Israel Tourism Ministry Organizes Holy Land Pilgrimages Seminar

KOCHI:
In a landmark event aimed at bolstering pilgrimage tourism between India and Israel, the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT), in collaboration with the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), hosted a seminar on “Pilgrims of Hope: Experiencing the Holy Land During the Jubilee Year 2025” at the Pastoral Orientation Centre (POC) in Kochi this March. This significant gathering brought together church leaders from diverse Christian traditions.​

The seminar Amruta Bangera, Director of Marketing-India, Israel Ministry of Tourism, as the keynote speaker. She provided valuable insights into Israel as a pilgrimage destination, the introduction of an e-visa facility for Indian travellers, effective January 1, 2025 and practical information to plan and lead pilgrimage. She highlighted Israel’s spiritual heritage and the ministry’s dedication to facilitating travel experiences for pilgrims visiting the Holy Land.​ practical insights shared by experts and church leaders, attendees gained valuable knowledge on planning spiritual journeys to Israel.

The seminar also featured speakers such as Bishop James Anaparambil of Alleppey, Bishop Paul Mullassery of Quilon, Mar Awgin Kuriakose Metropolitan of the Chaldean Syrian Church of the East, Fr. Thomas Tharayil, Director of POC and Deputy Secretary of KCBC, Fr. Evan Gomes SVD, an expert guide, and Mr. George Devassy, CEO of Magi Group, a leading organizer of international religious pilgrimages. Their collective efforts resulted in discussions on the shared biblical heritage between India and Israel and practical aspects of organising pilgrimages.​

Reflecting on the significance of the seminar, Amruta said, “The Holy Land holds a deep spiritual connection for many in India. We are committed to ensuring that every Indian pilgrim has an enriching and accessible experience. In 2024, a total of 9,600 Indian tourists arrived in Israel, with nearly 50
percent visiting for pilgrimage purposes, primarily from Kerala. With the introduction of the e-visa and strengthened relationships with church leaders, we aim to make the journey to Israel more seamless than ever before.”

Following the seminar, held from March 24th to 26th, the Israeli delegation engaged in meetings with key church leaders across Kerala, including Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath of Thrissur, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), and distinguished clergy. These interactions
further solidified the commitment to promoting pilgrimage tourism and fostering cultural and spiritual ties between the two nations.

During their visit, the delegation also explored Kerala’s rich Jewish heritage, visiting historic synagogues and learning about the Muziris Project, which highlights the longstanding Jewish presence in the region.​ IMOT remains steadfast in supporting Indian religious communities in facilitating pilgrimages to the Holy Land.