Pilgrimage town Ambaji to add adventure sports, entertainment offerings

AHMEDABAD: Pilgrimage place Ambaji in north Gujarat will get a makeover into a tourist destination with the infusion of Rs 275 crore. Authorities have planned a water-laser show, a theme park, adventure sports facilities and a balloon enabling a birds’ to attract a wider category of tourist and extend the stay of the tourists.

One of the 51 ‘Shaktipeeths’ and located in the Aravalli ranges, Ambaji witnesses inflow of close to 2 crore pilgrims every year. The state government wants to leverage the popularity to add value as an entertainment tourist destination and increase the amenities for the pilgrims, claims an official of tourism department.

The attractions to feature include a water laser show, an adventure sport facility equipped with rides, 3D film projection facility by TV serial Ramayan fame Sagar Arts Limited and a theme park at Raichada. A Helium Balloon ride will give a birds eye view of the pilgrimage spot and Mt Gabbar. "Tourists could stay at a upcoming luxury hotel and rejuvenate at wellness center – cum - spa," said Vipul Mitra, state principal secretary for Tourism and Aviation.

“The idea is to provide entertainment options to pilgrims and extend their stay,” said Anil Patel, secretary of Pavitra Yatradham Vikas Board.

Along with greenfield facilities, the state government and Shri Arasuri Ambaji Mata Devasthan Trust (Ambaji Temple Trust), that manages the temple, are upgrading the existing infrastructure. These includes revamping of temple campus, remodeling of Gabbar Parikrama involving installation of 51 Adhyashakti stone carvings that will be lit-up by solar and wind energy. A solar power plant will provide eco-friendly lightening on the streets.

The pilgrim town, that also features high on the hit list of terrorists, is also poised for heightened security equipped with automatic surveillance system. Ambaji Temple Trust has already accomplished the construction of 200 bed hospital. With almost two crore tourists or 38% of the total incoming tourists, Ambaji is the most sought after pilgrim destination of the state, followed by Dwarka (50 lakh) and Somnath (25 lakh).