Dehradun: Uttarakhand’s tourism sector is booming. In the last three years, more than 23 crore tourists have visited the hill state according to the state government. This surge in visitors has helped boost the economy, especially in areas like pilgrimage, adventure, wellness, and local businesses.
Tourism in Uttarakhand is no longer limited to popular cities like Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Nainital. Tourists are now exploring remote destinations such as Almora, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Rishikesh, and Pithoragarh, bringing income to small towns and villages. The rise in homestays, dhabas, and transport services has supported thousands of families.
Over 6,000 homestays are operating in the state
More than 6,000 homestay operators are now directly benefiting from tourism. Women self-help groups, local artisans, and transport workers have also seen better earnings. The government is encouraging winter tourism and promoting offbeat travel experiences to keep the momentum going throughout the year.
Pilgrimage tourism is a major contributor. The Char Dham Yatra—covering Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri—has attracted over 50 lakh pilgrims this year alone. In places like Kedarnath and Yamunotri, 4,300 horse and mule operators provided services to pilgrims, showing how tourism supports local livelihoods.
PM Modi frequent visits have also boosted spiritual tourism
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Adi Kailash in Pithoragarh has also boosted interest in spiritual tourism. The government is improving roads, building facilities, and making sacred sites more accessible to visitors from across India and abroad.
Adventure and wellness tourism is also contributing to this growth
Adventure tourism is also growing fast. Activities like rafting, trekking, mountaineering, and bungee jumping are attracting both domestic and foreign tourists. The Rishikesh-Auli-Manali corridor is now one of India’s top adventure zones.
Wellness tourism is another rising trend. Places like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun are becoming hubs for meditation, yoga, and spa retreats. Tourists are coming for peace, healing, and spiritual growth, making Uttarakhand a top destination for mindful travel.
Enhanced facilities also have a role in this growth
To support this growth, the government is investing in digital tourism platforms, modern transport networks, and public-private partnerships. International airlines and tour operators are helping bring more foreign tourists, especially from Asia and Europe.
The introduction of eVisa systems and better airport and road connectivity is making travel easier. The government is also focusing on eco-tourism, encouraging green practices like waste management and conservation to protect Uttarakhand’s natural beauty.
Tourism is the backbone of the state’s economy
Tourism is now the backbone of Uttarakhand’s economy, creating jobs and supporting small businesses. With strong government support and growing interest from travelers, Uttarakhand is set to become one of India’s most loved and sustainable tourist destinations.