Mela, despite their long journeys. This grand event, believed to occur once in 144 years, attracts millions who chant God’s name while bathing. As of now, the event has drawn an overwhelming crowd of more than 450 million visitors, with estimations suggesting that the total attendance could exceed 550 million by the time it concludes.
This massive influx of people highlights the mela’s significance, making it one of the most attended gatherings in history. The sheer scale of participation underscores the cultural, religious, and social importance of the occasion, attracting travelers, pilgrims, and tourists from across the country and beyond.
The mela is of profound religious importance, rooted in the belief that the Saraswati River once joined here, despite its current invisibility. One of the key factors driving such a remarkable turnout is the deep spiritual connection that many devotees have with the religious aspects of the event. Pilgrims from different regions embark on journeys to partake in rituals, prayers, and ceremonies that hold immense religious significance. This has led to a surge in travel to prominent spiritual destinations, particularly Ayodhya and Varanasi, two of India’s most revered cities known for their historical and religious importance.
Information Officer Gagan Yadav reported that daily attendance ranges from 10 to 30 million, with AI-based cameras tracking the influx. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, the number of devotees has surged, making crowd management challenging. Ayodhya, regarded as the birthplace of Lord Ram, has been a focal point for Hindu pilgrims for centuries.
The city’s temples, ghats, and newly developed religious infrastructure have seen a dramatic rise in visitors, further cementing its status as a major pilgrimage site. With ongoing developments, including the construction of the grand Ram Temple, Ayodhya is emerging as a key religious tourism destination, drawing both domestic and international tourists. The influx of visitors is also boosting local businesses, from hotels and guesthouses to restaurants and travel agencies, contributing to the city’s growing economy.
So far, more than 450 million visitors have participated in the mela, with projections indicating the number could surpass 550 million by its conclusion. Similarly, Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, holds a unique spiritual aura that attracts millions of devotees and travelers. Known as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi is famous for its sacred Ganges River, where pilgrims perform rituals and seek blessings. The city’s ancient temples, vibrant ghats, and spiritual ceremonies, such as the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, make it a must-visit destination for those seeking religious and cultural enrichment.
Additionally, a significant number of pilgrims travel to spiritual destinations such as Ayodhya and Varanasi, renowned for their religious and cultural significance. The growing number of visitors to Ayodhya and Varanasi is a testament to the increasing interest in religious tourism. Both cities have witnessed significant infrastructural advancements, including improved transportation, enhanced accommodations, and better facilities for pilgrims. These developments have further positioned Ayodhya and Varanasi as major centers for spiritual tourism, attracting not only devout Hindus but also international travelers interested in India’s rich heritage.
Yadav suggested that Nepal could benefit by promoting pilgrimages to Pashupatinath, Muktinath, and Lumbini. The Indian government has spent Rs 75 billion on arrangements, including bathing areas, accommodations, and media facilities. The surge in religious tourism is also influencing the hospitality and travel industry. Hotels, lodges, and guesthouses are seeing record-high occupancy rates, while travel operators are offering curated pilgrimage packages to cater to the rising demand. The integration of digital services, such as online bookings for temples, guided tours, and spiritual retreats, has made it easier for visitors to plan their journeys.
With the event’s attendance reaching unprecedented numbers and religious tourism thriving in cities like Ayodhya and Varanasi, it is evident that India’s spiritual heritage continues to be a major attraction for millions. As the event progresses, these destinations will likely witness even greater footfall, reinforcing their reputation as global centers for faith-based travel.
