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Uttarakhand's tourism sector has gained significant momentum owing to robust infrastructure development, enhanced healthcare services, and improved accessibility. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami has been actively implementing the AYUSH Policy 2023, aimed at transforming the state into a hub of wellness and health tourism. The spiritual significance of the Char Dham Yatra, coupled with modern facilities for pilgrims, is fuelling growth in footfall. Focused efforts on high-altitude healthcare, road connectivity, and medical emergency readiness are reshaping the state's appeal as a holistic destination for spiritual and wellness-based experiences.
Often described as Devbhoomi, or the Land of the Gods, Uttarakhand has long been a revered destination for spiritual journeys. Key pilgrimage sites such as Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri collectively known as the Char Dham continue to draw lakhs of devotees each year, providing spiritual solace amidst the majestic Himalayas. Advertisement
The Char Dham Yatra holds deep religious importance for Hindus, particularly the temples at Kedarnath dedicated to Lord Shiva, Badrinath to Lord Vishnu, and Gangotri and Yamunotri to goddesses Ganga and Yamuna. These revered sites, located in the high-altitude regions of Chamoli district, attract millions annually, making it one of India?s most spiritually significant circuits.
Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, under the direction of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has been promoting the AYUSH Policy 2023, which envisions transforming Uttarakhand into a global centre for health and wellness tourism. This policy is designed not only to preserve the sanctity of spiritual traditions but also to integrate holistic health services.
It was mentioned in reports that Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, meditated in this region, which is renowned for its snow-clad peaks and glacial beauty.
To address health concerns faced by pilgrims due to high-altitude conditions, the state administration has introduced advanced medical infrastructure. During the 2023 Char Dham Yatra, more than 425 doctors, including specialist teams from institutions like AIIMS Rishikesh, were deployed across routes such as Badrinath and Kedarnath to ensure medical readiness.
Apart from routine health checks, special attention was given to those with respiratory and heart-related issues. In total, 35 health relief outposts and 97 medical response teams were stationed along the pilgrimage routes. Emergency air services, including 17 advanced life-support ambulances and a critical care unit at Tehri, were also made available.
The Char Dham Yatra, once purely religious, now exemplifies how spiritual experiences can be elevated through improved accessibility, robust healthcare, and visionary policies. The sustained efforts of the state government towards infrastructure, health, and holistic development reflect a future-ready model that other regions could emulate. As the spiritual and wellness tourism trend grows globally, Uttarakhand appears well-positioned to lead the way.
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