Guidelines

Kartik Parikrama Guidelines

The Kartik Parikrama is a sacred opportunity to serve and deepen our connection with the holy dham. To help maintain a respectful, spiritually focused, and safe environment for all participants, everyone is expected to strictly follow the following guidelines throughout the entire duration of the Parikrama.

1. Respectful Conduct Between Male and Female Devotees

Participants must avoid any public display of affection with members of the opposite gender. Examples include, but are not limited to:

Holding hands while walking in the dham
Hugging
Kissing
Inappropriate physical contact
Resting on each other’s laps
Sitting next to each other on buses (unless the individuals are married to each other or there are no other seats available)
Riding together on scooters or motorcycles (unless the individuals are married to each other or have specifically been requested to provide such services)

All participants are requested to maintain the standard of dignity, respect, and spiritual focus appropriate for a pilgrimage in the holy dham.

2. Entering Rooms or Areas Designated for the Opposite Gender

No person above the age of 12 may enter a room or accommodation area designated for the opposite gender under any circumstances, unless:

Prior permission has been obtained from the Parikrama management, or there is an immediate life-threatening emergency, such as a medical emergency or fire.

3. Violation of Rules and Management Authority

If a participant is found to have violated these guidelines, the Parikrama management reserves the right to immediately cancel their current and any future Parikrama participation privileges. No refund will be provided for any unused portion of the registration, and the participant may be required to leave the Parikrama immediately.

Participants acknowledge that such a decision may result in personal inconvenience or financial loss related to accommodation, transportation, work, family commitments, or other arrangements. However, maintaining the sanctity and safety of the Parikrama environment must take priority.

4. Reporting and Investigation

In certain situations, obtaining complete evidence of a violation may be difficult or may require significant time and resources. To protect the integrity of the Parikrama and reduce unnecessary burden on the management team, the management reserves the right to take precautionary action whenever there is a credible concern or reasonable indication that a violation has occurred.

Management may also conduct any investigation it considers appropriate and may consider all relevant information available when making decisions regarding compliance with these guidelines.

5. Agreement to Follow the Guidelines

By participating in the Kartik Parikrama, you agree to strictly follow these guidelines throughout the entire program and respectfully accept the final decisions of the Parikrama management, even if you personally believe that a violation has not occurred.

We sincerely appreciate everyone’s cooperation in helping preserve the sacred atmosphere of the Kartik Parikrama and allowing all devotees to focus on their spiritual practices and service.