Varanasi, Apr 14:
The city of Varanasi is renowned for its sacred Ganga river, majestic ghats, delectable cuisine, elegant
silk sarees, ancient universities, and temples. Popular for the miscellany of spirituality, culture, art, food,
and heritage, Varanasi is endearingly monikered as Kashi or Banaras.
The city, for ages, has long been the ultimate pilgrimage for the devotees of Hinduism worldwide.
In 2023, Varanasi witnessed a staggering influx of tourists, with over 5.38 crore visitors, including 13,700
from foreign shores, as per data from the UP tourism department. This marked a substantial increase
from the 54.8 lakh visitors recorded in 2014, coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rise to power
at the Centre and his electoral victory in the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency, a BJP stronghold since
1991.
The surge in tourist arrivals has catalyzed the economic growth of the ‘Spiritual Capital of India,’ with
tourism-related income experiencing a remarkable 65% surge, particularly following the inauguration of
the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor.
This growth can be attributed to significant improvements in infrastructure, such as airports, well-
connected roads, and luxurious accommodation options, all while maintaining a steadfast commitment to
preserving its rich heritage.
