The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has unveiled plans to initiate a specialized bus service catering to religious tourism. This service is tailored for pilgrims journeying to the revered Chintpurni and Jawalamukhi temples, situated in the Una and Kangra districts of Himachal Pradesh. The service is scheduled to commence operations on October 21, as confirmed by officials.
Rohan Chand Thakur, the Managing Director of HRTC, highlighted that the ‘Pratham Darshan Seva’ bus service, encompassing routes from Chintpurni temple to Khatushyam temple, as well as Naina Devi temple to Baba Balaknath temple, is in the developmental phase. Moreover, Thakur emphasized that the HRTC is devising strategies to introduce new routes while amplifying the publicity of existing ones, including popular ones such as Shimla to Amritsar, Shimla to Chintpurni, and Shimla to Hatkoti temple.
With an astounding annual footfall of over 1.5 crore people to Chintpurni and Jawalamukhi temples, the objective is to provide pilgrims with a convenient and economical travel experience. The bus service is slated to operate seven days a week during the Navratri festival and subsequently on weekends, ensuring accessibility for devotees.
Commencing at 8 am from Dharamshala, the bus service will reach Chintpurni temple at 10.30 am, proceed to Jawalamukhi temple at 2 pm, and conclude its journey back to Dharamshala at 5.30 pm. Ticket reservations for this service have already commenced.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who oversees the transport department, had earlier outlined plans to establish a religious circuit within the state. Proposed bus services are envisioned to connect key pilgrimage spots like Chintpurni-Khatushyam, Baba Balaknath-Amritsar, and Baba Balaknath (Deyotsiddh)-Delhi, among other significant routes.
Himachal Pradesh boasts a rich tapestry of ancient temples, hosting five shakti peethas, including revered destinations such as Chintpurni, Barjeshwai Mata, Chamunda Devi, Naina Devi, and Jawalamukhi. These sacred sites attract throngs of devotees throughout the year, signifying the spiritual significance that pervades the region.
Learn about these HRTC Pilgrims Destinations
- Chintpurni Temple: Chintpurni Temple, located in Himachal Pradesh, is dedicated to Goddess Chintpurni, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. It is a significant pilgrimage site attracting devotees seeking blessings for fulfillment of desires and relief from worries, as “Chint” translates to worries. The temple is nestled amidst the picturesque Shivalik range and holds cultural and spiritual importance.
- Barjeshwai Mata Temple: Barjeshwai Mata Temple, situated in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, is dedicated to Goddess Barjeshwari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is steeped in legend and devotion, drawing devotees seeking blessings for prosperity, protection, and happiness. The vibrant festivities and serene location add to the spiritual charm of this sacred site.
- Chamunda Devi Temple: Chamunda Devi Temple, perched in the Kangra Valley, is devoted to Goddess Chamunda, a fierce form of Goddess Durga. This revered temple is renowned for its awe-inspiring architecture and spiritual ambiance. Devotees flock here to seek strength, courage, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
- Naina Devi Temple: Naina Devi Temple, located in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, a form of Goddess Durga. Perched on a hill, this temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Sutlej River. Devotees come here to seek divine blessings for prosperity, peace, and protection.
- Jawalamukhi Temple: Jawalamukhi Temple, situated in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, is dedicated to Goddess Jawalamukhi, the Goddess of the flaming mouth. It is a unique temple where natural gas emanates from the ground, symbolizing the eternal flame of the Goddess. Pilgrims visit to seek blessings for courage, devotion, and strength.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) plays a pivotal role in facilitating seamless travel to the revered pilgrimage sites of Chintpurni, Barjeshwai Mata, Chamunda Devi, Naina Devi, and Jawalamukhi. By offering bus services to these sacred destinations, HRTC ensures pilgrims have accessible and convenient transportation options for their spiritual journey. Travelers can book bus tickets through HRTC to reach these holy shrines, embarking on a pilgrimage imbued with faith and devotion. The corporation’s dedication to providing efficient travel services amplifies the spiritual experience for devotees, allowing them to focus on their prayers and seek blessings at these significant temples. Whether it’s seeking solace, spiritual enlightenment, or divine intervention, HRTC’s commitment to facilitating pilgrimages reinforces the deep-rooted cultural and religious fabric of Himachal Pradesh, ensuring a meaningful and fulfilling pilgrimage for all.