ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued 154 visas to Indian Hindu pilgrims to visit Shree Katas Raj Temples in Punjab’s Chakwal District.
The High Commission in a statement on X said the pilgrims would attend religious rituals scheduled to take place from 24 February to 02 March 2025 at the temple.
@PakinIndia has issued 154 visas to a group of Pilgrims for their visit to the sacred Shree Katas Raj Temples in the Chakwal district, scheduled to take place from 24 February to 02 March 2025. @ForeignOfficePk
— Pakistan High Commission India (@PakinIndia) February 21, 2025
In December last year, Pakistan issued 84 visas to Indian nationals to visit the Katas Raj temples. During their stay, the pilgrims participated in key religious ceremonies, including Bhanu Saptami.
The issuance of the visas is in line with the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines, established in 1974.
Under the arrangement each year thousands of Hindu and Sikh pilgrims from India visit Pakistan to attend various religious festivals.
Facilities for Hindu Pilgrims at Katas Raj
In order to promote interfaith harmony and religious tourism, Pakistan last year constructed a modern residential facility at the historic Katas Raj Temple complex to facilitate Hindu pilgrims visiting the sacred Hindu site from India and other regions of the world.
The newly constructed residential block underscores Pakistan’s commitment to preserving sacred religious sites.
Constructed at a cost of Rs 183.510 million, the residential block is comprised of 36 rooms with attached washrooms, a kitchen, and a dining hall to ensure a comfortable stay for Hindu pilgrims. This initiative will enhance the experience for devotees visiting one of Hindus most sacred sites.
