Since the inauguration of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple on January 22, the demand for air travel between Bengaluru and Ayodhya has been consistently high. Airlines such as Air India Express and SpiceJet have been operating daily direct flights on this route, and the flights are reported to be almost fully occupied. Despite fares ranging between Rs 7,000 and Rs 11,000 for a one-way trip, the demand for flights to Ayodhya remains strong.
Both airlines have confirmed that they have not missed a single day’s schedule due to low capacity. An Air India Express spokesperson noted significant demand, particularly from group travelers interested in pilgrimages and religious tours, with the one-stop itinerary option also showing steady growth. The service was initiated on January 17, and the airline emphasized that they have not encountered any flights with low occupancy.
Rajeev Kale, President and Country Head of Thomas Cook (India) Ltd, mentioned a shift in demographics, stating that interest is no longer restricted to the seniors’ segment, with young working millennials and Gen Z in Bengaluru also showing interest in traveling to Ayodhya. This trend is not limited to Bengaluru, as other cities like Mysuru, Shivamogga, Hubballi, and Belagavi are also contributing to the surge in demand for travel to Ayodhya.
Daniel D’Souza, President and Country Head at SOTC Travel, highlighted a broader interest in places associated with the life of Lord Ram, including Hampi, Rameshwaram, and Madurai. “Temple tourism is experiencing a significant surge,” he stated, with itineraries now including elements such as a Ramayana trail, sunrise yoga sessions, exploration of hidden gems, engagement with local artisans, and food trails.
Overall, the demand for air travel to Ayodhya has not only remained robust but has also led to broader interest in exploring destinations linked to Lord Ram’s life. This trend reflects a growing appetite for religious and cultural tourism experiences among travelers, spanning various age groups and demographics.