Major Revamp Planned for Kangra Shaktipeeths: Himachal Govt Begins Comprehensive Master Plan

The Himachal Pradesh government has initiated the development of a comprehensive master plan to upgrade and enhance the major Shaktipeeths and government-notified temples in Kangra district. Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa said that all Sub-Divisional Magistrates have been directed to expedite the preliminary processes required to begin the project.

He announced that experts from NIT Hamirpur have already been engaged to prepare the master plan for the Jwalaji Temple, one of the region’s most revered pilgrimage sites. The initiative aims to create a spiritually enriching and well-organized environment for the millions of devotees who visit these temples each year. The development strategy includes infrastructure improvements, upgraded tourist amenities, and structured interventions to promote religious tourism across the district.

Similar master plans will be prepared for the Chamunda, Brajeshwari, and Damtaal temples, in collaboration with specialized agencies, to ensure long-term upkeep and improved facilities for devotees. Bairwa also instructed officials to begin the ‘Vaan Ganga Aarti’ at Brajeshwari Dham and ensure proper maintenance of the Bhairav, Ashtabhuja, and Tara Devi temples in Jwalaji.

To modernize temple management while preserving traditional worship practices, the administration plans to introduce digital services such as online langar booking and online darshan in a phased manner. During a review meeting, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized strict monitoring of temple offerings, regular inspection of storage facilities, and swift action against encroachments on key temple routes to ensure smooth movement for pilgrims.

He also reviewed the gaushalas operated by temple trusts, urging speedy resolution of audit objections and the maintenance of consistent cleanliness. The meeting was attended by ADM Shilpi Becta, SDMs from various subdivisions, and officials from temple trusts.

NIT Hamirpur to Draft Jwalaji Temple Master Plan

NIT Hamirpur has been appointed to prepare the master plan for Jwalaji Temple, one of the most significant pilgrimage centers in the region. The development blueprint will include infrastructure upgrades, enhanced tourist facilities, and structured measures to promote religious tourism across Kangra district.

Similar master plans for Chamunda, Brajeshwari, and Damtaal temples will also be formulated in partnership with specialized agencies to ensure long-term sustainability and improved services for devotees.