Qutub Minar Claims New Fame , Outshining Agra Fort among Foreign Visitors in 2023-24

Saturday, July 13, 2024

According to a recent update from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Qutub Minar has surpassed Agra Fort to become the second most visited monument by foreigners in 2023-24, following the renowned Taj Mahal. The 13th-century Qutub Minar, an architectural gem from the Delhi Sultanate era, has gained notable popularity among international tourists.

For many years, Agra Fort, situated near the Taj Mahal, was a prime attraction. However, Qutub Minar recently experienced a significant increase in visitor numbers, with a 90.9 percent rise in foreign tourists, reaching 220,017, and a 73.1 percent increase in domestic visitors, totaling 3.12 million. This boost is attributed to enhanced maintenance, improved facilities, and new offerings such as a captivating evening laser light show, akin to those at international landmarks like the Burj Khalifa.

In contrast, Agra Fort has seen a drop in visitors, influenced by inadequate maintenance, the absence of modern amenities like cafes and gift shops, and the closure of major features like the Sheesh Mahal. Although there was a plan to revive the fort’s sound and light show, with a budget set and a trial run conducted last year, the reopening scheduled for September 27, 2023, fell through.

Consequently, Agra Fort witnessed an 18 percent decline in domestic tourists, with only 1.41 million visitors, as many chose to visit only the nearby Taj Mahal, the top tourist site in India. The changing tourist trends highlight the critical role of continuous improvement, modern amenities, and innovative attractions in preserving the allure of historical sites. Qutub Minar’s successful enhancements serve as a testament to how strategic upgrades can boost interest and attract global visitors, thereby enriching India’s cultural tourism sector.

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