Himachal Pradesh inaugurates inaugural religious circuit bus route from Dharamshala to Chintpurni-Jawalamukhi

Himachal Pradesh has introduced its first religious circuit bus service, connecting Dharamshala to Chintpurni Mata Temple and Jawalamukhi Temple. The bus departs from Dharamshala at 8 am, reaching Chintpurni Mata Temple by 10:30 am, Jawalamukhi Temple at 2 pm, and returns to Dharamshala at 5:30 pm. This initiative aims to provide comfortable and affordable travel options for pilgrims and tourists visiting these religious destinations.

Inaugural launch of religious circuit bus

The inaugural ceremony of this religious circuit bus service took place with the participation of Managing Director of Himachal Roadways Transport Corporation (HRTC), Rohan Thakur, and Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kangra, Nipun Jinal. This new route is part of a larger plan to redesign routes for 100 such buses under the 'darshan' scheme, as outlined by Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri.

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Additionally, another bus service from Chintpurni Mata to Khatushyam in Rajasthan is set to commence on October 23, with more routes planned for the future. The goal is to improve connectivity and convenience for travelers visiting these religious sites, which collectively attract over 1.5 crore (15 million) visitors annually.

Pricing and Sugam Darshan

The day-long tour on the 3X2 AC bus costs ₹400 per person. The service facilitates 'darshan' (viewing of deities) at Jawalamukhi and offers 'sugam darshan' at Chintpurni. 'Sugam Darshan' provides a pass for VIP darshan, allowing pass holders to skip the regular queue for darshan. A maximum of 500 such passes are issued per day.

Himachal Pradesh is home to numerous ancient temples and five shakti peethas, including Chintpurni, Barjeshwari Mata, Chamunda Devi, Naina Devi, and Jawalamukhi Maha Shaktipeeth, attracting thousands of devotees throughout the year. This new bus service aims to enhance the overall experience for pilgrims and tourists visiting these sacred places.

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