- The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has paid nearly Rs 400 crore in taxes over five years, highlighting the boom in religious tourism in Ayodhya.
- 16 crore visitors arrived in Ayodhya in the past year, with around 5 crore devotees visiting the Ram temple alone.
- The rise in religious tourism has boosted local businesses and created jobs, transforming Ayodhya’s economy.
How Did Ayodhya Become a Religious Tourism Hotspot?
The construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya has turned the city into one of the biggest religious tourism destinations in India. After the Supreme Court’s historic 2019 verdict allowing the temple’s construction, millions of devotees have been visiting the holy site. Since the temple’s sanctum sanctorum was completed and the idol of Lord Rama was consecrated in January 2024, the number of visitors has skyrocketed.
This surge in footfall has significantly boosted the revenue of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, leading to a massive tax contribution of Rs 400 crore, including Rs 270 crore in GST alone. The trust has assured full transparency in its financial dealings, with regular audits conducted by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).
What Does This Mean for Ayodhya’s Future?
The impact of this religious tourism boom is visible across Ayodhya. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, transport services, and shops, have seen unprecedented growth. The increase in visitors has created numerous job opportunities, making Ayodhya a thriving economic hub.
With the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj also attracting devotees to Ayodhya, the religious tourism trend is expected to continue. The temple has not just become a place of faith but also a driving force behind Ayodhya’s transformation into a major economic and spiritual center in India.
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