With improved connectivity, tourism in Kashi goes global
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Varanasi: Improved connectivity in the city during eight-year regime of Chief Minister
Yogi Adityanath
has now started yielding positive results, especially in tourism sector. Tourist footfall crossed 8.94-crore mark in 2023 and exceeded 11 crores in 2024.
A massive rise of number was evident in arrival of foreigners too.
Deputy director (tourism) Rajendra Kumar Rawat said number of domestic and foreign tourists visiting Varanasi was 8,94,73,626 in 2023, which increased to over 11,00,97,743 in 2024, an increase of approximately 18.73% in number of domestic and foreign tourists and 18.68% increase in domestic tourists. Compared to 2023, there was an increase of 20,516,082 Indian tourists in 2024, while the number of foreign tourists increased by 108,035.
People associated with tourism sector feel projection of the city as 'Brand Banaras' made such an impact on the international tourism map in past eight years that tourists from around the world were increasingly drawn to Kashi. Yogi govt rapidly transformed Kashi's appearance, restoring its ancient glory. Kashi became modern while retaining its historical significance. As Kashi changed its image, world was drawn to Banaras.
Industry people said development works required to boost tourism in Kashi weren't seen before the Yogi era. There has been significant improvement in Kashi's law and order, connectivity (road, rail, air) and basic facilities. They added that after changing atmosphere in the state, inauguration of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham corridor with added facilities by Prime Minister Narendra Modi did wonders. Renovation of ghats, cleanliness and modern amenities attracted tourists, leading to continuous record increase in number of tourists in Kashi.
Influx of tourists to Varanasi had been increasing steadily over past few years. Along with setting a record in tourist numbers, there is positive impact on tourism industry and Kashi's economy. In 2024, number of Indian and foreign tourists increased by 2,06,24,117 compared to 2023, with a 34.85% increase in foreign tourists, said Rawat.
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