vital role in India's economy, contributing approximately 7% of its GDP. However, compared to other emerging and developed economies, India's tourism sector lags behind by up to 5 percentage points. The revamp of Ayodhya presents a unique opportunity to bridge this gap and boost the country's tourism revenue. With an estimated $10 billion (Rs 85,000 crore) invested in the makeover, the potential tax revenue for Uttar Pradesh is projected to reach Rs 25,000 crore.

Ayodhya's Tourism Potential: A Magnet for Visitors

The report by brokerage firm Jefferies highlights the immense tourism potential of Ayodhya following its transformation. It suggests that the city could attract over 50 million tourists annually, surpassing footfalls at popular destinations like the Golden Temple and Vatican City. Currently, the Golden Temple witnesses an estimated 30-35 million visitors each year, while the Tirupati temple in Andhra Pradesh receives 25-30 million visits. Globally, Vatican City attracts around 9 million tourists annually, and Mecca in Saudi Arabia welcomes approximately 20 million visitors.

Uttar Pradesh's Economic Boost from Ram Mandir

The development of Ayodhya's tourism infrastructure is expected to have a multiplier effect on Uttar Pradesh's economy. The recently operational phase 1 of the city's airport can handle up to 1 million passengers, with plans to expand to 6 million by 2025. The railway capacity has also been doubled to accommodate 60,000 passengers per day. Furthermore, the construction of new hotels is underway, with 73 in the pipeline, including deals signed by prominent hospitality brands such as Indian Hotels, Marriott, Wyndham, and potential involvement from ITC and Oyo.

Tourism Expenditure Projections: A Boon for Uttar Pradesh

Multiple agencies have projected substantial tourism growth for Ayodhya and Uttar Pradesh in the coming years. These projections suggest that the total expenditure by tourists in the state could surpass the Rs 4 lakh crore mark by the end of the year. This projected growth is expected to significantly contribute to the tax revenue generated by Uttar Pradesh. Ayodhya's transformation into a global tourism spot, akin to Mecca and Vatican City, holds the promise of substantial economic gains for the state.

Unlocking Ayodhya's Tourism Potential

The extensive revamp of Ayodhya's infrastructure, combined with the religious and cultural significance of the Ram Mandir, creates a unique opportunity to position Ayodhya as a must-visit destination for both domestic and international tourists. The city's rich history, spiritual heritage, and newly developed amenities will undoubtedly attract visitors seeking a deeper connection with India's cultural tapestry. The potential influx of tourists presents an opportunity for local businesses to thrive, creating employment and fostering economic growth in the region.

As tourists from around the world flock to Ayodhya, the city's rich heritage and cultural significance will shine, placing it firmly on the global tourism map. With this significant boost to tourism, Uttar Pradesh is poised to reap the economic benefits and secure its place as a premier tourist destination in India.