Islamabad – Pakistan has issued visas to a group of Indian pilgrims to visit the historic Katas Raj temples, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site located in Punjab’s Chakwal district. The visas were granted under the framework of the 1974 Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines, which allows devotees from both countries to visit sacred sites.
According to the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, the pilgrims will travel to Pakistan to perform religious rituals at the ancient Katas Raj temples, which hold significant spiritual importance in Hindu mythology. The temple complex, known for its sacred pond, is believed to be associated with Lord Shiva and attracts pilgrims from across the region.
Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to facilitating religious tourism and promoting interfaith harmony. This visa issuance follows similar arrangements made for Sikh pilgrims visiting Gurdwaras in Pakistan, including Kartarpur and Nankana Sahib.
The visit comes amid strained diplomatic relations between the two neighboring countries. However, religious tourism initiatives continue as part of efforts to uphold cultural and religious exchanges.
