The government of Uttarakhand has earmarked INR 1,000 crore for preparations related to the upcoming Haridwar Kumbh Mela as part of its 2026–27 budget, signalling a major push to strengthen the state’s spiritual tourism sector. The funding comes as the state prepares to host the Ardh Kumbh Mela in 2027, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
Uttarakhand Govt To Boost Spiritual Tourism
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Allocates INR 1000 Crore For Haridwar Kumbh Mela 2027
The budget allocation forms part of a broader plan by the administration of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to improve infrastructure, enhance pilgrimage facilities and promote Uttarakhand as a global hub for religious tourism. Officials say the investment will support preparations for the massive influx of devotees expected to arrive in Haridwar during the three-month-long festival.
In an official statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office as per ANI, the government emphasised the cultural and spiritual significance of the state. The statement noted that the sacred land of the Ganga River, Yamuna River, the revered Char Dham, Adi Kailash and several Shakti Peeths has long drawn devotees from across India and abroad.
“In this context, the state government is making efforts to promote Uttarakhand as a major hub for religious and spiritual tourism and pilgrimage, which is also expected to boost economic activities in the state,” the statement said.
Government Is Also Working On Manaskhand Temple Mala Mission
Apart from preparations for the Kumbh gathering in Haridwar, the government is also investing in infrastructure around 48 temples under the Manaskhand Temple Mala Mission. The initiative aims to improve connectivity, facilities and the overall pilgrimage experience across several important temple circuits in the state.
The budget also includes funds for multiple spiritual and cultural projects. Among them are development works for the Haridwar-Rishikesh Ganga Corridor and riverfront initiatives along the Saryu River. Additionally, ₹25 crore has been allocated for the historic Nanda Devi Raj Jat pilgrimage, which is held once every 12 years and draws thousands of devotees and trekkers.
The government has also set aside ₹10 crore to develop a Spiritual Economy Zone, a concept aimed at creating employment opportunities while strengthening the state’s identity as a major pilgrimage destination. Grants amounting to ₹28 crore have also been announced for traditional Sanskrit schools, supporting institutions that preserve classical learning and religious scholarship.
More About Haridwar Kumbh Mela 2027
Meanwhile, the upcoming Ardh Kumbh Mela in 2027 is expected to be one of the biggest religious gatherings in recent years. Scheduled to take place from January 14 to April 20, 2027, the festival will span nearly three and a half months in Haridwar. The dates are determined according to the Vikram Samvat calendar and specific astrological alignments involving the Sun, Moon and Jupiter.
The festival will begin on Paush Purnima, coinciding with Makar Sankranti, and conclude on Chaitra Purnima. Authorities expect more than 10 crore pilgrims to attend the gathering over its duration.
The 2027 edition will also mark a return to full-scale celebrations after the Haridwar Kumbh Mela in 2021, which was held under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic and saw restrictions on participation. With large-scale preparations already underway, officials hope the upcoming Ardh Kumbh will reaffirm Uttarakhand’s status as one of India’s most significant spiritual destinations.
