11 cr tourists flocked to MP in 2023: Govt

Bhopal: With Madhya Pradesh welcoming over 11 crore (110 million) tourists, the state has become an important tourist destination in the country. In 2023, the state had also created a new record. This remarkable achievement is a significant milestone in Madhya Pradesh's tourism industry. It has surpassed pre-Covid level and established the state as a premier tourist destination in India. Interestingly, May 24 marks the establishment of Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (MPSTDC), which is also observed as Madhya Pradesh Tourism Day. Last year, Madhya Pradesh saw a significant increase in tourist numbers, with 11.21 crore (112.1 million) visitors, a notable rise from 3.41 crore (34.1 million) tourists in 2022.

Ujjain, known as one of holiest cities, has become a top tourist spot in Madhya Pradesh, attracting more than 5.28 crore (52.8 million) pilgrims and tourists. Among the top ten most visited places in Madhya Pradesh, five are famous religious sites like Ujjain, Maihar, Chitrakoot, Omkareshwar and Salkanpur, indicating the increasing interest in spiritual tourism. Significant initiatives such as Mahakal Lok in Ujjain and Ektma Dham in Omkareshwar have been instrumental in drawing a larger number of tourists to Madhya Pradesh. Sheo Shekhar Shukla, principal secretary (tourism) MP Tourism Board, said, “The record-breaking tourist arrivals are a testament to Madhya Pradesh's immense appeal as a diverse and enriching travel destination. The continuous emphasis on developing infrastructure, promoting religious tourism, and highlighting our distinctive cultural heritage has played a key role in drawing visitors from all over India and the world. Our dedication lies in improving our tourism offerings even more and guaranteeing that Madhya Pradesh continues to be a preferred destination for travellers in search of memorable and enriching experiences.” Madhya Pradesh offers a diverse range of experiences to various types of travellers, including history buffs, nature enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and adventure enthusiasts. The state of Madhya Pradesh provides a wide array of attractions such as ancient forts, serene temples, wildlife sanctuaries and cultural festivals, making it a perfect destination for travellers looking for a memorable experience. Madhya Pradesh is gaining recognition in global tourism sector. The state welcomes travellers to explore and discover its unique beauty, culture, and hospitality.Shukla said, “The surge in tourism has had a positive impact on Madhya Pradesh's economy, generating employment opportunities, boosting local businesses, and contributing to overall infrastructure development. The state government's commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure, promoting cultural heritage, and showcasing the state's natural wonders has been instrumental in driving this growth.”
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