Pakistan introduced a $20 service fee for pilgrims visiting the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara via the Kartarpur Corridor. This fee applies to Indian pilgrims who cross the border to visit one of Sikhism's holiest sites. Pakistan justifies the fee by stating that it helps cover the costs of maintaining and operating the corridor, which includes infrastructure upkeep, security, and services for visitors.
The Kartarpur Corridor, inaugurated in November 2019, was a significant step towards promoting peace and religious harmony between India and Pakistan, providing Sikhs easier access to the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, located just 4.7 kilometers inside Pakistan's border. The service fee has been a point of contention, with some pilgrims and Indian officials expressing concerns about the additional cost burden. However, Pakistan maintains that the fee is reasonable given the operational expenses involved.
Since its opening, the corridor has seen a steady flow of pilgrims, particularly during religious festivals such as Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth anniversary. According to estimates, Pakistan has generated substantial revenue from the service fee. As more pilgrims continue to visit, this figure is expected to grow, although the exact amount of earnings remains undisclosed officially.
Despite periodic requests from the Indian government to reduce or waive the fee during special occasions, Pakistan has largely adhered to its $20 charge. The corridor continues to be a symbol of cross-border religious diplomacy, and both governments occasionally review the operational framework to ensure a smooth experience for pilgrims.
