Uttar Pradesh Expects Record Tourist Inflow of 1.3 Billion in 2025

Lucknow | 1, July 2025 : Uttar Pradesh (UP) is gearing up for a remarkable milestone in its tourism industry, projecting an inflow of 1.3 billion tourists in 2025. This ambitious target signals a 100% increase over 2024, when the state recorded 650 million tourists.

Consistent Growth in Tourist Numbers

In 2023, UP saw nearly 480 million domestic and international tourists. Varanasi, one of India’s most spiritual destinations, attracted over 11 million tourists in 2024, marking an increase of 8.2 million from the previous year. To support this surge, around 100,000 new hotel rooms have been added.

Rise in Foreign Tourist Visits

Significant Increase in International Arrivals

The state’s foreign tourist inflow is also witnessing impressive growth. In 2024, foreign visitors rose to 2.27 million, compared to 1.6 million in 2023. Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal, remains the top destination for international tourists with 1.47 million visitors in 2024.

Major Investments in Hospitality Infrastructure

₹1 Trillion Hospitality Investment Proposals

UP has attracted nearly ₹1 trillion worth of investment proposals in the hospitality sector. These investments will fund the development of hotels, resorts, guesthouses, wellness centres, and homestays across all 75 districts of the state.

Religious Tourism Boosts Visitor Numbers

Ayodhya Leads the Way

Ayodhya has emerged as a major draw for pilgrims after the consecration of the Ram Temple on January 22, 2024. The city welcomed 16.4 million pilgrims in 2024, up from 5.75 million in 2023.

Popular religious cities like Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj continue to attract millions alongside traditional tourist hotspots such as Lucknow, Agra, Kanpur, and Noida.

Visitor Spending and Travel Trends

High Visitor Spending

On average, an overnight tourist in UP spends ₹5,400, while long-term visitors spend about ₹7,500. Accommodation accounts for 41% of total spending, with inter-district travel making up 80% of tourism activities.

Key Source Markets

Neighbouring states like Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh top the list for domestic arrivals. Internationally, Thailand, South Korea, and Myanmar are key source countries for inbound backpackers.

Government’s Vision for a Trillion-Dollar Economy

Uttar Pradesh’s Minister for Tourism & Culture, Jaiveer Singh, emphasized the critical role of tourism in driving the state’s trillion-dollar economy goal.

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