Will today’s inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya boost Indian tourism?

Published on January 22, 2024

The inauguration of the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir today, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and featuring ceremonies by Varanasi’s Lakshmikant Dixit, will mark a momentous event with leaders from various spiritual and religious groups in India as well as notable figures from diverse backgrounds. This temple, designed by Chandrakant B Sompura and his son Ashish, not only carries religious significance but also holds substantial potential for boosting tourism in the region.

The temple’s architectural grandeur, rooted in the Nagara style, makes it a splendid sight for visitors. Spanning 380 feet in length, 250 feet in width, and rising to a height of 161 feet, it presents a majestic profile. Its 392 pillars and 44 doors across three stories, adorned with intricate carvings of Hindu deities, offer a rich tapestry of art and culture, attracting not only devotees but also lovers of art and history.

As a new focal point for spiritual tourism, the temple, with its primary sanctuary housing an idol of Lord Ram and a Shri Ram Darbar on the first floor, is expected to draw pilgrims from across the globe. The inclusion of five distinct halls – Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap – adds to the temple’s cultural significance, offering varied experiences to visitors.

The temple complex, with its additional smaller temples dedicated to various deities, presents a comprehensive spiritual experience. The facility’s accessibility features, like ramps and lifts, ensure it welcomes a broad spectrum of tourists, including the differently-abled and elderly.

Furthermore, the temple’s sustainable construction approach, avoiding steel and iron in favor of traditional materials like Bansi Paharpur Pink Sandstone and granite, appeals to those interested in sustainable architecture and ancient construction methods. The use of “Ram Shilas,” special bricks linked to the mythical Ram Setu, integrates a deep cultural and historical aspect into the temple’s structure, enhancing its appeal to both domestic and international tourists seeking a connection with India’s rich mythological past.

The surrounding features, like the historical Sita koop well, the restored ancient temple of Bhagwan Shiv at Kuber Tila, and the enclosing Parkota, add layers of historical and cultural depth, making the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir not just a place of worship but a comprehensive destination encapsulating spirituality, history, architecture, and cultural heritage. This multifaceted appeal is likely to make it a must-visit destination, significantly contributing to the region’s tourism industry and India’s global cultural presence.