The Maha Kumbh Mela is in full swing right now and pilgrims from all over the world are flocking to Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh to attend this festivity. Interestingly, devotees from European and American nations are also seen taking a holy bath at the Triveni Sangam. Reports suggest that Maha Kumbh is helping boost inbound travel to India for spiritual purposes. Scroll on to know more about this.
Maha Kumbh & Other Festivals Increase Inbound Travel To India
With its rich spiritual heritage and diverse cultural tapestry, global interest in India’s spiritual tourism has steadily risen in the past decade. According to data shared by Atlys, a visa processing platform, there has been a 21.4% increase in inbound travel to India for spiritual purposes. This surge is mainly driven by the Maha Kumbh Mela and other major festivals in the country.
According to reports, Maha Kumbh Mela is estimated to attract 42 crore pilgrims from all over the world. Atlys data shows that nearly 48% of all spiritual travel visa applications are linked to major events and pilgrimages like the Maha Kumbh.
They revealed that this surge in applications is largely driven by travellers from the UK and USA. Furthermore, spiritual travel is no longer associated with older generations. The data showed that millennials now lead the trend, with 66% of this segment being women.
Also Read: Kumbh Mela 2025: Bengaluru To Varanasi Train Launched With Special Express Service For Pilgrims
Preferred Spiritual Destinations For International Travellers
Varanasi, Rishikesh, and Haridwar continue to dominate international travellers’ destination preferences for spiritual tourism. Atlys’ data also revealed that group inbound travel applications have surged by 35%. This reflects a growing preference for communal spiritual experiences.
Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys, feels, “India’s spiritual legacy has always captured global attention, but we’re now seeing an embrace of these sacred journeys by travellers seeking both adventure and self-discovery. The Maha Kumbh and similar festivals are no longer just for traditional pilgrims; they’re appealing to a broader audience looking for meaningful experiences.”
So, have you taken a holy bath at the Maha Kumbh yet? Let us know in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/MahaaKumbh
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