In a major move, OYO, a leading hospitality tech company, has announced the opening of 65 homestays and hotels in Ayodhya ahead of the Ram Temple consecration on January 22, 2024. This initiative comes in response to a significant 350 percent increase in searches for Ayodhya on OYO's platform in the past year, aiming to reshape the city's tourism landscape.
These newly introduced properties consist of 51 OYO homestays and 14 strategically located hotels, ready to accommodate the expected rise in visitors. OYO's expansion aligns perfectly with its commitment to offer affordable and comfortable stays, specifically designed for travelers exploring Ayodhya's rich religious and cultural heritage.
An essential part of this expansion is OYO's collaboration with the Ayodhya Development Authority and the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation, showcasing the company's dedication to supporting local economies and creating job opportunities in the region.
Brijesh Pathak, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, expressed excitement about OYO's expansion, highlighting its potential to enhance accommodation capacity and improve the overall pilgrim experience. He praised OYO's focus on local homestays, emphasizing its alignment with the mission to empower Ayodhya's residents and showcase the city's cultural heritage authentically.
Deepa Malik, Independent Director at OYO, emphasized the company's commitment to inclusivity by identifying 15 OYO homestays in Ayodhya equipped with ramps, making it convenient for diverse travelers, including those with disabilities.
Jaiveer Singh, Cabinet Minister for Tourism & Culture, Uttar Pradesh, commended OYO's dedication to affordability and quality. He expressed confidence that this collaboration will play a key role in boosting tourism and creating economic opportunities for the region.
Looking forward, OYO has ambitious plans to launch 400 properties in major spiritual destinations across India by the end of the year, including Ayodhya, Puri, Shirdi, Varanasi, Amritsar, Tirupati, Haridwar, Katra-Vaishno Devi, and the Char Dham route. This expansion reflects OYO's broader vision to contribute significantly to the growth and development of spiritual tourism in the country.
In conclusion, OYO's strategic expansion in Ayodhya not only caters to the needs of religious tourists but also makes a meaningful contribution to the overall development of the city's hospitality sector. As OYO continues to lead in providing affordable and quality accommodations, Ayodhya is poised to become a prominent destination for spiritual tourism under its thoughtful stewardship.