Kashi welcomed a record 7.26 crore visitors in 2025

Varanasi drew a record of more than 7.26 crore visitors through 2025, according to the Uttar Pradesh government — a milestone that underlines the city's emergence as a global spiritual-tourism hub. Officials credit the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, the beautification of the Ganga ghats, restored temples, better roads and improved visitor facilities for the surge. The footfall has rippled out to boatmen, guides, hotels, eateries and handicraft sellers across the old city, broadening livelihoods well beyond the temple precincts. With new connectivity arriving alongside the crowds, the city is working to keep the experience smooth even as numbers climb.

Compiled by HelloBanaras from public sources: The Economic Times