Spiritual Travel
China, India, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Pakistan, and More Boost Asia-Pacific Religious Tourism, Market Projected to Reach Over Twenty Three Billion USD by 2034
Friday, April 18, 2025
The Asia-Pacific religious tourism market is poised for substantial growth, with projections showing its value will increase from USD 7.94 billion in 2024 to a remarkable USD 23.37 billion by 2034, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.4%. This growth is driven by rising demand for spiritual journeys, expanded pilgrimage sites, and the increasing popularity of cultural and heritage tourism throughout the region.
The Rise of Religious Tourism in Asia-Pacific
Religious tourism has long been a key component of Asia-Pacific’s rich cultural and spiritual legacy. The region, home to some of the world’s most revered spiritual destinations—such as India, China, Japan, and Thailand—continues to attract millions of travelers seeking spiritual fulfillment, pilgrimage experiences, and cultural enrichment. By 2024, religious tourism in Asia-Pacific is expected to reach USD 7.94 billion, highlighting a thriving and expanding sector that blends both spiritual and cultural tourism.
Key Drivers of Growth in Religious Tourism
The projected growth of the Asia-Pacific religious tourism market can be attributed to several factors, including a surge in both international and domestic travelers seeking authentic spiritual experiences. Pilgrimages to sacred sites, such as the Ganges River in India, Mount Kailash in Tibet, the Golden Temple in Amritsar, and Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka and Thailand, are gaining popularity. These destinations not only attract religious tourists but also those interested in the broader cultural and historical significance.
Moreover, the expanding middle class, growing disposable incomes, and an increasing interest in wellness and spiritual travel are boosting demand for religious tourism. The post-pandemic recovery has particularly seen a resurgence in travelers seeking to reconnect with their spiritual roots, making Asia-Pacific an ideal destination for these transformative journeys in the coming years.
Key Trends Shaping the Religious Tourism Industry
1. Investment in Pilgrimage Infrastructure: Governments and private enterprises are heavily investing in the development and enhancement of pilgrimage sites. This includes upgrading infrastructure, improving transportation, and expanding accommodation options to accommodate the rising number of religious tourists. These investments aim to enhance the overall visitor experience and ensure the sustainability of the industry.
2. Integration of Technology: The digital transformation of religious tourism is well underway, with online platforms and digital tools becoming an essential part of the experience. Tourists can now easily book pilgrimages, plan visits, and explore sacred sites. Virtual tours and augmented reality (AR) are also gaining traction, allowing travelers to engage with religious and historical locations remotely, which further fuels interest in visiting these sites in person.
3. Sustainability and Responsible Tourism: As the tourism industry grows, so does the focus on sustainability. Both tourists and local authorities are becoming more aware of the environmental and cultural impacts of mass tourism. Sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly travel options, responsible waste management, and the preservation of sacred sites, are gaining prominence in the region’s religious tourism offerings.
4. Rise of Wellness and Spiritual Travel: The increasing demand for wellness-focused travel is another significant factor contributing to the expansion of religious tourism. Yoga retreats, meditation workshops, and spiritual healing programs are attracting wellness tourists who also seek to experience the region’s deep spiritual heritage. This holistic approach to travel is driving an influx of visitors interested in both physical and emotional well-being.
The Future of Religious Tourism in Asia-Pacific: Opportunities and Challenges
The outlook for religious tourism in Asia-Pacific is optimistic, with significant growth opportunities. However, there are challenges that need to be addressed to ensure sustainable development. These challenges include managing the impact of overtourism on sacred sites, ensuring accessibility for all tourists, and maintaining the cultural and spiritual integrity of destinations as demand continues to grow.
To capitalize on these opportunities, collaboration between government bodies, tourism boards, hospitality providers, and local communities is essential. Strategic partnerships, investments in infrastructure, and the promotion of responsible tourism practices will be crucial in maintaining the region’s position as a global leader in religious tourism.
Market Segmentation of Religious Tourism in Asia-Pacific
By Type:
- Day trips and local gateways
- Museums
- Pilgrimages
- Religious and heritage tours
- Others
By Tour Type:
- Independent travelers
- Tour groups
- Package travelers
By Booking Channel:
- Online bookings
- Offline bookings
By Age Group:
- 15 to 25 years
- 26 to 35 years
- 36 to 45 years
- 46 to 55 years
- 66 to 75 years
By Country:
- China
- India
- Japan
- Thailand
- Indonesia
- Pakistan
- Rest of Asia-Pacific
Conclusion
The Asia-Pacific region is set to become a major hub for religious tourism in the next decade. The sector’s projected growth is driven by the increasing demand for spiritual and cultural experiences, coupled with investments in infrastructure, technological advancements, and sustainable practices. As the market continues to evolve, it will be essential for all stakeholders to work together to ensure that religious tourism grows responsibly, maintaining the integrity of sacred sites while providing enriching experiences for visitors.
Spiritual Travel
First spiritual tourism roadmap for Isfahan bazaar planned
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.
Spiritual Travel
IHCL to Hit 400 Hotels as Sports, Religious Travel Drive Demand
Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) reported a profitable first quarter Thursday, with stable margins despite headwinds from international flight disruptions and the fallout from the terror attack in Pahalgam and subsequent conflict with Pakistan.
What stood out, however, was the pace of expansion: IHCL is expanding its footprint through new hotel signings, acquisitions, and deeper bets on spiritual and event-driven tourism.
IHCL signed 12 new hotels and opened six during the quarter. It now operates 249 hotels, with another 143 more in its pipeline.
“We are nearing the milestone of a 400-plus hotels portfolio. We remain confident of achieving this milestone during this month itself,” CEO Puneet Chhatwal
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