Himachal Pradesh to Build 12 Jyotirlinga Replicas in Mandi District

Himachal Pradesh embarks on an ambitious project to construct 12 jyotirlinga replicas at Shiv Dham in Mandi district. Discover the significance of these replicas and the state governments commitment to religious tourism.

The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) announced plans to construct 12 replicas of jyotirlingas, special shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, at Shiv Dham in Mandi district. An additional allocation of over Rs 11 crore has been approved for this project.

Progress and Funding

Raghubir Singh Bali, Chairman of HPTDC and a Congress MLA, shared the progress of the project during a press conference in Shimla. He revealed that four jyotirlinga replicas have already been completed, while work is underway on the remaining eight. The previous government had sanctioned approximately Rs 38 crore for the project and had spent Rs 16 crore. The current Congress government has allocated an additional Rs 11 crore, bringing the total budget to over Rs 33 crore. Tenders for the construction will be floated soon.

Addressing Irregularities

Bali also highlighted irregularities found in the work of the previous contractor, leading the state government to award the tender for Shiv Dham to a new agency. An investigation into the previous contractor's work is ongoing, and further details will be provided upon its completion.

Hotel Renovations

In addition to the Shiv Dham project, HPTDC plans to renovate its hotels. Hotel Peter Hoff in Shimla will undergo renovations in the first phase, with an allocated budget of Rs 11 crore. A tender for the renovation will be floated soon. Hotel Holiday Home in Shimla will also receive a facelift with an investment of Rs 5.5 crore.

The HPTDC's initiatives aim to enhance religious tourism and improve the hospitality infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh. The construction of jyotirlinga replicas at Shiv Dham and the renovation of hotels will provide visitors with a more enriching and memorable experience in the state.