Ujjain Hosts Global Spiritual Tourism Conclave 2025

The spiritual heart of Madhya Pradesh, Ujjain, will host the 2nd Global Spiritual Tourism Conclave, titled “रूहmantic”, on August 27, 2025. Organized by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) in association with the Ministry of Tourism and the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, the conclave aims to highlight the intersection of faith, economy, wellness, and digital innovation in India’s growing spiritual tourism landscape.

A High-Profile Inauguration

Leaders at the Helm

The event will be inaugurated by Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, with Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Tourism & Culture, as the Guest of Honour. Noted spiritual leader Gauranga Das Prabhu will deliver the keynote address, setting a profound spiritual tone for the day.

Dignitaries and Experts

Key bureaucrats, including Mr. Suman Billa (IAS), Additional Secretary & Director General, Ministry of Tourism, and Mr. Sheo Shekhar Shukla (IAS), Principal Secretary – Tourism, Government of Madhya Pradesh, will provide administrative insights into tourism development.

Launch of “Faith & Flow” Report

One of the highlights will be the release of the PHDCCI–KPMG report titled “Faith & Flow: Navigating Crowds in India’s Sacred Spaces.” The report is expected to offer data-driven insights into managing tourism flow, crowd control, infrastructure, and cultural preservation in sacred destinations across India.

Key Sessions and Themes

Thematic Discussions

The day-long conclave will feature thought-provoking sessions that blend tradition with modern challenges,

• Temple Economies – Exploring how pilgrimage circuits fuel local employment and micro-businesses.
• Mahakal’s Mandala – Delving into Ujjain’s role as a spiritual city and its path toward urban renewal.
• Mind, Body & Soul – Highlighting Ayurveda, yoga, and holistic wellness as spiritual tourism assets.
• Divine in the Digital – Discussing the role of AI, VR, and mobile apps in transforming access to spirituality.
• Guardians of the Sacred Axis – Tracing the Jyotirlinga circuit, underscoring its historical and devotional importance.

These sessions aim to create a roadmap for responsible and inclusive growth in spiritual tourism.

Government–Industry Collaboration

Strategic Roundtable

A Government–Industry Roundtable, chaired by the Chief Minister, will serve as a key dialogue platform. Topics will include,

• Strengthening infrastructure in pilgrimage cities
• Promoting responsible hospitality in spiritual hubs
• Integrating culture with commerce through festivals and events

The roundtable seeks to align policy initiatives with private sector innovation, ensuring sustainable tourism development.

Spiritual Immersion in Ujjain

On-Ground Experience

Delegates will have the opportunity to experience Ujjain’s divine atmosphere, with guided visits to iconic temples like,

• Shri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
• Kal Bhairav Temple
• These visits aim to deepen participants’ understanding of spiritual heritage, rituals, and sacred geography.

Stakeholder Support and Collaborations

The conclave has strong support from tourism and hospitality leaders, including,

E-Factor Experiences, Sri Mandir App, IRCTC, Mann Fleet Partners, KPMG, Hotel Anjushree, Indore Talk, ADTOI, FHRAI, IATO, and TAAI. This broad partnership demonstrates a unified approach to promoting India’s spiritual richness on the global stage.