Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram and the site of the newly inaugurated Ram temple, is poised to become one of India’s top tourist attractions. According to a report by Jefferies, the town could attract up to 50 million domestic and international visitors annually, generating revenues of $10 billion for the local economy . The report also suggests that Ayodhya could set a template for India’s tourism boost, as it offers a unique blend of culture, heritage, spirituality and development.
Some of the factors that make Ayodhya an attractive destination are:
- The Ram temple: The grand temple, which was inaugurated on January 22, 2024, after decades of legal and political disputes, is a marvel of architecture and engineering. It covers an area of 67 acres and has a height of 161 feet. It is adorned with intricate carvings, sculptures and paintings depicting the life and teachings of Lord Ram. The temple also has a museum, a library, a meditation hall and a cultural center .
- The Ramayana circuit: Ayodhya is part of the Ramayana circuit, which comprises 15 destinations across India that are associated with the epic. The circuit aims to promote religious tourism and cultural exchange among pilgrims and tourists. Some of the other destinations in the circuit are Chitrakoot, Nashik, Hampi, Rameshwaram and Sri Lanka .
- The infrastructure development: The government has invested heavily in improving the infrastructure and amenities in Ayodhya to cater to the influx of visitors. A new airport, named after Lord Ram, has been built to connect Ayodhya with major cities in India and abroad. The road and rail connectivity has also been enhanced, along with the provision of parking facilities, public transport, sanitation and security. The town has also witnessed a surge in hotel and restaurant businesses, creating employment opportunities for the locals .
- The cultural diversity: Ayodhya is not only a sacred place for Hindus, but also for Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs. The town has several historical and religious monuments that reflect its rich and diverse heritage. Some of these are the Hanuman Garhi temple, the Kanak Bhawan temple, the Nageshwarnath temple, the Ram ki Paidi ghat, the Shri Digambar Jain temple, the Gurudwara Brahma Kund Sahib and the Buddhist stupa .
Ayodhya is a town that has witnessed the highs and lows of history, but has emerged as a symbol of hope and harmony. It is a place where faith meets culture, where tradition meets modernity, where history meets future. It is a place that invites everyone to experience its beauty and spirituality.