Ayodhya Sees Surge in the Pilgrimage Tourism After Ram Temple Opening, Local Businesses Record Sales with More Growth Expected from Dhwaj Ceremony

Published on November 25, 2025

Ayodhya, considered the historical heart of Uttar Pradesh, has witnessed a high growth in pilgrimage tourism with the construction of the Ram Temple, adding not only to the spiritual significance but also turning out to be a strong economic factor for the region. With the inauguration of the Ram Temple, Ayodhya has emerged as an international hub for religious tourism, attracting millions of pilgrims and tourists from different parts of India and even abroad.

More pilgrims coming in has now translated into a substantial increase in the pace of business locally, especially around major religious sites like Rampath, Kanak Bhawan, and Hanumangarhi Marg. Local traders and shopkeepers are experiencing record sales, reflecting the positive impact of the temple on Ayodhya’s tourism industry. This has had a trickledown effect in most retail, hospitality, transport, and food services sectors, with attendant benefits to small businesses and service providers.

Economic Boost for Local Businesses and Traders

Businesses across Ayodhya have seen a sharp rise in demand for religious souvenirs, prasad, clothing, and other goods that cater to pilgrims and tourists. Jitendra Kumar Gupta, who runs Shri Gayatri Bhog Prasad Bhandar on Hanumangarhi Marg, shared that his daily turnover jumped from Rs 3,000 to Rs 10,000, reflecting the tourism boom in the region. Gupta credits the Ram Temple’s construction and the improved infrastructure for the surge in his business, and he anticipates even more growth with upcoming events like the Dhwaj ceremony.

This increased tourism in Ayodhya is not only benefiting small businesses but also strengthening the local economy, creating more jobs and opportunities for local entrepreneurs. As the flow of pilgrims and tourists continues to grow, local service industries such as transportation, guides, and accommodation providers are also seeing improved business prospects.

Infrastructure Development Enhances Ayodhya’s Tourism Experience

The rise in pilgrimage tourism in Ayodhya is closely linked to the city’s infrastructure improvements. Upgraded roads, enhanced public transport, and the development of tourism facilities have made it easier for visitors to navigate the city and experience its religious sites. The improved infrastructure not only enhances the pilgrim experience but also attracts leisure travelers, contributing to the growth of Ayodhya’s tourism sector.

With the Ram Temple now a central attraction, Ayodhya is becoming an increasingly accessible destination for both domestic and international visitors. The city’s tourism infrastructure, including the development of new hotels, tourist information centers, and shops, is ensuring that pilgrims and tourists enjoy a seamless and comfortable experience, further driving the growth of Ayodhya’s tourism economy.

Dhwaj Ceremony Set to Further Elevate Ayodhya’s Tourism Impact

Looking ahead, the Dhwaj ceremony, one of the most significant temple events, is expected to further scale up tourism in Ayodhya. The flag-hoisting ceremony is expected to draw even more visitors to the region, leading to an increase in footfall and spending on tourism services. This event will not only attract pilgrims but also tourists interested in experiencing the cultural significance of the ceremony, further contributing to local business growth.

The Dhwaj ceremony will likely create new economic opportunities for Ayodhya’s tourism industry, with tourism-related businesses gearing up to handle the influx of visitors. This increased demand will drive higher occupancy rates in hotels, more foot traffic in markets, and higher sales for local retailers offering religious goods and souvenirs.

Ayodhya’s Growing Role as a Major Pilgrimage and Tourism Destination

The surge in pilgrimage tourism following the Ram Temple’s opening marks a new chapter for Ayodhya as one of India’s most important religious tourism hubs. The increasing number of visitors and the boost to local businesses reflect the economic impact of Ayodhya’s transformation into a globally recognized destination for spiritual tourism.

The city is no longer only a religious site but is evolving into a vibrant tourism destination that blends spirituality, heritage, and modern amenities. As more pilgrims and tourists arrive, Ayodhya will continue to play a critical role in the tourism economy of Uttar Pradesh, contributing to the regional growth and job creation in various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, and tourism services.

Long-Term Impact on Ayodhya’s Economic Growth and Tourism Development

Further development linked to tourism infrastructure, such as accommodation facilities, transportation links, and tourism-related services, will continue to take place in Ayodhya. This growth in infrastructure will ensure that the city remains capable of receiving the growing number of visitors while delivering quality experiences for return visits and word-of-mouth recommendations.

The Ram Temple and events such as the Dhwaj ceremony thus form a sound foundation for sustainable tourism in Ayodhya, ensuring economic growth, preservation of the local culture, and dispersion of economic benefits from tourism. As Ayodhya is further developing as a pilgrimage destination, the tourism impact of this city creates lasting benefits for its local communities, furthering its status as a destination not to be missed by spiritual seekers and cultural tourists alike.