Forty crore pilgrims and tourists from across the country and abroad are expected to attend Mahakumbh-2025, to be held on the sandy banks of Sangam starting January 13, 2025. Even before the event, the number of tourists in Prayagraj has already seen a significant rise, as confirmed by the state tourism department’s data. Pilgrims at Sangam in Prayagaraj (File) According to the regional tourism department in Prayagraj, over 5 crore tourists visited the city in 2023. In the first six months of 2024 alone, more than 4.5 crore tourists have already visited Sangam city. Additionally, 4,266 foreign tourists visited Prayagraj last year to experience its rich historical, cultural, and religious splendor. This year, in just six months, the number of foreign visitors has reached 3,894, according to the data. Similarly, 14,37,674 Indian tourists stayed in the city’s hotels last year, along with 2,771 foreign tourists. This year, in just six months, 19,41,426 Indian tourists have stayed in hotels, and the number of foreign guests has increased to 3,960, officials confirm. “Historical and religious places in …