(GulistanNewsTv) : The Mata Kheer Bhawani shrine in Tullamulla, Ganderbal, achieved a significant milestone in 2024, welcoming 2.14 lakh pilgrims, surpassing the 1.9 lakh visitors recorded in the previous year. This growing influx highlights the shrine’s increasing spiritual and cultural significance, along with its potential as a major religious tourism destination in Jammu and Kashmir.

Chief Patron Zahoor Bhat emphasized that the record-breaking turnout reflects the shrine’s profound spiritual importance. He called for the development of Tullamulla as a tourism hub, stressing the need for improved infrastructure to accommodate the rising number of devotees.

Manzoor Wani, convenor of Civil Society Tullamulla, urged for better facilities to enhance the pilgrim experience. “Improved road connectivity, expanded parking, upgraded restrooms, and enhanced accommodation are essential to cater to the increasing number of visitors. These developments will not only benefit pilgrims but also boost tourism in the region,” he said.

Shujat Rashid, Chairman of Civil Society Tullamulla, expressed gratitude to the Ganderbal district administration for designating Tullamulla as a tourist village. However, he underscored the importance of translating this designation into actionable development. “Our society remains committed to promoting peace, humanity, and brotherhood while ensuring the well-being of pilgrims,” he stated.

The calls for infrastructure upgrades underline the necessity of sustainable development to support the shrine’s growing prominence. With collaborative efforts from civil society and local authorities, Tullamulla is poised to become a thriving hub for spiritual tourism, enriching the experience of visitors and driving regional growth.

This milestone not only showcases the shrine’s enduring spiritual appeal but also highlights the need for a strategic approach to preserving and enhancing its status as a key pilgrimage site. (GulistanNewsTv)