Prayagraj: the state is expanding the tourism experience to some of its lesser-known ancient temples, giving visitors more opportunities to explore Sangam City’s spiritual heritage.Four historic Lord Shiv temples in the district are being developed and beautified under projects worth ₹5.74 crore, covering Patharbandhi Mahadevalaya in Jasra (₹1.94 crore), the ancient Bholegiri Temple (₹1.87 crore), Bolan Mahadev Temple (₹97.61 lakh) and the ancient Shivala Temple in Ghinpur (₹94.39 lakh), with a focus on better visitor facilities and improved temple precincts.Tourism and Culture minister Jaiveer Singh said, “Prayagraj’s spiritual identity extends beyond the Sangam, with many ancient temples carrying a rich religious and cultural legacy. Our focus is to develop these lesser-known pilgrimage sites with better facilities while preserving their traditional character. These efforts will give visitors more opportunities to explore Prayagraj’s wider spiritual landscape and strengthen religious tourism in the region.”The development works include multipurpose halls, pilgrim sheds, entrance gateways and corridors, providing better spaces for visitors to rest, wait and participate in religious activities. Platforms and RCC benches are also being added to make the temple premises more comfortable, particularly for elderly devotees, women and other visitors.To improve movement within the temple complexes, stamp-finished pathways are being developed, while decorative lighting and landscaping are being introduced to enhance the surroundings and improve the visitor experience.Signage and directional boards are also being installed to help visitors navigate the temple complexes and locate key facilities. At some sites, halls are being renovated, mural work is being undertaken and sandstone arches are being created for the Shivlings, adding to the traditional character and visual appeal of the temple premises.ACS (Tourism) Amrit Abhijat said, “The projects are aimed at bringing these ancient temples into the wider tourism circuit of Prayagraj while preserving their historical and spiritual identity. By improving basic amenities, access and the overall visitor environment, the initiative seeks to encourage tourists and pilgrims to explore destinations beyond the city’s better-known pilgrimage centres.”
