Spiritual Travel
Spike in spiritual tourism, Mahakal Lok corridor fuels Ujjain temple economy | Indore News
Indore/Ujjain: The spike in spiritual tourism in the past few years transformed the temple town of Ujjain into a bustling hub of economic activity, with the Mahakal Temple serving as a spiritual attraction and economic powerhouse. This attracted major realtors, posh hotels, showrooms of top clothing brands, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and many other commercial establishments.
The rise in visitor footfall following the development of the Mahakal Lok Corridor in 2022 fostered Ujjain’s cultural and spiritual status, turning it into a thriving temple economy that attracts millions of devotees and tourists from across the world. The project attracted an unprecedented influx, fueling occupancy in hotels, guesthouses, and resorts and bringing major clothing and auto brands and showrooms to the city.
The growth in religious tourism resulted in a substantial increase in revenues earned by the Ujjain Municipal Corporation. The corporation saw a significant rise in tax collections, with revenue jumping from Rs 220.91 crore in 2021-22 to Rs 370.28 crore in 2023-24. This increase was driven by higher property taxes, hotel registrations, and commercial licensing fees.
“More than two dozen private hotels and gardens have come up here, and these hotels are consistently contributing to the commercial growth of the city. Revenues from taxes have grown significantly, and this has helped in financially strengthening the region. This region has become a hotspot for opening hotels, marriage gardens, and resorts,” said Janpad CEO Sandeep Yadav.
Additionally, the expansion of multi-level parking facilities near Mahakal Lok and other key areas generated substantial parking revenue for the city.
Another major sector that benefited from Ujjain’s transformation is real estate. The launch of Mahakal Lok triggered an unprecedented property boom in residential and commercial properties, with land prices witnessing a 3 to 8 times increase. Properties near Indore Road and areas adjacent to Mahakal Lok have become prime real estate, attracting both local and national investors.
According to property experts, the demand for commercial and residential properties surged, with a sharp rise in registrations in the past two years. The anticipation of Simhastha 2028 further fueled speculation, as investors expect property values to rise even higher in the coming years.
Property advisor and valuer Yogendra Mathur said, “Although there is a steady annual increase in the guideline at the district level, the market recorded a much higher rise. In the past three years, property values increased by 3 to 8 times. If we look at specific areas, the regions connected to Shri Mahakal Lok have seen even greater growth. Additionally, the impact of the growth rate has been significant in large parts along the Indore Road. The number of documents submitted for registration also increased two to threefold. Moreover, there is a consistent interest from external buyers.”
The demand for accommodation led to a rapid expansion of the hospitality industry, and the number of hotels in the city tripled in just two years. Areas like Indore Road and Panthpiplai have become hotspots for new commercial developments, further enhancing the region’s economic prospects.
Pandit Rajesh Trivedi, president of Hotel and Guest House Association, said, “Post the inauguration of Shri Mahakal Lok, most of the rooms in hotels and guest houses were booked daily. During festivals and special occasions, unexpected visitors from outside often had to sleep in their vehicles when they couldn’t find accommodation. Before May 24, an average of 70-80 per cent of the rooms were booked daily each month. However, recently, a decline in this business has been observed owing to a large number of new hotels in the city, leading to staff reductions in hotels and guest houses and other cost-cutting measures to balance income and expenses.”
According to the Madhya Pradesh Western Region Power Distribution Company, electricity demand in Ujjain jumped by around 10 crore units annually post the development of the Mahakal Lok, prompting the department to set up new grids and make arrangements for an additional double and triple supply system in the city.
Economists said Simhastha 2028, which is expected to bring millions of devotees and tourists to Ujjain, will give a massive economic boost to the city and is projected to increase local business revenues by 30-40%, benefiting hoteliers, transport operators, local vendors, and retailers. State govt has already started planning large-scale infrastructure expansions, including new hotels, temporary accommodations, and improved transport facilities to manage the anticipated influx.
TEHRAN — Isfahan Municipality is set to officially unveil the spiritual tourism routes of Isfahan, highlighting saqqakhanehs (traditional places providing water to the passersby), seminaries, and mosques located within the city’s ancient bazaar, said Alireza Massah, who presides over the municipality’s tourism office.
Speaking at a press conference of a cultural event themed “Isfahan, a Narrative of Love and Art” with focus on spiritual tourism, handicrafts and Muharram rituals, he said all the facilities of Cultural Complex of Isfahan Municipality’s District Four have been made available to the “Narrative of Love and Art” exhibition, Mehr news agency reported.
He said, “Our cultural colleagues have done their best to prepare the space in Chahar Bagh Boulevard in recent days.”
Since the exhibition will continue until 22 at nights, the coordination has been made with Isfahan and Suburbs Bus Company for transferring the artisans and citizens until that time, he added.
Pointing to the special potentials of ritual tourism in Isfahan, he said Takht-e Foulad site is one of the important centers of Isfahan’s spiritual and religious tourism.
This site is not only valuable in terms of architecture and history, the carvings on tombstones, the calligraphy lines, and the mystical concepts engraved on the tombstones are themselves a living museum of the religious beliefs of the people of this land, he mentioned.
He gave news of the role of Specialized Office of National and Ritual Arts of Isfahan Municipality in this event, saying: “This office with cooperation of other cultural bodies, will launch stands in Chahar Bagh and also perform special artistic programs in public space. The event is an opportunity to showcase the artistic potentials associated with religious and spiritual rituals.”
Massah also gave news of planning for revival of spiritual tourism in Isfahan’s historical Bazaar, adding that Isfahan Bazar is full of religious spaces, which includes traditional saqqakhanehs, mosques, seminaries and Hosseinieh which are rooted in Muharram history and culture.
All of them are proper grounds for planning new tourism routes with spiritual approach, he pointed out.
He expressed the hope that these new routes can familiarize domestic and foreign tourists with rarely-seen manifestation of Isfahan cultural heritage, a heritage which has deep ties with Muharram rituals and public beliefs.
KD
Spiritual Travel
Goa Unveils Vibrant Tourism Portfolio at TTF Ahmedabad 2025, Featuring Spiritual Retreats, Adventure Tourism, and Unique Monsoon Experiences
Friday, July 18, 2025
Goa is all set to be part of the upcoming Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) in Ahmedabad from July 31 to August 2, 2025. The Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre in Gandhinagar will be the venue of this cross-sectoral event, which provides important networking opportunities for travel industry players, tourism boards and operators to meet and explore domestic and international tourism markets. Goa’s presence at TTF Ahmedabad is important especially for showcasing Goa the destination beyond its popular beaches, an official release stated.
This year’s involvement further attests to Goa’s status as a year-round tourist destination that has something to offer every type of traveller at every time of year. The idea is for the Department to create focus on different types of tourism and sectors so that it will change what the state’s main tourism identity is and appeal to a diverse group of people who aren’t necessarily the same old, same old kind of tourists.
A Fresh Look at Goa’s Multi-Dimensional Tourism Offerings
Goa’s pavilion at the fair will showcase the state’s multi-dimensional tourism profile, breaking away from the traditional image of sun and sand. Goa is positioning itself as a destination that caters to all kinds of travelers, whether they are looking for spiritual renewal, wellness retreats, adventure-filled experiences, or immersive cultural encounters.
Among the key attractions highlighted at the Goa Pavilion will be spiritual tourism, where visitors can explore the state’s rich religious heritage through visits to iconic temples and churches. In addition, wellness and Ayurveda-based experiences will be a central feature of Goa’s offerings, allowing tourists to indulge in rejuvenating treatments that are an integral part of Goan culture.
Another unique aspect that will be showcased is adventure tourism. Goa is becoming increasingly recognized as a hotspot for adventure seekers, offering a variety of activities such as trekking, water sports, and wildlife exploration. The state’s monsoon tourism will also be emphasized, where travelers can enjoy the lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and serene environment that Goa uniquely offers during the rainy season.
Embracing Responsible and Sustainable Tourism
Goa’s tourism strategy is evolving to reflect a strong commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism. The Department of Tourism will highlight initiatives such as homestay and community-based tourism, which are gaining traction under Goa’s inclusive tourism policy. These programs aim to provide travelers with authentic local experiences while supporting local communities and promoting environmental conservation.
Sustainable tourism is not just a buzzword for Goa; it’s a core principle of the state’s future tourism plans. Goa is becoming increasingly focused on reducing the environmental impact of tourism and ensuring that growth benefits local people and preserves the natural environment.
Experiential Tourism and Cultural Calendar
Goa is not just about its natural beauty; it’s also a treasure trove of cultural experiences. At the Goa Pavilion, visitors will be introduced to the state’s rich cultural calendar. The state hosts a variety of vibrant festivals throughout the year, which are major attractions for experiential travelers. Events such as Sao Joao, Chikhal Kalo, Spirit of Goa, Shigmo, and Carnaval are integral to Goa’s cultural identity. These festivals celebrate local traditions, music, dance, and cuisine, offering a deep dive into the state’s heritage.
For travelers seeking authentic, immersive experiences, Goa’s cultural festivals provide the perfect opportunity to engage with the local way of life. Whether it’s the colorful processions during Carnaval or the joyous celebrations of Sao Joao, these events attract visitors looking to experience the true spirit of Goa.
Strengthening Ties with Gujarat and Beyond
The state’s participation in TTF Ahmedabad is of particular significance, as Gujarat is one of Goa’s key domestic source markets. The event offers an opportunity to strengthen engagement with travel trade partners in Gujarat and to attract a wider audience to Goa. With its rich tourism offerings and strategic location, Goa continues to draw significant interest from Gujarat, with many residents choosing Goa as their preferred travel destination for leisure, wellness, and adventure.
Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism for Goa, expressed the state’s excitement about the event: “Our participation at TTF Ahmedabad aligns with Goa’s vision to promote tourism that is immersive, inclusive, and sustainable. We are committed to engaging meaningfully with the travel trade community and highlighting the wide spectrum of experiences that Goa offers across all seasons. Gujarat remains a valuable market, and we look forward to welcoming more travelers who seek depth, culture, and renewal in their journeys.”
The Future of Goa Tourism
Goa continues to evolve as a dynamic and year-round destination, catering to a variety of tourist interests. The Department of Tourism’s presence at TTF Ahmedabad is just one example of how Goa is actively positioning itself as a diverse and sustainable tourism destination. The state’s focus on creating an inclusive environment, promoting responsible tourism, and offering varied cultural and adventure-based experiences is helping to build Goa’s future as a world-class destination.
With year-round tourism offerings, Goa is no longer just a seasonal getaway but a place that welcomes tourists throughout the year. Whether it’s the calming monsoon, the vibrant festivals, or the rejuvenating wellness experiences, Goa offers something for everyone. The future looks promising, as Goa sets its sights on becoming one of India’s top destinations for both domestic and international travelers.
Conclusion: Visit Goa at TTF Ahmedabad 2025
The Goa Pavilion at TTF Ahmedabad 2025 promises to be an exciting destination for travel professionals and visitors alike. Goa’s diverse tourism offerings, commitment to sustainability, and rich cultural experiences make it one of India’s most compelling and evolving destinations. The Department of Tourism invites all interested parties to explore new collaborations and discover why Goa continues to be an attractive choice for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation in equal measure.
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