How Indians Traveled in 2024 for Religious Purposes
Spiritual Journey Driving Tourism Growth.
Religious tourism in India witnessed remarkable growth in 2024, driven by the country’s rich spiritual heritage and the increasing mobility of domestic and international pilgrims. As India continues to cement its status as a global spiritual hub, millions of devotees traveled across the country, contributing significantly to both the economy and cultural preservation. This trend reflects the deep-rooted faith of Indians and their willingness to explore spiritual destinations, blending tradition with modern travel conveniences.
The Economic Footprint of Religious Tourism
India’s religious tourism market was valued at USD 202.85 billion in FY2024, with projections reaching USD 441.19 billion by FY2032 at a CAGR of 10.2%. The surge in pilgrimages and spiritual journeys highlights the sector’s potential to drive regional economic development and create employment opportunities.
Key Factors Driving Religious Travel in 2024
Government-Led Infrastructure Projects
The Indian government’s commitment to boosting religious tourism is evident through initiatives like:PRASHAD Scheme – Upgrading pilgrimage sites with improved amenities, accessibility, and preservation projects.
Swadesh Darshan Scheme – Developing thematic circuits focused on religious and spiritual tourism.
Rise in Spontaneous Pilgrimages
48% of Indian travelers booked flights within seven days of their trip, reflecting increased interest in impromptu spiritual journeys.
The availability of direct flight routes to key religious sites and visa-free travel options encouraged spontaneous religious travel.
Preference for Short-Duration Pilgrimages
Over 60% of trips were for less than a week, signaling a trend of short yet meaningful pilgrimages to key temples and shrines.
Luxury and Premium Pilgrimages
37% of travelers upgraded to business/first-class for religious trips.
Domestic hotel bookings exceeding ₹10,000 rose by 22%, reflecting an increased demand for comfort and luxury during pilgrimages.
Top Religious Destinations in 2024
1. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Highlight: Inauguration of Ram Mandir in January 2024.
Impact: Ayodhya became a top pilgrimage hub, attracting 50 million visitors annually, placing it among the world’s most-visited religious sites.
2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Highlight: Known as the spiritual capital of India.
Impact: Over 20 million devotees visited the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and participated in the Ganga Aarti.
3. Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
Highlight: The iconic Sri Venkateswara Temple.
Impact: Welcomed 30-40 million pilgrims seeking blessings from Lord Venkateswara.
4. Vaishno Devi, Jammu & Kashmir
Highlight: One of the most revered Hindu shrines.
Impact: 9.5 million devotees undertook the sacred trek, aided by improved facilities and helicopter services.
5. Golden Temple, Amritsar, Punjab
Highlight: A symbol of Sikh faith and equality.
Impact: Over 6 million visitors immersed themselves in the spiritual tranquility of the temple.
Emerging Pilgrimage Hotspots
Ujjain and Maihar, Madhya Pradesh – Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga and Maa Sharda Temple saw significant visitor influx, surpassing wildlife parks and hill stations in popularity.
Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu – A major Char Dham site, drawing pilgrims seeking salvation rituals and religious experiences.
Religious Travel Trends in 2024
1-3 Day Pilgrimages: The majority of spiritual trips were short-duration pilgrimages, often taken over weekends.
Insurance and Safety: With increased travel, ₹43.2 crores worth of travel insurance plans were purchased by devotees.
Spontaneous Bookings: 48% of all religious flights were booked within a week of travel, indicating a rise in flexible travel plans.
Economic and Cultural Impact of Pilgrimage Travel
Employment Growth – Pilgrimage travel generated thousands of jobs across hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.
Cultural Preservation – Funds from religious tourism facilitated the restoration of heritage sites and temple conservation projects.
The Future of Religious Tourism
India’s religious tourism industry is poised for continued growth as infrastructure develops further and technology enhances pilgrimage experiences. The sector’s role in shaping India’s travel landscape reflects not only economic progress but also a deep connection to spiritual roots that guide millions each year.
By blending faith, tradition, and modernity, India’s religious tourism promises to remain a cornerstone of the country’s travel economy for years to come.