The much-anticipated opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is set to transform the region economically. A global brokerage firm Jefferies Report predicts that the temple will attract a staggering 50 million visitors each year, significantly boosting the local economy.
Economic Impact
Highlighted as a major religious and economic milestone, the temple’s inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi marks the emergence of a new significant tourist destination in India. Jefferies estimates a potential $10 billion investment in the area, encompassing a new airport, updated railway station, improved road connectivity, and other infrastructure developments. This massive makeover will likely spark further economic activities, including new hotels and businesses.
Benefits
As Ayodhya evolves, sectors like hotels, airlines, hospitality, FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods), travel services, and construction materials are expected to grow substantially.
Major Pilgrimage Destination
Encompassing nearly 70 acres, the main pilgrimage site is designed to accommodate about a million devotees at once. Daily visitors are anticipated to increase from 100,000 to 150,000.
Boost to Religious Tourism
India’s religious tourism sector, already attracting 10-30 million visitors annually to various sites, is set to expand significantly with Ayodhya’s improved infrastructure and accessibility.
From Sleepy Town to Global Hotspot
With this transformation, Ayodhya is poised to shift from a quaint town to a major global destination for religious and spiritual tourism. The resulting economic and religious migration will benefit various industries.
Tourism’s Growing Economic Contribution
Tourism’s contribution to India’s GDP, significant even before the pandemic, is expected to grow further, with forecasts suggesting an increase to $443 billion by 2033.
Travel Industry’s Response
Travel service providers like Indigo, Air India, Spicejet, Akasa Air, and IRCTC are introducing new flights and tour packages to Ayodhya, making it more accessible than ever.
Potential Beneficiaries in Hotel and Travel Sectors
Companies like Indian Hotel Company Limited, EIH in the hotel sector, and ITC, Jubilant Foodworks, Britannia Industries in the FMCG and QSR space are expected to benefit from this surge in tourism. Airlines and travel agencies like Inter Globe Aviation (Indigo), SpiceJet, and IRCTC are also likely to see growth.
Hotel Boom in Ayodhya
Ayodhya is experiencing a hotel construction boom, with 73 new hotels planned, 40 of which are already underway. This includes projects by major chains like IHCL, Marriott International, Wyndham, and OYO Rooms, significantly increasing the city’s accommodation capacity.
This expansion in hospitality infrastructure is essential to support the influx of tourists and pilgrims expected in the coming years.
List of Other Attractions in Ayodhya Spiritual City
Ayodhya, a city steeped in history and spirituality, offers numerous attractions for visitors:
Ram Janmabhoomi: The birthplace of Lord Ram, this site holds immense religious significance.
Hanuman Garhi: A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, believed to protect Ayodhya.
Saryu River: A holy river in Ayodhya, perfect for peaceful walks and spiritual reflection.
Kanak Bhawan: A temple known for its exquisite architecture, dedicated to Lord Ram and Sita.
Tulsi Smarak Bhawan: A memorial to poet Tulsidas, who wrote the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem about Lord Ram’s life.
Ram Ki Paidi: A series of ghats on the banks of the Saryu River, ideal for religious rituals and evening aartis.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Ayodhya is about 8 km away. However, with the development of a new airport in Ayodhya, direct flights from major cities are expected.
By Train: Ayodhya is well-connected by rail. The Ayodhya Railway Station is the main station serving the city, with several trains from different parts of India.
By Road: Ayodhya has good road connectivity. Buses, taxis, and private vehicles can easily reach the city from various parts of Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states.
Local Transport: Once in Ayodhya, auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis are available for local travel and sightseeing.
Read Also:
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- Ayodhya News: Air India Express Launches New Direct Flights from Bengaluru and Kolkata
- Discover the New Maharishi Valmiki International Airport in Ayodhya
