The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India (Northern Region), successfully organised a Conference on Spiritual Tourism and Meditation at the Swarved Mahamandir Dham in Varanasi on November 27, 2024.
The event aimed to highlight Varanasi’s unique position as a hub for spiritual tourism and to promote meditation as a key attraction for domestic and international tourists.
Dr. R. K. Suman, Regional Director (North), addressed the conference, emphasising its significance, “Varanasi, being a spiritual epicentre, attracts millions of domestic and international tourists annually. This conference aims to further enhance Varanasi’s position as a prime destination for spiritual tourism and meditation.”
The session was held with the divine blessings of Sant Pravar Shri Vigyandeo Ji Maharaj and was attended by more than 100 participants, including high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Tourism, tour organisers, professors and students from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), and other dignitaries.
The event featured distinguished speakers, including Sushil Singh, Chairman of ADTOI (UP Chapter); Rahul Mehta, President of the Tourism Welfare Association (UP); Dr. Ajay Singh, Past President of the Guide Association Varanasi; Pawas Prasoon, Manager of India Tourism, Varanasi; and Praveen Singh Rana, Academic Representative from BHU.
The conference also explored innovative strategies to strengthen Varanasi’s global appeal as a spiritual destination and discussed collaborative efforts among various stakeholders in the tourism sector.
The Ministry of Tourism reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. This conference marks a significant step toward harnessing the potential of spiritual tourism in India, with Varanasi at its epicentre.
, addressed the conference, emphasising its significance, "Varanasi, being a spiritual epicentre, attracts millions of domestic and international tourists annually. This conference aims to further enhance Varanasi’s position as a prime destination for spiritual tourism and meditation."){kind=link}