Mubashir Aalam Wani
Srinagar, Jul 23: With the union government’s renewed emphasis on spiritual tourism, stakeholders in Kashmir’s tourism industry are expressing optimism about the potential growth and opportunities in the region.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Tuesday continued her push to improve spiritual tourism infrastructure as she announced two new corridors connecting ancient Vishnupad and Mahabodhi temples in Bihar, on the lines of UP’s Kashi Vishwanath Temple corridor.
Tourism players in Kashmir believe that the region’s numerous shrines, temples, and mosques, coupled with its serene environment, make it an ideal destination for spiritual tourism.
They said the focus on spiritual tourism is seen as a promising avenue to attract a different segment of travellers—those seeking spiritual solace and enlightenment.
Spiritual tourism has immense potential in Kashmir. Our region is home to many significant spiritual sites, and with the government’s support, we can offer unique experiences to tourists seeking spiritual journeys. This initiative will help us showcase the spiritual and cultural richness of Kashmir to the world,” said former president Travel Agents Association of Kashmir Farooq Ahmad Kuthoo.
He said the tourism department and stakeholders have worked hard to promote Kashmir as a spiritual destination.
“We have been taking up the matter with the department for the last one decade. Even we receive tourists who like to explore shrines and temples of Kashmir. Kashmir is known as “Resh Wa’er” which means an abode of saints. So, we have a great scope of catering to pilgrimage tourism in future,” Kuthoo said.
Pertinently, spiritual or religious tourism is gaining pace within India, with a huge chunk of tourists travelling to various cities and hill destinations for spiritual bliss.
