Pilgrimage Travel in India Sees Nineteen Percent Growth with Rising Popularity of Varanasi, Ayodhya, Khatushyam Ji, and Thiruchendur
Pilgrimage travel across India has become one of the fastest-growing sectors in the tourism industry, as recent data reveals a 19% increase in accommodation bookings for FY 2024-25. This trend is not only limited to the well-known pilgrimage hubs such as Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Tirupati, but is also expanding to newer spiritual hotspots. Destinations like Khatushyam Ji in Rajasthan, Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh, and Thiruchendur in Tamil Nadu have seen substantial growth in recent years, with some locations witnessing booking increases of over 25%.
The report highlights that short-term, purpose-driven travel is dominating the sector, with travelers increasingly opting for single-night stays. This growing demand is also prompting the launch of new accommodations and services, particularly in premium segments. In this article, we explore the latest trends in India’s pilgrimage travel sector and the factors driving this surge.
Pilgrimage Travel Growth Across India
According to the “Pilgrimage Travel Trends 2024-25” report by MakeMyTrip, India’s pilgrimage tourism has grown significantly, with bookings rising by 19% across 56 destinations. This growth reflects the widespread appeal of spiritual journeys that go beyond traditional pilgrimage sites. The surge is attributed to a combination of factors, including the convenience of travel, a deepening connection to spiritual destinations, and the increasing availability of diverse accommodation options.
While the core destinations like Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Puri continue to be popular, a notable increase in interest is seen in emerging pilgrimage locations. Rajasthan’s Khatushyam Ji, located in the Shekhawati region, and Omkareshwar, a sacred town in Madhya Pradesh, are experiencing a boom in visitor numbers. Similarly, Thiruchendur in Tamil Nadu, known for its Murugan temple, is attracting both local and international pilgrims. These destinations have recorded double-digit growth, and some have seen bookings rise by more than 25%.
Short-Term Stays Gaining Popularity
A key finding of the report is the increasing preference for short trips. Over half (53%) of all pilgrimage travelers are opting for single-night visits. This contrasts with leisure travel, where only 45% of travelers prefer one-night stays. The convenience of short-term pilgrimages fits well with the busy schedules of many devotees, who often seek quick, purposeful visits to spiritual centers. Two-night stays account for 31% of pilgrimage bookings, while longer stays of four nights or more are relatively rare.
The trend towards shorter pilgrimages is also a result of improved transportation and accommodation options that allow for more flexibility and convenience. Travelers can now easily plan last-minute trips to various destinations, often within just a few days of departure. This has contributed to the rise in popularity of pilgrimage travel, making it more accessible to a wider range of people.
Premium Accommodation on the Rise
While budget-friendly rooms priced under Rs 4,500 remain the most popular choice, there is an increasing demand for premium accommodations. Bookings for rooms in the Rs 7,000–10,000 range grew by 24%, while those exceeding Rs 10,000 saw a 23% rise. The rise of upscale accommodation is not only reflecting a shift in the preferences of pilgrims but also the increase in disposable income among a segment of the population willing to invest in better lodging for their spiritual journeys.
This growing demand for premium stays is driving the expansion of high-end hotels, homestays, and service apartments. More than a third of the accommodation options in pilgrimage destinations have been introduced over the past three years, with premium offerings making up a significant portion of this growth. This boom is further fueled by a general trend towards more comfort-focused travel experiences, as travelers increasingly seek a blend of spirituality and luxury.
Group Travel Trends
Another significant trend in pilgrimage tourism is the rise of group travel. Pilgrimage trips, often taken in groups with family or community, now account for 47% of all bookings. This is a marked contrast to leisure travel, where group trips make up only 38.9% of bookings. The sense of community and shared purpose during group pilgrimages adds to the appeal of visiting sacred sites with loved ones. Group travel also allows for cost-sharing, making it a more affordable option for many families and spiritual groups.
New Accommodations and Infrastructure
As the demand for pilgrimage travel continues to increase, the infrastructure in many spiritual destinations is being rapidly upgraded. The growing need for new hotels, homestays, and accommodation options has resulted in an influx of new establishments. In fact, more than a third of the accommodation supply in pilgrimage destinations has been added in the past three years. These newly established accommodations are catering to both budget-conscious and premium-seeking travelers, ensuring a more diverse range of options for pilgrims.
Emerging Pilgrimage Locations
The popularity of emerging pilgrimage sites like Khatushyam Ji, Omkareshwar, and Thiruchendur underscores a broader shift in travel preferences. Devotees are increasingly looking beyond the well-established pilgrimage towns to explore less crowded destinations that offer spiritual fulfillment and tranquility. These locations are not only becoming more accessible but are also benefiting from enhanced transportation and infrastructure developments.
Closing Thoughts
The rising trend in pilgrimage tourism across India reflects the country’s deep-rooted spiritual and cultural heritage. With new destinations gaining prominence and travelers seeking more comfort and convenience, the sector is poised for sustained growth. Whether through short, purpose-driven visits or the growing demand for premium accommodations, pilgrimage travel is evolving, offering both traditional and modern experiences for today’s pilgrims.
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