*79,418 Buddhist Pilgrims Visited Kapilvastu in 2024; Rise in Foreign Tourist Footfall
*Kapilvastu Gaining Popularity Among Foreign Tourists-Jaiveer Singh
*More tourists, more livelihood opportunities- Mukesh Kumar Meshram
TTT NEWS NETWORK
LUCKNOW | 20 JULY 2025
Buddhist tourism in Uttar Pradesh is scaling new heights. In the year 2024, a total of 61,47,826 Buddhist tourists visited the state, out of which 79,418 explored Kapilvastu. In view of the increasing tourist footfall, the state government has sanctioned projects worth Rs. 6 crore for the development of tourism facilities in Kapilvastu, located in Siddharthnagar. The sanctioned projects aim to enhance infrastructure, build essential tourist amenities, and preserve important sites. This information was shared by Uttar Pradesh’s Minister of Tourism and Culture, Jaiveer Singh.
Notably, in 2024, Kapilvastu welcomed 79,418 Buddhist tourists, including 62,790 domestic and 16,628 foreign visitors. In contrast, only 26,805 tourists visited Kapilvastu in 2022, out of which just 98 were international tourists. This remarkable growth is a result of the concerted efforts of the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department. In continuation of these efforts, the department is now moving forward with tourism infrastructure projects worth Rs. 6 crore in Kapilvastu.
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh stated, “Kapilvastu was the childhood home of Lord Buddha, making it an immensely sacred destination for followers of Buddhism. The figures clearly show its growing importance as a Buddhist centre. The development of the Buddhist Circuit, enhancement of tourist amenities, and effective promotion campaigns have played a key role in this success. The state government’s vision is to firmly position Kapilvastu on the global religious tourism map through comprehensive development plans.”
He added that the upcoming projects are not just about attracting global tourists; they are equally focused on bringing tangible benefits to the local population. With rising footfall and upgraded amenities, local businesses including homestays, shops, eateries, and transport services are expected to flourish. Youth will gain opportunities through skill development programs such as foreign language and guide training, while artisans and vendors will find a wider market for their crafts. These improvements are set to generate local employment, stimulate entrepreneurship, and boost the rural economy, turning cultural heritage into a source of livelihood and pride for the common citizen.
Kapilvastu is one of the most significant sites associated with the life of Lord Buddha, who spent the first 29 years of his life here. It was the capital of the ancient Shakya Republic and the residence of Prince Siddhartha, who later became Gautama Buddha. Today, it serves as an important pilgrimage site for followers of Buddhism across the world. The location features several archaeological sites, including stupas housing relics of the Buddha. Situated 20 km from the district headquarters, it houses attractions like the Kapilvastu Museum, Peace Pagoda, Thai Monastery, and the ancient site of Tilaurakot.
In this regard, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Dharmarth Karya, Mukesh Kumar Meshram said, “Uttar Pradesh Tourism is promoting the state’s tourism policy by participating in international trade fairs, circulating informative publicity material domestically and overseas, organising and by familiarisation (FAM) trips, among other activities. The department regularly conducts special FAM trips for travel and tour operators, monks, social media influencers and media representatives from Buddhist-majority countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Japan, Lao PDR, Cambodia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Trained guides proficient in various foreign languages are also provided for the convenience of international visitors.”
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