Virasat-e-khalsa has emerged as most popular tourist destination of the state, claimed Sohan Singh Thandal, Tourism minister Punjab.Elated over getting an overwhelming response from the tourists during the 4 years of construction of the complex, Mr. Thandal said that by now around 62 lac tourists have seen this world class project, with over 30,000 tourists on each weekend and have appreciated the steps taken by the State Government for creating such a masterpiece. He informed that Department of Cultural Affairs initiated the first phase of the project on November25, 2011. He said that as per notification no. 12/252/97-5TC/2470 issued by the Govt. of Punjab, Anandpur Sahib Foundation came into force and under this organization, the project for setting up of Khalsa Heritage Complex now Virasat-e-Khalsa at Sri Anandpur Sahib on 100 acres of land was taken up.
The civil work of all the 27 Galleries of Virasat-e-Khalsa has since been completed in November 2011. Out of total 27 galleries, the exhibit work of 14 galleries, have been completed in Phase-1 and the same was dedicated to the nation by Hon'ble Chief Minister, Punjab on 25.11.2011.The work of the 2nd Phase for the remaining 13 galleries has already been started and will likely to be completed by 30.06.2016, said he.He informed that earlier the total cost of this project was Rs.224.00 Cr. which has now been enhanced to Rs.327.20 Cr. This enhancement of amount has arisen due to induction of World class Art work, new technology for Exhibit works.