With preparations for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027–28 gaining momentum, policymakers, tourism leaders, temple authorities, hospitality stakeholders and spiritual organisations convened in Shirdi for रूहmantic: PHDCCI’s 3rd Global Spiritual Tourism Conclave to discuss the future of spiritual tourism in Maharashtra and India. Organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, Maharashtra Tourism, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and the Shree Saibaba Sansthan Trust, the conclave attracted over 300 delegates from across the country.
Inaugurating the event, Bhuvnesh Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, highlighted that spiritual tourism is deeply rooted in India’s civilisational identity and offers immense opportunities for sustainable development. He emphasised the need to create integrated tourism circuits connecting Maharashtra’s Jyotirlingas, Shakti Peeths and other sacred destinations while leveraging technology and digital solutions to enhance visitor experiences. He also stressed the importance of sustainable destination management, including cleanliness, crowd control, infrastructure development and collaboration between government and industry to preserve the authenticity of pilgrimage sites while accommodating rising visitor numbers.
Neelesh R. Gatne, IAS, Managing Director, MTDC, announced plans to strengthen collaboration with the Shree Sai Baba Sansthan Trust to improve tourism infrastructure and develop curated pilgrimage circuits that encourage longer stays and deeper cultural engagement. Goraksha Gadilkar, IAS, CEO of the Trust, underscored Shirdi’s growing international appeal, noting that devotees from more than 61 countries visit the shrine annually. Mangesh Joshi, IAS, Director of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra, said the state’s preparations for Simhastha extend beyond the event itself, with a focus on creating long-term tourism assets that position Shirdi, Nashik and Trimbakeshwar as an integrated global spiritual circuit.
A major highlight of the conclave was the release of the PHDCCI-KPMG report, “From Darshan to Destination: The Transformation of Spiritual Tourism in India,” which explores evolving pilgrim expectations, sustainability, technology adoption and destination planning strategies.
The day featured insightful sessions on leveraging Simhastha as a catalyst for regional development, creating immersive round-the-clock spiritual experiences, conserving sacred architecture and integrating wellness with faith-based travel.
