India

Ayodhya Sees Surge in Tourism and Homestay Occupancy During Deepotsav

By Livemint

During the Deepotsav celebrations, Ayodhya was lit with more than 36 lakh earthen lamps, drawing a large crowd of visitors. Between November 1 and 7, the city welcomed about 15 lakh tourists, nearly double the 8 lakh who visited in the same period last year. Devotees visiting the Ram Lalla shrine also doubled, with almost 10 lakh arrivals compared to five lakh in 2025.

The influx of visitors boosted the local hospitality sector, especially family‑run homestays that reported full occupancy. Poonam Sonkar, who runs Poonam Homestay, said about 80 % of her rooms were booked during the festival, and she welcomed guests with the town’s popular Khurchan Peda. Room rates ranged from ₹1,000 to ₹1,200 per day, offering an affordable option for tourists.

Avinash Kusum, operator of Kusum Homestay, confirmed that his property was booked to capacity throughout the festive period. Families with children appreciated the freshly cooked food, lighter meal options for young ones, and the availability of hot water, making guests feel as if they were staying with relatives.

Shri Shivay Homestay, run by Praveen Mishra, also experienced strong demand even after all rooms were occupied. Mishra noted that tourists from Gujarat and other states valued the hospitality they received, and the additional business improved his family’s earnings.

The success of homestays has influenced the personal decisions of some owners. Rajkumari Tiwari’s son chose to stay in Ayodhya to help run The Rama Junction (B&B) instead of taking a job offer in Rajasthan, and the business created employment for two additional people. After her husband retired from the army, Tiwari’s homestay became a crucial source of income, with the property fully booked during Deepotsav and welcoming guests from across the country.

Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said the festival generated employment and livelihood opportunities beyond its religious significance. He noted that rising demand for homestays indicates that tourism’s economic benefits are reaching local households.

Additional Chief Secretary Amrit Abhijat highlighted that homestays are becoming an integral part of Ayodhya’s tourism ecosystem, allowing visitors to experience local food, traditions, and everyday life while enabling residents to earn through tourism.

The Deepotsav rush has shown the income potential for family‑operated homestays. If visitor numbers remain steady beyond the festive season, these small businesses could become sustainable sources of livelihood for local households.