Kashi Tourism Booms: Foreign Visitors Surge 120 times in 3 Years

Varanasi, India’s timeless spiritual capital, has seen an unprecedented rise in tourism over the past three years, transforming into one of the country’s most-visited destinations. Official data from the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department reveals that over 11 crore tourists visited Kashi in 2024 an 18.7% increase compared to the previous year.

Foreign Tourist Arrivals Skyrocket by 120 Times

The growth in international tourism is even more striking. From just 2,566 foreign visitors in 2021, the city welcomed over 3.09 lakh foreign tourists in 2024, marking a 120-fold increase. By June 2025, nearly 1.88 lakh international travellers had already visited, showing no signs of slowdown.

Domestic Tourism Surpasses Major Indian Destinations

Kashi’s domestic footfall has soared as well from 30.7 lakh visitors in 2021 to over 10.97 crore in 2024. In the first half of 2025 alone, more than 12.96 crore people have arrived, placing Varanasi ahead of traditional hotspots such as Goa and Shimla in total visitors.

Revitalisation and Infrastructure Driving Growth

Officials attribute this remarkable transformation to the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, inaugurated in 2021, which has redefined the pilgrimage experience with modern amenities, efficient crowd management, and improved accessibility. The government’s continued focus on branding Varanasi as a global spiritual and cultural hub has played a pivotal role in this success.

Part of Uttar Pradesh’s Expanding Religious Tourism Triangle

According to Uttar Pradesh Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh, Varanasi is now part of a growing “religious tourism triangle” along with Ayodhya, Mathura, and Prayagraj, drawing visitors year-round. Ayodhya alone recorded 16 crore visitors in 2024 after the consecration of the Ram Temple, while the state saw foreign arrivals rise from 16 lakh in 2023 to 22 lakh in 2024, with Varanasi contributing significantly.

With its perfect blend of heritage, faith, and infrastructure, Varanasi stands as a testament to India’s tourism renaissance, symbolising both cultural continuity and modern transformation.