TIRUPATI: The Srikalahasteeswara Devasthanam has submitted a ₹114.06 crore development proposal to the Union Ministry of Tourism under the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme. The project aims to enhance the temple’s facilities and boost tourism by providing improved amenities and attractions for pilgrims.
The proposed plan includes constructing a ropeway connecting Bharadwaja Tirtham, Kannappa Hill, and Kanakachalam Hill, developing the Swarnamukhi River banks, and creating a grand stone enclosure (Maha Prakaram). The initiative, in collaboration with the State Tourism Department, seeks to address the current lack of amenities and scenic spots that lead many visitors to leave shortly after their visit. By improving infrastructure and overall visitor experience, the project aims to encourage longer stays.
Srikalahasteeswara Temple, known as Dakshina Kashi, is a prominent Shaivite shrine attracting both national and international devotees, particularly for its Rahu Ketu Sarpa Dosha Nivaran Puja. Temple officials stress the need for upgraded infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of visitors. The development plan also includes constructing amenities centers, bus shelters, and enhancing lighting systems.
Recently, Srikalahasti MLA Bojjala Sudhir Reddy met with Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in New Delhi to request additional funding for the project. The Union government, which has previously funded temple development projects in Srisailam and Annavaram under the PRASAD scheme, has now included Srikalahasti in its tourism development plans.