Overview

Atlys, a visa processing platform, reports a 21.4% increase in inbound travel to India for spiritual purposes, primarily driven by the ongoing Mahakumbh along with other major festivals. Over the past decade, there has been a steady rise in global interest in spiritual tourism, positioning India as a leading destination due to its rich spiritual heritage and diverse cultural landscape.

Mahakumbh Gathering

The Mahakumbh festival, one of the largest religious gatherings worldwide, is currently attracting an estimated 42 million pilgrims and occurs once every 144 years. Atlys data indicates that nearly 48% of all spiritual travel visa applications are connected to significant events and pilgrimages like the Mahakumbh.

Visitor Insights

This increase in visa applications is predominantly driven by travelers from the UK and USA, highlighting a global fascination with the spiritual offerings of India. Additionally, there is a noticeable demographic shift: while older generations traditionally led spiritual travel, millennials are now taking the lead in this trend, comprising 66% of this segment, particularly women—signifying a broader shift towards female-led spiritual exploration.

“India’s spiritual legacy has always captured global attention, but we are observing a growing embrace of these sacred journeys by travelers seeking meaningful experiences,” said Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys. “The Mahakumbh and similar festivals are no longer limited to traditional pilgrims; they attract a wider audience pursuing adventure and self-discovery.”

Conclusion

According to Atlys data, group inbound travel applications have surged by 35%, reflecting a growing preference for communal spiritual experiences. Key spiritual destinations like Varanasi, Rishikesh, and Haridwar continue to dominate tourist preferences. Local authorities are enhancing infrastructure and accommodation options around these key sites to ensure a seamless experience for international visitors.