Abstract
For centuries past, Kashmir has been considered as one of the holiest lands of India. It was a land of Parvati in ancient India and later became Rishi Bhumi. Pilgrimage tourism sites of various religions are spread throughout the length and breadth spots of Buddhists spread in the far and vide of this Gulistan (Garden), Amarnathji Cave, Kheer- Bhawani Temple, Mattan Temples, Shankaracharya Temple, etc, are among the main Hindu Pilgrimage spots of the Valley. Pilgrimage spot of Sikhism, like, Chatti Padshahi, Chhevin Patshahi Param Pillan, Patshahi Pehli, etc, are frequently visited by Sikhs from within and outside India. For Muslims, Hazratbal Shrine, Charar-e-Shareef Shrine, Baba Rishi Shrine, etc, are the revered places for pilgrimage. In addition, many legends are attached with some religious spots located in the Valley of Kashmir and much more is still to be explored. The research paper has been presented in two parts, analytical profile of pilgrimage in Kashmir and the second is evaluation of infrastructure at the pilgrimage sites. The survey at the sites and discussion with pilgrims and management of the pilgrimage sports brought into sight the deficiencies in services at these spots. Based on the findings it was suggested that Public Private Partnership (PPP) should be done in constructing accommodation infrastructure and the J&K TDC should be involved in providing food and catering outlets at the pilgrimage sites of Kashmir.
Keywords: Pilgrims, Pilgrimage, Kashmir, PPP-public private partnership
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