EasyMyTrip, a household name in travel tech, is setting its sights on Ayodhya, India, with an ambitious plan to invest a whopping Rs1bn ($12.5m) in a luxury hotel project. This venture, in partnership with Jeewani Hospitality, marks a significant pivot towards enhancing the city's accommodation offerings, particularly for religious tourists flocking to the recently inaugurated Shree Ram Mandir.

The upcoming five-star hotel promises not just luxury but a strategic location that's less than a kilometer away from Shree Ram Mandir. This proximity is expected to be a major draw for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the spiritual essence of Ayodhya.

With religious tourism in Ayodhya on a steep upward trajectory, recording 1.439 billion tourists in 2022, EasyMyTrip's investment comes at an opportune time. The sector is anticipated to burgeon into a Rs59bn industry by 2028, creating upwards of 140 million jobs. This hotel project is not just an investment in bricks and mortar but a testament to the faith in Ayodhya's burgeoning potential as a spiritual hub.

Nishant Pitti, CEO and co-founder of EasyMyTrip, shares the vision behind the investment, emphasizing the dual goal of offering opulence and peace in the heart of Ayodhya. With the city gaining momentum as a key destination post the establishment of the Ram Temple, attracting over 2.4 million visitors, the move is poised to cater to a segment yearning for premium hospitality experiences.

This announcement follows EasyMyTrip's positive financial performance, showcasing a 9.6% jump in net profit in the December quarter of fiscal year 2024. The venture into Ayodhya's hospitality sector aligns with the company's broader strategy to diversify its offerings and tap into new markets, mirroring the industry's overall momentum towards expanding in pilgrimage cities.

The move sees EasyMyTrip joining ranks with other hospitality players like OYO, which recently expanded its footprint in Ayodhya, signaling a growing interest in the city's hospitality market. Additionally, EasyMyTrip's recent stake acquisition in Eco Hotels and Resorts further underscores its commitment to sustainable and expansive hospitality ventures.