According to the latest news reports, there has been a 21.4% rise in inbound travel for spiritual purposes in India, according to Atlys, the leading visa processing platform. The trend is primarily driven by big religious events like Mahakumbh and other major festivals, which draw millions of tourists every year.
As per the date, nearly 48% of all spiritual travel visa applications are linked to big events and pilgrimages like the Maha Kumbh. As regarding the Maha Kumbh, which is currently underway, is one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, which will likely draw an estimated 42 million pilgrims. Held once every 144 years, this extraordinary event provides an opportunity for both domestic and international visitors to connect with India’s profound spiritual heritage.
The number of spiritual tourists from countries like the US and the UK has also increased manifold, with many people seeking authentic and life-altering experiences. Women, who constitute 66% of millennial spiritual travelers, are leading this change. More and more younger generations are opting for spiritual and meaningful vacations over traditional tourist activities, which indicates a significant shift in the demography of travelers.
Read more: A look at 8 countries that offer unrestricted Birthright Citizenship, amid Trump’s push to end it
Another new trend that has been witnessed in spiritual tourism is growing interest in group travel. Applications for inbound travel for group spiritual experiences increased by 35 percent. While on group excursions, visitors may engage with like-minded people and build a sense of community while participating in customs and rituals at holy locations.
Top spiritual destinations
Spirituality tourism in India has been witnessing a steady growth in the past few years. Some prominent places that contributed to this growth include places like Varanasi and Rishikesh, where millions of foreigners visit every year, to meditate alongside glistening Ganges, watch evening aarti, or spend time wandering along the timeless ghats.
Read more: 5 bucket-list destinations to cover in 2025 on a shoestring budget
Improved infrastructure
To accommodate the continuous stream of spiritual tourists, authorities have upgraded the infrastructures and accommodations surrounding significant pilgrimage sites. Such developments help ensure a much more comfortable and accessible experience in line with India’s commitment to welcoming spiritual seekers from all parts of the globe.
With events like the Maha Kumbh drawing record crowds and an increasing global interest in its spiritual legacy, India is solidifying its position as a prominent spiritual tourism destination. The combination of enhanced infrastructure and a shift in travel trends ensures that India will remain a beacon for spiritual journeys for years to come.