UP Tourism to develop sacred Shringi Rishi Ashram in Meerut under Mahabharata Circuit

The Shringi Rishi Ashram in Parikshitgarh, Meerut, a sacred site deeply connected to the Mahabharata era and the beginning of Kalyug, is set to be developed as a major religious tourism destination under Uttar Pradesh’s Mahabharata Circuit.

The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has sanctioned Rs 2 crore for the integrated tourism development of the site.

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Believed to be the place where Rishi Shringi cursed King Parikshit, the grandson of Arjuna, the ashram stands as a living testament to the events that marked the transition from Dwapar Yug to Kalyug. The site is home to an ancient yagyashala, havan kund, the footprints of sages, and a centuries-old banyan tree, all of which draw devotees and visitors eager to witness the remnants of the Mahabharata’s sacred history.

UP Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said, “Shringi Rishi Ashram holds immense religious and cultural importance. Its development will not only enhance local facilities but also add a significant chapter to the Mahabharata Circuit, establishing Meerut as a vital destination of faith and heritage.”

Under the integrated development plan, the ashram will undergo beautification, improved lighting, construction of rest areas, installation of information boards, toilets, and drinking water facilities, ensuring that visitors can experience the site’s sanctity with comfort and awareness.

According to ancient scriptures, King Parikshit once offended Rishi Shamik while the sage was in meditation. In anger, Rishi Shringi, his son, cursed the king to die from a snakebite — a prophecy fulfilled by Takshak Nag. Later, King Janamejaya performed the ‘Sarpa Yagya’ at this very site to avenge his father’s death. It is believed that after divine intervention, the ritual was stopped, and since then, snakes do not harm anyone near the ashram.

Meerut has long been a gateway to the Mahabharata era. In addition to Shringi Rishi Ashram, the district is home to several significant temples and heritage sites, including Maa Chandi Devi Temple, Baba Augharnath Temple, Bileshwar Nath Temple, Hastinapur, Gandhari Sarovar, Gopeshwar Temple, and Katyayani Devi Temple. The district’s proximity to Delhi and NCR makes it easily accessible for tourists and pilgrims.

In 2024, Meerut recorded 37.78 lakh visitors, while between January and June 2025, the number reached 10.6 lakh, reflecting the growing interest in religious and cultural tourism in the region.

Minister Jaiveer Singh said, “The Mahabharata Circuit is a vision to connect faith with history and bring ancient legends closer to the people. Through the development of sites like Shringi Rishi Ashram, we aim to highlight Uttar Pradesh’s living heritage and strengthen its position on the global tourism map.”