Uttarakhand has witnessed an unprecedented tourism boom under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, with over 23 crore tourists visiting the state in the last three years. According to the Tourism Department, the combined rise in tourism and pilgrimage has given a massive boost to the state’s economy, turning it into one of India’s fastest-growing destinations for both spiritual and adventure travel.
Tourism Growth Across All Regions
The Dhami government’s consistent focus on infrastructure, safety, and hospitality has helped diversify Uttarakhand’s tourism landscape. Visitors are no longer limited to major spots like Nainital, Mussoorie, or Haridwar, but are now exploring lesser-known destinations across the Kumaon and Garhwal regions.
Adventure activities such as rafting, trekking, mountaineering, and bungee jumping have seen sharp growth, attracting domestic and international tourists alike. The surge has directly benefited local communities — particularly homestay operators, small hotel owners, transporters, and women’s self-help groups.
Currently, more than 6,000 homestays are operational across the state, many run by women entrepreneurs. Increased visitor flow has ensured steady income for local households and created thousands of jobs in allied sectors such as travel, food services, and handicrafts.
Pilgrimage Revival Strengthens State Economy
Pilgrimage continues to be a vital pillar of Uttarakhand’s tourism success. This year alone, more than 50 lakh pilgrims have visited the Chardham shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. The number of horse and mule operators on the Kedarnath and Yamunotri routes crossed 4,300, reflecting the scale of economic activity linked to religious tourism.
The state government has also begun promoting winter pilgrimages, ensuring year-round spiritual tourism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Adi Kailash earlier this year further boosted tourism in the Pithoragarh border region, putting new spiritual destinations on the map.
“Tourism is the Backbone of Our Economy”
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said tourism and pilgrimage have become the lifeblood of Uttarakhand’s economy. “Tourism directly benefits our local residents. Every visitor strengthens livelihoods in our hills. Under Prime Minister Modi’s guidance, we are working to make Uttarakhand an all-season tourism and pilgrimage destination,” he said.
With record tourist arrivals, expanding connectivity, and new spiritual circuits under development, Uttarakhand is fast emerging as India’s leading model of sustainable mountain tourism — a blend of faith, adventure, and livelihood.
