Maha Kumabh 2025 causes a 21.4% increase in applications for Indian visas for spiritual tourism

Maha Kumabh 2025– With 42 million pilgrims drawn to India for important religious occasions like Mahakumbh, inbound spiritual tourism has increased by 21.4%. Younger generations, particularly women, make up the majority and are looking for fulfilling experiences. There has been a 35% increase in group travel for spiritual reasons. Better facilities surrounding pilgrimage sites improve tourists’ experiences and solidify India’s standing as a leading spiritual destination.

Atlys, the top visa processing platform, reveals that inbound travel to India for spiritual reasons has increased by 21.4% in recent news reports. Large religious celebrations like Mahakumbh and other significant festivals, which attract millions of tourists annually, are the main drivers of this trend.

As of right now, major pilgrimages and events like the Maha Kumbh are associated with about 48% of all visa applications for spiritual travel. One of the biggest religious events in the world, the Maha Kumbh is now taking place and is expected to attract 42 million pilgrims. This unique festival, which takes place once every 144 years, offers both domestic and foreign tourists a chance to engage with India’s rich spiritual legacy.

There has also been a significant surge in the number of spiritual tourists from nations like the US and the UK, many of whom are looking for genuine and transformative experiences. This shift is being driven by women, who make up 66% of millennial spiritual travelers. A notable change in the visitor demographic is evident in the growing number of younger generations choosing spiritual and purposeful getaways over conventional tourist pursuits.

An other recent development in spiritual tourism is the 35 percent rise in interest in group spiritual experiences. On group outings, tourists can interact with like-minded individuals and create a sense of belonging while taking part in traditions and ceremonies at sacred sites.

Top spiritual destinations

Over the past few years, spirituality tourism in India has been steadily increasing. Some well-known locations that helped fuel this expansion include Varanasi and Rishikesh, which welcome millions of tourists each year who come to meditate by the glittering Ganges, witness the nightly aarti, or stroll along the classic ghats.

Improved infrastructure

Authorities have improved the facilities and lodgings around important pilgrimage sites  to handle the constant influx of spiritual tourists. In keeping with India’s mission to welcome spiritual seekers from all over the world, these advancements contribute to making the experience far more comfortable and accessible.

India is establishing itself as a major destination for spiritual tourism, as seen by the record-breaking attendance at events like the Maha Kumbh and the growing interest in its spiritual heritage around the world. India will continue to be a spiritual hub for many years to come thanks to improved infrastructure and changing travel patterns.