Pakistan Grants 154 Visas to Indian Pilgrims for Katas Raj Temples Visit

Report By Syed Farzand Ali

The High Commission of Pakistan in New Delhi has issued 154 visas to a group of Indian pilgrims to visit the sacred Shree Katas Raj Temples in Chakwal, Pakistan. The pilgrimage is scheduled to take place from February 24 to March 2, 2025 under the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines (1974).

Pakistan’s Commitment to Promoting Interfaith Harmony

Speaking on the occasion, Charge d’Affaires Saad Ahmad Warraich extended his best wishes to the pilgrims, hoping for a spiritually fulfilling journey.

> “Pakistan remains committed to strengthening interfaith harmony and facilitating religious tourism. We continue to uphold our long-standing tradition of welcoming pilgrims from across the border,” he stated.

The issuance of visas aligns with Pakistan’s policy of promoting cultural and religious exchanges, ensuring that Sikh, Hindu, and other religious communities from India can visit their sacred sites in Pakistan.

Significance of Katas Raj Temples

The Katas Raj Temples hold immense religious significance for Hindu devotees. The temple complex, believed to date back to the Mahabharata era, is associated with Lord Shiva and is revered for its historical and spiritual importance. The site’s sacred pond, known as Katas Kund, is considered holy by devotees, who believe that its waters possess spiritual cleansing properties.

Religious Pilgrimages Under the 1974 Protocol

Under the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines (1974), thousands of Indian pilgrims visit Pakistan annually to participate in various religious festivals and pilgrimages. Similarly, Pakistani pilgrims also travel to India for religious purposes.

Pakistan has consistently facilitated visa issuance and pilgrimage arrangements, ensuring that visitors can access their holy sites without hindrance.

Strengthening People-to-People Ties

The pilgrimage to Katas Raj Temples is another step in fostering mutual respect and cultural exchange between the two neighboring countries. By enabling access to religious sites, Pakistan continues to promote peace, harmony, and regional cooperation.

The group of Indian pilgrims is expected to arrive in Pakistan on February 24, 2025, where they will engage in religious rituals and ceremonies at the historic Katas Raj Temples before concluding their visit on March 2, 2025.