India, long revered as a land of spiritual enlightenment, is witnessing a remarkable surge in spiritual tourism, which is fast becoming a cornerstone of the travel and hospitality industry. While traditional pilgrimage hubs like Varanasi, Tirupati, and Ayodhya remain popular, emerging destinations are gaining momentum as travelers seek meaningful and transformative experiences. This trend is reshaping the tourism landscape, attracting both domestic and international travelers eager to connect with India’s rich spiritual heritage.
Rajesh Magow, Co-founder, Group CEO, and Director of MakeMyTrip, highlighted the year-round appeal of pilgrimage travel in India, describing it as unaffected by seasonal trends. “There’s no season for it,” he remarked during a recent earnings call, emphasizing the consistent demand. To cater to this growing segment, MakeMyTrip has introduced features like wheelchair-friendly accommodations, proximity filters for religious sites, and vegetarian meal options. These initiatives enhance accessibility and convenience for travelers, further fueling the growth of spiritual tourism.
According to a KPMG report titled Sacred Journeys: Unfolding the evolution and growth of pilgrimage and spiritual tourism in India, the market is projected to reach approximately $59 billion by 2028. The report underscores the dynamic evolution of spiritual tourism, rooted in India’s cultural heritage. With 10 of India’s 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites classified under religious heritage and over 450,000 temples, mosques, gurudwaras, and churches managed by trusts, the nation offers unparalleled diversity for spiritual seekers.
Economic Impact and Global Trends
Religious tourism constitutes over 60 percent of domestic travel in India. International interest has also surged, with a 21.4 percent increase in spiritual travel visa applications, as reported by Atlys, a visa processing platform. Events like the Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, draw millions of visitors and account for nearly 48 percent of spiritual travel visas. Notably, countries like the US and the UK have witnessed a significant rise in spiritual tourists, underscoring India’s global appeal.
Globally, the religious tourism market is expected to reach $2.22 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.25 percent. In India, this sector is poised to employ over 100 million people by 2030, solidifying its role as a critical economic driver.
Shifting Demographics and Emerging Preferences
A demographic shift is redefining spiritual tourism in India. Women, particularly millennials, account for 66 percent of spiritual travelers, reflecting a growing preference for introspective and meaningful vacations. Group travel for spiritual purposes has risen by 35 percent, showcasing a desire for shared and community-driven experiences.
Modern travelers increasingly seek responsible and transformative journeys. Many now pair spiritual visits with wellness retreats and medical treatments, embracing holistic travel experiences. The post-pandemic era has also seen a rise in virtual pilgrimages, such as live-streamed darshans, highlighting how technology is reshaping spiritual tourism.
Government Initiatives and Infrastructure Development
The Indian government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure around pilgrimage sites has significantly improved connectivity, accommodations, and overall accessibility. Sustainable practices and upgraded facilities have made these destinations more appealing to a global audience.
India’s ambitious “@2047 Vision” aims to attract 100 million inbound tourists by 2047, coinciding with the nation’s 100th year of independence. This strategy focuses on infrastructure development, diverse tourism experiences, and sustainable practices, ensuring India remains a top destination for spiritual tourism.
A Gateway to Cultural and Personal Growth
Spiritual tourism in India has transcended traditional pilgrimage circuits to become a dynamic and inclusive sector catering to diverse audiences. As the industry evolves, it balances ancient traditions with modern infrastructure and sustainable practices, offering travelers a unique blend of cultural enrichment and personal growth.
The robust recovery of the tourism sector post-pandemic, driven by domestic travel, highlights its resilience. By 2034, the sector is projected to contribute ₹43.25 trillion to India’s GDP and support 63 million jobs. This growth trajectory aligns with the broader goals of the @2047 Vision, positioning spiritual tourism as a cornerstone of India’s tourism strategy.
For travel trade professionals, the burgeoning market presents immense opportunities to create tailored experiences that resonate with today’s spiritual travelers. As the world looks to India for timeless wisdom and vibrant traditions, the country’s spiritual tourism sector stands as a beacon for inclusive and sustainable growth, inviting global travelers to embark on journeys of self-discovery and cultural immersion.
