Sacred Bridges: Leveraging Religious Tourism and Cultural Heritage for Sustainable Economic Cooperation between India and Pakistan

Abstract

This study examines the potential of religious tourism, cultural heritage, and educational collaboration as catalysts for economic integration between India and Pakistan. Despite persistent geopolitical tensions, these neighbouring states share over 5,000 religious sites and profound civilizational bonds. Using computable general equilibrium modelling, spatial GIS mapping, and secondary data analysis, this research develops a three-pillar framework integrating: (1) structured religious tourism circuits; (2) cross-border educational initiatives; and (3) targeted trade liberalization. Findings indicate implementation could generate annual economic benefits of $9-14.5 billion by 2030, with religious tourism alone potentially yielding $500 million to $1 billion annually from 600,000-1.7 million pilgrims. Beyond economics, the study identifies social benefits including 460,000-515,000 jobs, women's entrepreneurship opportunities, and development of professional networks that counter negative stereotypes. The proposed implementation introduces institutional innovations such as “Education Corridor Visas” and blockchain-based travel documentation to address practical barriers to collaboration.