religious tourism

As pilgrim traffic surges in the Himalayas, faith, fragile mountains and unchecked growth are on a collision course

India's temple towns are experiencing a real estate boom, driven by increased religious tourism and government infrastructure investment. Developers are now blending spirituality, wellness, and second-home living, creating new development paradigms rooted in cultural identity and long-term human movement.

R.S. Murugan of TVK secured victory in the Ottapidaram (SC) constituency during the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, defeating S Subramanian (DMK) and Thachai N Ganesharaja (AIADMK) by a margin of 11,414 votes. Meanwhile, Nainar Nagendran of BJP currently holds the Tirunelveli Assembly seat, having won in 2021.

Telangana's Congress government is investing heavily in temple development and festivals, a move seen as a strategy to counter the BJP's religious politics. While Congress highlights its secular approach, including support for other religious events, the BJP accuses the ruling party of being anti-Hindu, citing alleged temple desecrations.

DMK candidate M. Abdul Wahab secured victory in the Palayamkottai Assembly election by a margin of 13,805 votes. The urban constituency in Tirunelveli district faces challenges including water supply, traffic, and job creation, alongside its strengths in education and healthcare.

The newly constructed Ganga Expressway, spanning 594 km from Meerut to Prayagraj, is set to revolutionize tourism, industry, and agriculture in Uttar Pradesh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the expressway on April 29, significantly reducing travel time and boosting economic opportunities across the region.

Magadh University has launched its first systematic archaeological excavation at the ancient site of Dubba in Gaya, a location believed to be on the historic pilgrimage route between Bodh Gaya and Sarnath. Following ASI permission, the university's team is exploring the site, hoping to uncover insights into ancient settlements and Buddhist traditions in the region. Work will continue post-monsoon.

Saudi Arabia has implemented stringent new penalties, including hefty fines and deportation for foreign residents, for attempting to perform Hajj without an official permit. These measures aim to enhance pilgrim safety and manage overcrowding during the annual pilgrimage, with strict enforcement beginning from Dhu Al Qi'dah.

Odisha chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the civilisational link between Somnath and Lingaraj temples, calling them twin pillars of India's heritage. Speaking at the 'Somnath Swabhiman Parva' in Bhubaneswar, he emphasized India's resilience and cultural resurgence, referencing the reconstruction of Somnath and national heritage projects. Majhi pledged his government's commitment to strengthening Odisha's cultural and religious infrastructure.

Ramgarh administration is accelerating the redevelopment of Maa Chinnamastika Temple at Rajrappa, promising enhanced facilities for devotees. Following an anti-encroachment drive that cleared 254 shops, plans are underway for temple beautification, new gates, parking, and a market. Forest land is being allocated for parking, with the Jharkhand High Court monitoring the project's progress.

In an ambitious move to promote sustainable tourism, Bihar's Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary unveiled eco-tourism initiatives at Dhol Pahadi and Uchcheshwar Nath Dham in the Munger district. The impressive Rs 1,249 crore investment aims to modernize Dhol Pahadi into a vibrant tourism hub, featuring upgraded amenities and a majestic Shiv statue.

Ichak, once a vibrant capital of the Ramgarh Raj, now faces alarming neglect. Hundreds of ancient temples, ponds, and gardens, remnants of a rich cultural past, are in disrepair and encroached upon. Despite its historical significance and architectural marvels like the Singh Dwar, Ichak lacks basic infrastructure, hindering its potential as a heritage tourism destination.