Uttarakhand Tourism Shatters Records with Over 6 Crore Visitors in 2025
In a historic milestone for the state, Uttarakhand has recorded its highest-ever tourist footfall in 2025, with visitor numbers crossing the six-crore mark for the first time since its formation on November 9, 2000. Official data reveals that the state welcomed a staggering 6.03 crore tourists during the year, including 1.92 lakh foreign visitors, surpassing the previous record of 5.96 crore set in 2023.
District-Wise Breakdown of Tourist Influx
The distribution of tourists across Uttarakhand highlights key destinations driving this growth:
- Haridwar accounted for the highest share, attracting 3.42 crore tourists, including all 1.92 lakh foreign visitors, solidifying its status as a major pilgrimage and cultural hub.
- Dehradun followed with 67.35 lakh visitors, benefiting from its scenic beauty and administrative significance.
- Tehri district emerged as a hotspot for adventure tourism, drawing 53.29 lakh tourists with its focus on water sports and outdoor activities.
Sustained Growth and Pandemic Recovery
Tourism, a key driver of Uttarakhand's economy, has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth in recent years. After a dip to two crore visitors in 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, numbers rebounded sharply:
- 2022: 5.39 crore tourists
- 2023: 5.96 crore tourists (previous record)
- 2024: 5.95 crore tourists
- 2025: 6.03 crore tourists (new record)
This upward trajectory underscores the state's appeal and effective tourism strategies.
Government Initiatives and Future Plans
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the government's commitment to promoting tourism year-round to ensure employment opportunities for residents and youth in the sector. He stated, "We gave top priority to their safety, along with increasing tourist facilities, and as a result, the increasing number of tourists in Uttarakhand is setting new records every year."
Tourism Secretary Dhiraaj Garbyal highlighted the state's significant potential, noting initiatives like Manaskhand aimed at developing the tourism sector in Kumaon. He added, "Now, people are coming to the state for winter tourism," indicating a diversification of tourist activities beyond traditional seasons.
This record-breaking performance not only boosts Uttarakhand's economy but also sets a benchmark for sustainable tourism development in the region.
