- Religious destinations account for 14 percent of hotel pipeline.
- Ayodhya leads pipeline with 2,100 branded keys.
- Religious tourism market to reach $671.9 billion.
Religious destinations account for nearly 14 percent of India's branded hotel pipeline, with about 19,760 keys expected by 2030. Globally, the religious tourism market is projected to reach $671.9 billion by 2030.
The report attributes the growth to three factors. First, government investment has improved infrastructure at pilgrimage destinations. Under the PRASHAD scheme, 48 projects have been sanctioned in 27 states and union territories.
Second, the profile of religious travelers is changing. More people are combining pilgrimages with leisure, wellness and cultural trips. This is increasing demand for quality accommodation and other hospitality services.
Third, the report noted that several religious destinations are seeing broader economic growth. Ayodhya leads the pipeline, with about 2,100 branded hotel keys expected by 2030 after a sharp rise in visitor numbers. Amritsar, Pushkar, Tirupati, Varanasi, Rishikesh, Vrindavan, Ujjain, Haridwar and Dwarka are also seeing hotel development, while Varanasi recorded a record 72.6 million visitors in 2025, according to the Uttar Pradesh government.
The report said these destinations vary in their appeal, from temple towns and riverfront spiritual centers to faith-and-leisure destinations. As a result, they offer opportunities for hotels in economy, midscale and upscale segments.
Another recent report by NOESIS Hotel Advisors found institutional investors are now the largest buyers in India's hotel market, reflecting growing interest in the sector.
