Rajasthan’s Pilgrimage Circuit Scheme Gaining Popularity

Ajmer,  Amidst the grandeur of the world-renowned Pushkar Fair, the three-day Khatu Shyam Janmotsav — celebrated with deep devotion and joy in Sikar district, the land of “Haare Ka Sahara, Khatu Shyam Hamara” — witnessed an overwhelming influx of devotees.

Saturday marked the main day of the festival, with thousands of devotees from across the country arriving at Khatu Dham to offer prayers and seek blessings. The sacred premises of Shyam Dham were decorated magnificently with fragrant flowers, and devotees extended heartfelt greetings on the auspicious occasion.

The Khatu Shyamji Temple, located in Rajasthan’s Sikar district, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. It is believed to be the place of worship of Barbarik, the valiant son of Ghatotkach from the Mahabharata era, who was blessed by Lord Krishna with the divine name “Shri Shyam.” The Khatu Fair, held annually during the month of Phalgun, attracts nearly 15 to 20 lakh devotees from across the nation. The vibrant festivities, including devotional music, chariot processions, and Nishan Yatras, add to its grandeur.

It is estimated that over one crore devotees visit Khatu Shyamji every year for prayers and rituals.

To further promote religious tourism, the Government of Rajasthan has launched the “Teerth Darshan Circuit” scheme in recent years. Continuous improvements in roads, accommodation, and facilities have resulted in a steady rise in the number of pilgrims. In the 2024–25 state budget, the government announced the construction of a Khatu Shyam Corridor modeled after the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, with a proposed allocation of ₹100 crore. The project aims to enhance pilgrim amenities, streamline the darshan process, and strengthen traffic and parking management.

Additionally, under the Government of India’s Swadesh Darshan 2.0 initiative, a ₹87.87 crore project covering 19 development works has been sanctioned, with a completion target of March 2026. Alongside Khatu Shyamji, a development plan for Salasar Balaji Dham is also in the pipeline, focusing on infrastructural upgrades and improved transportation networks.

Together, the devotion of Khatu Shyamji, the faith of Salasar Balaji, and the spiritual power of Mehandipur Balaji have made Rajasthan a unique confluence of faith and tourism.

Known for its heritage, valor, and vibrant culture, Rajasthan also stands as a beacon of religious and spiritual tourism. Its sacred destinations — Khatu Shyamji, Salasar Balaji, Mehandipur Balaji, Pushkar’s Brahma Temple, Nathdwara’s Shrinathji Temple, Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Ranakpur Jain Temple, and Mount Abu’s Dilwara Temples — draw millions of devotees and visitors every year.

In 2024 alone, Rajasthan welcomed 23.01 crore domestic tourists and approximately 20.72 lakh international visitors, reflecting its growing appeal as a heritage and spiritual tourism hub.