IntrCity SmartBus, a leading tech-enabled intercity bus network in India, has launched a dedicated traveller lounge in Tirupati, marking a strategic move to strengthen infrastructure across high-demand pilgrimage routes.
The newly inaugurated facility, located near the RTC Bus Stand area, is designed to enhance convenience for pilgrims by offering amenities such as luggage storage, shower facilities, and changing rooms. The initiative aims to improve the overall travel experience, particularly for passengers arriving after overnight journeys.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, India recorded over *1.43 billion domestic visits to religious destinations in 2022, generating nearly *₹1.34 lakh crore in revenue*. More than 60% of tourism activity in the country is linked to religious travel, with the sector projected to reach *$59 billion by 2028, driven by better connectivity, infrastructure upgrades, and growing interest in pilgrimage tourism.
IntrCity SmartBus noted that a significant number of travellers reach Tirupati during early morning hours, creating a strong demand for facilities where pilgrims can freshen up before proceeding for darshan.
Tirupati, home to the renowned *Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, is among the world’s most visited pilgrimage destinations. The temple witnesses daily footfall of **60,000 to 80,000 devotees, with annual visits estimated between *30 and 40 million, making it a key hub for religious tourism in India.
Commenting on the launch, Manish Rathi, Co-founder and CEO, IntrCity SmartBus, said,
“Travel demand is consistently high in pilgrimage corridors like Tirupati, particularly on overnight routes connecting major cities. As more travellers shift towards organised intercity bus networks, there is a growing opportunity to enhance the surrounding travel ecosystem. The Tirupati traveller lounge is part of our effort to strengthen traveller service infrastructure in key pilgrimage destinations.”
With spiritual tourism gaining renewed momentum in destinations such as Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Tirupati, the need for improved last-mile connectivity and traveller-centric infrastructure is becoming increasingly critical.
IntrCity SmartBus currently operates on over 630 routes across 15 states, connecting major pilgrimage destinations including Ayodhya, Varanasi, Shirdi, and Tirupati. The company continues to expand its presence in response to rising demand for organised and technology-driven intercity travel.
