Staff Reporter
Panaji
The Ekadasha Teertha initiative, uniting 11 revered temples into a single circuit for a rich cultural and spiritual experience, was showcased at the Temple Connect conference.
As part of Tourism’s spiritual initiatives, Rudreshwar Temple and the surrounding area near Harvalem Waterfall will be developed to enhance visitor experience. Additionally, Shree Saptakoteshwar Temple in Narve, a significant site
under the Ekadasha Teerth initiative, will undergo
infrastructure development to provide improved facilities for devotees and
visitors, the tourism department said.
A key highlight of the event was the announcement of ‘Gomant Sarita Poojan’, at the Sangam of the three significant rivers that meet each other – Mandovi, Zuari, and Valvanti at Narve, creating a serene and divine atmosphere for devotees and visitors.
The Government of Goa has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Uttarakhand, leveraging their expertise in conducting spiritual river ceremonies. This collaboration aims to establish Goa’s first river aarti, enhancing the state’s spiritual tourism appeal while promoting eco-conscious practices along its riverbanks.
The Temple Connect Conference, a three-day event celebrating India’s rich spiritual heritage, witnessed the state’s focus on Regenerative Tourism and how spiritual tourism can grow.
Speaking at the event, Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Tourism said, “Spiritual tourism is a vital part of Goa’s regenerative tourism model. With the Ekadasha Teertha initiative and the upcoming Gomant Sarita Poojan, we are committed to offering enriching experiences that blend faith, heritage, and sustainability. This initiative will not only elevate Goa’s spiritual landscape but also provide a unique cultural attraction for visitors worldwide.”
The Temple Connect Conference continues to serve as a platform for discussions on temple conservation, pilgrimage tourism, and heritage promotion, with Goa setting a precedent for integrating spiritual tourism with sustainable and community-driven practices, the department’s press note added.
