What this scheme offers
For many senior citizens, a pilgrimage they've wanted to make for years stays out of reach simply because of the logistics and cost of travel, accommodation and looking after health needs on the road. Punjab's free pilgrimage scheme, launched 27 November 2023, handles all of that directly — travel, accommodation, meals, medical assistance and a pilgrim kit — to destinations spanning Sikh, Hindu and other religious sites: Sri Harmandir Sahib, Sri Hazur Sahib, Takht Sri Patna Sahib, Mata Vaishno Devi, Sri Anandpur Sahib, Varanasi, Khatu Shyam Ji, Salasar Balaji, Ajmer Sharif and Mata Chintpurni among others. The scheme has continued to expand its routes, with three new circuits (Salasar-Khatu Shyam, Haridwar-Rishikesh, Mathura-Vrindavan) tentatively planned from August 2026, and over 70 lakh devotees reported to have travelled under it since launch.
Who is eligible
- Permanent resident of Punjab, aged 50 years or above.
- Medically fit to undertake pilgrimage travel.
Documents required
- Aadhaar card
- Age proof
- Residential proof (Punjab domicile)
- Medical fitness certificate, where required
How to apply
- Apply through the Connect Punjab portal or your district administration office when a batch/route is announced.
- Submit age proof, residential proof and medical fitness documentation.
- Selection is typically managed in batches tied to specific pilgrimage circuits and travel dates.
- Once confirmed, travel, accommodation, meals and medical assistance are arranged by the government for the duration of the trip.
- Check with your district office for the current status of new routes and upcoming batches.