Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Among The Most Visited Monuments In India

In a recent survey by the Delhi Economic Survey 2023-24, landmarks such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb emerged as the top 10 centrally-protected monuments in the country, boasting the highest domestic footfall until February 2023.

Presented by Delhi's finance minister, Atishi, the survey shed light on the monumental foot traffic within the capital.

In 2023 alone, the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, welcomed an impressive 22.01 lakh domestic visitors. The fort, an architectural marvel from the Mughal era, stands as a symbol of India's rich history and cultural heritage.

Closely following suit, Qutub Minar, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, witnessed 15.24 lakh visitors. This towering minaret, constructed in the early 13th century, is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions, representing the pinnacle of Indo-Islamic architecture.

Humayun's Tomb, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drew 10.81 lakh visitors in 2023. This majestic mausoleum, built in the mid-16th century, is renowned for its elegant design and lush garden setting, serving as a precursor to the architectural wonders of the Taj Mahal.

Delhi secured the fourth position among all states and Union Territories in terms of attracting foreign tourists, hosting 8.20 lakh international visitors in 2022.

The survey also highlighted the primary international entry points for foreign tourists arriving in the city, which included Delhi Airport, Mumbai Airport, Haridaspur Land Check Post, Chennai Airport, Bengaluru Airport, Hyderabad Airport, Cochin Airport, and Kolkata Airport.

Despite fluctuations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the trend of rising domestic tourism in Delhi from 2012 to 2019 was evident, with a significant surge in numbers. However, there was a notable decline in domestic tourist footfall in 2021, with only 1.06 crore visitors recorded.

Delhi continues to stand as a beacon for cultural heritage and historical significance, drawing visitors from across the globe to witness its rich tapestry of iconic monuments and landmarks.

(With inputs from PTI)