• Source:JND
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The fervour of political campaigns has swept across the state of Bihar in the midst of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024. In this electoral hustle, a critical aspect of Bihar’s potential remains overlooked, which is its tourism industry. Despite its rich tapestry of religious, cultural, historical, and environmental treasures, the development of Bihar’s tourist destinations has not featured prominently in the political discourse.

Bihar being a state steeped in spiritual heritage has been graced by figures such as Lord Mahavir, Mahatma Buddha and Guru Gobind Singh. The state echoes the Sufi saints’ teachings that permeate the very essence of the region. In addition, there are multiple environmental abodes in Bihar including Valmikinagar Tiger Reserve, Rajgir’s Jungle Safari, Kokolat’s renowned waterfall and the hot springs of Rajgir.

The sacred Ganges bifurcates the state, offering ghats that could be transformed into tourist hotspots. The Ramayana Circuit, particularly the Buxar region where the Ganges enters Bihar and which holds ties to Lord Ram, presents a significant opportunity for religious tourism. The Vindhya mountain ranges and Sitamarhi are poised to become focal points for visitors. 

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The ancient temple of Maa Mundeshwari Bhavani, perched on the Kaimur hills, stands as the nation’s oldest temple. Its development is crucial, not just nationally but globally, to enhance the surrounding areas and cater to tourists seeking overnight stays, currently hindered by inadequate facilities.

The Buddhist circuit, with landmarks like the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya and the Ashoka Pillar of Vaishali, holds immense potential to attract international visitors, particularly from countries with significant Buddhist populations.

Jainism also finds its roots in Bihar, with the birthplaces of Tirthankars Vasupujya and Lord Mahavir located here. The development of Jain pilgrimage sites like Pawapuri and Nalanda is essential to draw devotees.

For Sikh followers, Bihar is sacred as the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, with sites like Guru Ka Bagh and Handi Sahib holding great significance.

The Sufi tradition too has left its mark on Bihar, with places like Manersharif and Biharsharif standing as testaments to the saints’ legacies. These sites continue to draw devotees from across the nation and warrant development to accommodate the influx of visitors.

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Despite these tourist attractions, Bihar struggles to draw visitors to generate revenue. While the electoral campaigns are in full swing, the untapped potential of Bihar’s tourism sector remains a silent narrative. The state's diverse religious and natural heritage calls for strategic development to transform it into a hub for tourists and pilgrims alike, promising economic growth and cultural preservation of popular places across the state.