TBM Staff - Mumbai
Qutub Minar has surpassed Agra Fort to become the second most visited monument by foreigners in India in 2023-24, according to data from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Qutub Minar, a 13th-century architectural marvel, saw a remarkable 90.9% year-on-year increase in foreign visitors, totaling 220,017, and a 73.1% boost in domestic visitors, reaching 3.12 million. This surge in footfall is attributed to improved maintenance, enhanced visitor amenities, and the introduction of a captivating laser light show.
In contrast, Agra Fort has experienced a decline in visitor numbers due to neglect in upkeep, lack of modern conveniences, and the closure of key attractions like the Sheesh Mahal. The fort saw an 18% decrease in domestic visitors, totaling 1.41 million, as many tourists opt to focus solely on the nearby Taj Mahal.
The lesser-known Chand Baori stepwell in Abhaneri, Rajasthan, has also gained prominence among foreign tourists, surpassing even the Red Fort and Fatehpur Sikri in popularity, with a 144.8% year-on-year increase in foreign visitors, totaling 96,080.
The shifting dynamics in tourist preferences highlight the importance of continual upkeep, modern amenities, and innovative attractions in maintaining the appeal of historical sites. Qutub Minar’s rise to prominence is a testament to how strategic enhancements can reinvigorate interest and draw visitors from around the globe, enriching India’s cultural tourism landscape.
