As India continues to invest in its spiritual and cultural infrastructure, the temple ecosystem will play a transformative role, not just in boosting the economy but also in fostering cultural diplomacy and global understanding.
By Giresh Vasudev Kulkarni & Rajesh Mehta
The temple ecosystem in India plays a pivotal role in supporting the nation's vision of "Viksit Bharat 2047". This vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims to transform India into a developed nation by 2047 through comprehensive economic, cultural, and social progress. Temples, beyond their religious significance, serve as centers of cultural preservation, tourism, and economic activity, thereby contributing to India’s developmental goals. Temple tourism, enhanced travel infrastructure, and cultural exchanges are instrumental in boosting local economies and strengthening India's global image.
Temple tourism forms a substantial part of India’s tourism industry, attracting millions of pilgrims and spiritual seekers annually. This influx of visitors fuels local economies, generating revenue through accommodation, food, transport, and local businesses. Spiritual tourism accounts for nearly 60 per cent of domestic travel in India, with millions of domestic and international tourists visiting the country’s spiritual sites annually.
Economic impact of temple tourism
Temple tourism is a major driver of India’s tourism economy, contributing significantly to job creation, infrastructure development, and revenue generation. Key sites like the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor and Ram Mandir in Ayodhya are prime examples of how temple tourism can drive economic growth. The development of these sites has not only enhanced the visitor experience but also created thousands of jobs in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and transport.
For instance, the redevelopment of Kashi Vishwanath Temple has transformed Varanasi into one of the most visited cities in Uttar Pradesh, surpassing even Agra in tourist footfall. Similar corridors and temple heritage enhancement initiatives have been launched and efforts have been taken to standardize the same in various temple towns of our nation for greater penetration and awareness of the importance of the key temples, further leading to multiple opportunities in job creation, economics growth, and Infrastructural boost respectively.
This sector’s impact extends beyond immediate spending; it stimulates local economies by encouraging the growth of ancillary businesses such as hotels, restaurants, transport services, and local artisans. The construction of new hotels and improved connectivity has not only elevated the standard of living for local communities but also provided a sustainable income source for thousands
of families, aligning with the Viksit Bharat vision.
The PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) scheme by the Indian government aims to develop major pilgrimage sites, enhancing their infrastructure and accessibility. As of 2024, 46 projects have been sanctioned, out of which 20 are completed, showcasing the government’s commitment to leveraging temple tourism as a tool for economic growth.
Cultural diplomacy and the Indian diaspora
Temples are not just places of worship; they are also vital cultural hubs that strengthen India's soft power globally. In the United States, for example, Hindu and Jain temples serve as symbols of cultural heritage and community gathering points for the Indian diaspora. During his visit to a Jain temple in California, US State Department Assistant Secretary Donald Lu emphasized the critical role of Indian-Americans in fostering US-India relations. Temples provide a platform for cultural diplomacy, showcasing India's values of peace, non-violence, and compassion, which resonate deeply with global audiences.
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chicago. (Photo courtesy: usa.akshardham.org)
The burgeoning network of temples in the US, such as the recently inaugurated BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey, highlights how religious infrastructure can become a bridge between cultures. These temples attract not only Indian-Americans but also visitors from other communities, promoting cultural understanding and inclusivity. Such initiatives support both Viksit Bharat and "Viksit America" by strengthening bilateral ties through shared cultural values.
The Chandrodaya Mandir in Vrindavan is set to become a landmark of religious and cultural tourism. (Photo courtesy: vcm.org.in)
Enhancing heritage and cultural tourism
India’s temple ecosystem is deeply intertwined with its rich heritage and traditions. Temples act as custodians of centuries-old art, architecture, and rituals, drawing millions of tourists each year. For example, the Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir, a 70-story skyscraper temple under construction in Uttar Pradesh is set to become a landmark of religious and cultural tourism.
The unique project aspires to create a world-class iconic monument of Sri Krishna in the holy land of Vrindavan in pursuance of Srila Prabhupada’s direction. This temple will place Krishna proudly on the world mindscape and Vrindavan on the world map. This development not only enhances the local economy but also preserves cultural heritage, aligning with the larger goals of Viksit Bharat.
Boosting infrastructure and connectivity
Investments in temple infrastructure significantly enhance connectivity and accessibility, further bolstering the tourism sector. Improved roads, airports, and public amenities around temple towns make these sites more accessible to both domestic and international tourists. The development of key pilgrimage circuits under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme is an example of how focused
investment can lead to holistic regional development, benefiting local communities through job creation and enhanced living standards.
Moreover, the construction of facilities such as clean washrooms, information kiosks, and emergency services enhances the overall tourist experience, making temple tourism more appealing to a broader audience. This investment in infrastructure not only meets the needs of tourists but also fosters a sustainable environment that supports long-term growth.
Spiritual tourism: A modern perspective
The rise of spiritual tourism, which goes beyond traditional religious practices, is reshaping India’s temple ecosystem. This trend caters to younger generations seeking mindfulness and wellness experiences, such as yoga and meditation retreats. Spiritual tourism extends the appeal of temple visits, making them relevant to a diverse demographic, including millennials and Gen Z travelers. This shift not only increases tourist footfalls but also promotes India’s image as a destination for holistic well-being, aligning with global trends towards mental and emotional health.
Challenges and opportunities
While the temple ecosystem offers immense opportunities, it also faces challenges that need to be addressed to realize its full potential. Key issues include inadequate infrastructure, environmental concerns, and the need for multilingual tour guides. Sustainable development practices must be integrated into tourism planning to ensure that the cultural and environmental impacts are managed effectively. Addressing these challenges through targeted investments and policy support can help maximize the economic and social benefits of temple tourism.
Conclusion
India’s temple ecosystem is a critical asset in the nation’s journey towards Viksit Bharat. By enhancing tourism, preserving heritage, and supporting local economies, temples contribute to a multifaceted approach to national development. As India continues to invest in its spiritual and cultural infrastructure, the temple ecosystem will play a transformative role, not just in boosting the economy but also in fostering cultural diplomacy and global understanding.
Temples are not merely places of worship; they are vibrant centers of economic activity, cultural preservation, and international engagement. Leveraging their full potential will be key to achieving India’s vision of a developed and inclusive society by 2047.
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Giresh Vasudev Kulkarni is the founder of Temple Connect, the Indian Puja Company and The International Temple Convention and Expo.
Rajesh Mehta is an International Affairs expert working on areas like Market Entry, Innovation & Public Policy.
