The second Global Spiritual Tourism Conclave, set for August 27, 2025, will take place at Ujjain, famous for the Mahakaleshwar Temple. It hopes to reshape the spiritual tourism sector for the country. Attendees from places like Ayodhya and Varansi will arrive at this ancient city for this special occasion. The event will consider the impact of contemporary innovations such as AI and VR on the devotee’s experience vis-a-vis the preservation of culture and heritage.

The conclave is organized by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) with the Ministry of Tourism and Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board. aims to gather spiritual and business leaders, along with officials from the government. This year’s event ‘Ruhmantic’ is expected to spark discussions on the blend of tradition and technology in tourism.

Technology Meets Tradition: The Key Focus of the Conclave

The Global Spiritual Tourism Conclave aims to examine the growing role of emerging technologies in spiritual tourism. With the increasing interest in pilgrimages to India’s sacred destinations like Varanasi, Rishikesh, Amritsar, and Tirupati, the need for sustainable and efficient management of tourism infrastructures has become vital.

The government-industry roundtable, chaired by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, will address critical issues such as infrastructure enhancement for spiritual sites, responsible hospitality, and the promotion of cultural heritage in a modernised tourism landscape. One of the central themes will be integrating AI and VR into spiritual experiences, making holy sites more accessible to a global audience while ensuring that their sanctity and traditions are preserved.

Exploring Spiritual Economics and Wellness Tourism

The conclave will also feature discussions on the economic impact of religious tourism. The session ‘Temple Economies: Where Faith Meets Livelihood’ will explore how pilgrimage circuits, including the ‘Jyotirlinga Circuit’, influence local economies and contribute to the livelihoods of people in surrounding communities. These temple economies play an essential role in sustaining not only the religious but also the cultural ecosystem of these sacred locations.

Another highlight of the conclave will be the session on wellness tourism, titled ‘Mind, Body and Soul: Wellness as the New Spiritual Frontier’. With India’s long tradition of yoga, Ayurveda, and meditation, spiritual journeys are increasingly being merged with wellness tourism. Delegates will explore how yoga and holistic therapies can complement the spiritual experience, drawing more travellers seeking both mental and physical healing.

Unveiling the Spiritual Tech Revolution: Virtual Pilgrimages and Digital Access

A key area of discussion will focus on spirituality in the digital age, with the ‘Divine in the Digital – Spirituality 2.0’ session. Here, the role of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and AI in reshaping the spiritual tourism landscape will be explored. Pilgrims, especially those unable to travel, will have the opportunity to experience virtual pilgrimages, allowing them to explore temples and sacred sites in an immersive, digital environment.

With India’s rich spiritual heritage, the potential for these technologies to provide more inclusive access to religious sites is immense. Digital access to live darshan (viewing of deities) and online prayer services are just the beginning of a digital revolution for spiritual tourism in India. Such technologies not only offer convenience but also support sustainable tourism by managing visitor numbers at crowded religious sites.

The Cultural and Spiritual Significance of the Jyotirlinga Circuit

The ‘Guardians of the Sacred Axis – The Jyotirlinga Circuit’ session will delve into one of the most important spiritual pilgrimages in India: the twelve Jyotirlingas. This sacred pilgrimage holds immense cultural and spiritual value, drawing millions of pilgrims each year. The discussion will examine how best to balance heritage preservation with modern urban development, ensuring that these sacred spaces remain revered while accommodating growing numbers of visitors.

The Jyotirlinga Circuit is not only a physical journey but a deeply spiritual one. Delegates will look at the cultural significance of the temples involved and the importance of their role in India’s spiritual geography.

While Ujjain is a safe city for tourists, especially those visiting for spiritual reasons, it’s important to be mindful of certain safety precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit:

Tips for Tourists Attending the Conclave in Ujjain

1. Dress Modestly:

As Ujjain is a prominent spiritual destination, dressing modestly is highly recommended, especially when visiting temples. Covering shoulders, arms, and legs out of respect for local customs will make you feel more at ease and allow you to participate fully in rituals.

2. Beware of Crowds:

During religious events, temples and ghats in Ujjain can get crowded. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places like the Mahakaleshwar Temple and around the Simhastha Kumbh Mela areas. Be aware of pickpockets and always store your valuables in a secure place.

3. Stay Hydrated:

The summer months in Ujjain can be hot, so it’s essential to stay hydrated, particularly when walking long distances between temples. Carry a bottle of water with you, and make use of the water stations at most public places.

4. Follow Temple Etiquette:

Each temple in Ujjain may have its own set of customs. For example, shoes must be removed before entering temples, and donations are often expected in the form of cash or offerings. Be respectful of these practices, and always follow the guidelines provided by temple authorities.

5. Use Trusted Transport:

If you need to travel within Ujjain or visit surrounding spiritual sites, use trusted taxis or government-approved transport services. Avoid using unregulated or private transport services to ensure your safety.

6. Health Precautions:

While Ujjain is generally a clean city, be mindful of the water quality, particularly when drinking from public sources. Always buy bottled water or drink from known safe water outlets. For those with specific health conditions, it’s recommended to carry your medication and consult local healthcare providers if necessary.

7. Stay in Safe Accommodations:

Choose accommodations near the event venues or temples for ease of access. Stick to well-known hotels or government-approved guesthouses that offer good security and cleanliness. Verify reviews from reliable sources to ensure a safe stay.

8. Respect Local Customs:

Ujjain is deeply rooted in spirituality, so always be mindful of local customs and practices. Speak quietly inside temples, avoid taking photos where prohibited, and be respectful when engaging with local worshippers and spiritual guides.

Shaping the Future of Spiritual Tourism

Ujjain is all set to hosting The Global Spiritual Tourism Conclave which aims to reimagine India’s spiritual tourism. The need for modernization and technology is at the forefront of this conclave. The goal is to provide spiritual travel as a modernized experience while preserving India’s deep-rooted traditions. The use of AI, VR, and wellness travel puts the conclave in a position to broaden spiritual tourism making it easier for everyone in a more modern way.

The conclave will be a centerpiece for thought leaders, the government, and industry executives, which will broaden the scope for faith-related tourism in India.