CHAKWAL, Pakistan: In order to promote interfaith harmony and religious tourism, Pakistan has constructed a modern residential facility at the historic Katas Raj Temple complex in Chakwal district of Punjab province to facilitate Hindu pilgrims visiting the sacred Hindu site from India and other regions of the world.
The newly constructed residential block underscores Pakistan’s commitment to preserving sacred religious sites.
Constructed at a cost of Rs183.510 million, the residential block is comprised of 36 rooms with attached washrooms, a kitchen, and a dining hall to ensure a comfortable stay for Hindu pilgrims. This initiative will enhance the experience for devotees visiting one of Hinduism’s most sacred sites.
Pakistan’s Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain, who inaugurated the project, emphasized the significance of Katas Raj as a symbol of Pakistan’s commitment to interfaith harmony and peace.
The minister called for an increase in the current annual quota of 200 Indian pilgrims permitted to visit the site, highlighting the importance of expanding opportunities for religious tourism.
Where are the Katas Raj Temples located?
In the spectacular Potohar region near Chakwal in Punjab, Pakistan, the Shri Katas Raj Temple stands as one of the most sacred sites in Hindu mythology.
This temple complex, surrounded by natural beauty, is dedicated to various Hindu deities.
The ancient Katas Raj Temple stands as a timeless testament to over 1500 years of Hindu faith, culture, and history.
Locally known as Amin Katas Raj, this sacred cluster of twelve beautifully crafted temples has been a source of spiritual comfort, inspiration, and awe for countless Hindu pilgrims and visitors throughout the centuries.
Settled in a serene landscape, the temples are not only a symbol of Hindu religious devotion but also a remarkable reflection of the rich cultural heritage and architectural mastery of the past.
A Legacy of Katas Raj Temple
At the heart of the Katas Raj complex lies the sacred ‘Amrit Kund Pond,’ a site deeply rooted in Hindu mythology.
This pond was formed from the tears of Lord Shiva, who wept for the loss of his beloved wife, Sati. The name “Katas” is derived from the Sanskrit word Kataksha, meaning “teary eyes,” a tribute to Shiva’s mourning.
It is believed that the site was visited by the Pandawa brothers of “Mahabharta” fame where these brothers are said to have spent time in their exile, adding to the historical significance of of the location.
Katas Raj is not only sacred to Hindus but also holds importance for other faiths.
Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, is believed to have visited this sacred site, which became a hub for sages and spiritual seekers over centuries.
Facilitating Religious Tourism
Pakistan has been taking steps to promote religious tourism to attract more and more visitors to explore diversity in the South Asian country.
Taking part in WE News Programme Perspectives, Pakistan’s Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said that the government of Pakistan wants to intensify its efforts to create a welcoming environment for Hindu and Sikh pilgrims from around the world including India, aiming to enhance religious tourism in Pakistan.
She said that easy visa procedures and improved infrastructure are making travel to sacred sites easier and more accessible.
She remarked that pilgrims and tourists visit not only to fulfill their rituals but also to explore Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Speaking to the media, the caretaker of the Katas Raj Temple, Pandit Neem Chand, said that a large number of Hindu pilgrims, both from within the country and around the world, visit the temple to perform their rituals.
He also shared that there are 12 temples in Katas Raj, but currently, only one is open to pilgrims, where devotees from across the globe come to carry out their sacred rites.
Chaudhry Salik Hussain also called for an increase in the current annual quota of 200 Indian pilgrims permitted to visit the site, highlighting the importance of expanding opportunities for religious tourism.
The Minister’s remarks come as India is reluctant to increase the number of Pakistani pilgrims to attend annual Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Syed Moinuddin Hasan Chishti (RA) at Ajmer Sharif.
The Minister also acknowledged that even if India does not increase the number of Pakistani pilgrims to Ajmer Sharif, Pakistan would increase the quota of Indian pilgrims to visit the country.
