Bhagwant Mann: In a significant boost to Punjab’s spiritual tourism and welfare initiatives, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s government has expanded the Mukh Mantri Teerath Yatra Yojana by adding three new pilgrimage routes. AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal highlighted the development during a religious gathering in Talwara, Hoshiarpur, underscoring the state’s commitment to making sacred journeys accessible to citizens, particularly senior citizens.
The new routes will take devotees to prominent Hindu pilgrimage sites
Salasar Balaji Dham and Khatu Shyam Ji in Rajasthan, Haridwar and Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, and Mathura-Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh. These join the existing circuits covering Darbar Sahib, Durgiana Temple, Valmiki Temple in Amritsar, and Anandpur Sahib with Naina Devi Temple. Kejriwal announced that bookings for the new routes are expected to commence from August 1, with the government aiming to facilitate nearly 1.5 lakh pilgrims.
The Punjab government fully funds travel in comfortable Volvo buses
Bhagwant Mann: Accommodation, meals, and darshan arrangements. Pilgrims, mainly aged 50 and above, need only carry personal clothes for the multi-day trips. Kejriwal emphasised the communal joy of group travel, where participants sing bhajans and kirtans together, creating memorable spiritual experiences. Many previous travellers have shared positive feedback about the well-organised tours.
The expansion reflects the AAP government’s broader efforts to promote religious harmony and cultural values across communities. Since its launch, the scheme has already enabled over 2.4 lakh devotees to undertake pilgrimages, with strong participation from areas like Dhuri in Sangrur district. The government has spent around ₹103 crore so far, demonstrating substantial investment in public welfare.
This initiative aligns with other steps, including temple developments and cultural events like devotional programs and plays based on the Ramayana. As bookings open, officials expect an enthusiastic response from devotees eager to explore these sacred destinations free of cost. The move is seen as a balanced approach blending governance with respect for diverse faiths in Punjab.
