Kurukshetra’s tourism potential untapped despite rising footfall

Kurukshetra, often referred to as the ‘Heart of Haryana,’ continues to attract lakhs of tourists annually due to its deep spiritual and historical significance. However, despite government efforts and grand poll promises, the city’s transformation into a global religious tourism hub remains incomplete, plagued by slow development, project delays and inadequate modern amenities.

The International Gita Mahotsav (IGM) has undeniably boosted Kurukshetra’s visibility, drawing lakhs of devotees during the 18-day event. Sacred sites like Jyotisar Tirtha and Brahma Sarovar witness thousands of visitors daily. Yet, as evening falls, the city empties out due to a lack of attractions, limiting economic benefits for local businesses and the hospitality sector.

While the Kurukshetra Development Board (KDB) has undertaken infrastructure projects and religious tourism initiatives, challenges persist. One such setback is the Rs 202-crore Mahabharata-themed Interpretation Centre at Jyotisar, which has missed multiple deadlines, leaving a crucial gap in the city’s offerings.

Need for evening attractions, better facilities

Babu Ram Taya, president of the Hotel Association Kurukshetra, highlighted the hospitality sector’s struggle to benefit from year-round tourism.

“Besides a couple of hotels run by the Tourism Department, there are around 400 big and small hotels and restaurants in Kurukshetra. While major festivals like IGM and other religious fairs benefit the industry, routine tourism has not yielded the expected economic impact. Most tourists leave by evening due to a lack of attractions,” he explained.

Affordable accommodations in dharamshalas near Brahma Sarovar further reduce hotel stays. While the government is working to boost tourism, he stressed the need for evening attractions, permanent craft shops and boating facilities at Brahma Sarovar.

“Only Brahma Sarovar can’t hold tourists for long. Jyotisar is being developed with a light and sound show, but similar attractions should be introduced at Brahma Sarovar. Other Tirthas and the Shrikrishna Museum need new attractions and upgrades to encourage tourists to stay for more than a day. Only then will tourism truly benefit the local economy,” he added.

Delayed projects and development hurdles

Despite government initiatives, many proposed projects remain stalled. The much-anticipated multimedia laser show at Brahma Sarovar is yet to materialise. Plans to redesign chowks and entry gates in a Mahabharata theme remain on paper, making Kurukshetra visually indistinguishable from other Haryana cities.

An official from the Kurukshetra Development Board (KDB) acknowledged that slow decision-making and limited administrative power have hindered progress. Tourist Information and Facilitation Centres remain underutilised and the city still lacks well-maintained, affordable hotels and proper sanitation facilities. Traffic congestion further dampens the visitor experience. However, KDB CEO Pankaj Setia remains optimistic.

“Kurukshetra is being developed as a major tourist destination, and various efforts are underway to improve facilities and enhance visitor engagement. A light and sound show at Brahma Sarovar is in the pipeline, and we are training tour guides to offer tourists an authentic and engaging narrative of the city’s history,” he said.

Growing footfall and future prospects

Despite challenges, Kurukshetra’s tourist footfall has grown significantly over the past decade.

Madan Mohan Chhabra, chairman of the 48-kos Tirtha Monitoring Committee, highlighted the positive impact of IGM and tirtha development efforts.

“Before 2014, Kurukshetra saw around 2,000 to 2,500 visitors daily. Today, that number has surpassed 10,000 per day. The International Gita Mahotsav is now celebrated internationally, further boosting Kurukshetra’s global recognition. While development takes time, we are hopeful that increasing numbers will strengthen the local economy,” he said.

The government has also introduced community-driven initiatives. One Tourist Information and Facilitation Centre is set to be handed over to a women’s self-help group, while the KDB plans to operate tourist buses for better local transport.

However, experts believe that unless Kurukshetra follows a focused, time-bound development strategy, it risks falling short of its immense tourism potential, despite growing visitor interest.