The state tourism department of Bihar, in collaboration with the forest, environment, and climate change department, has formulated an action plan to transform barren hills in and around Gaya and Bodh Gaya into lush green zones. The initiative involves planting over one lakh saplings using the seed ball technique, aiming to restore the environment and develop these areas into eco-tourism hubs.
Scope of the Initiative
The plan extends beyond Gaya and Bodh Gaya to other regions of natural beauty and wildlife across Bihar, including Rajgir, Nawada, Kaimur, Bhagalpur, Munger, Begusarai, and West Champaran. The tourism department seeks to create eco-tourism destinations that allow residents to experience Bihar's rich natural beauty, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. This initiative is also expected to attract tourists from across the country, boosting revenue and generating employment for local communities.
Focus on Religious and Historical Hills
According to a press release, the plan will concentrate on hills of religious and historical significance, such as Dungeshwari, Brahmayoni, Pretshila, Ramshila, Gurupa, and Barabar hills in Gaya and Bodh Gaya. The twin cities are among Bihar's primary religious tourism centers, drawing Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims from around the world. Apart from the UNESCO-listed Mahabodhi Mahavihara in Bodh Gaya, the surrounding hills also hold historical and spiritual importance.
Proposed Eco-Tourism Destinations
The department has proposed the development of over 24 eco-tourism destinations. These include Gautam Buddha Wildlife Sanctuary (Gaya), Valmiki Tiger Reserve (West Champaran), Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary (Munger), Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (Bhagalpur), Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary (Begusarai), Mundeshwari Dham (Kaimur), Rajgir Hills and hot springs, Ghora Katora (Rajgir), Kakolat waterfall (Nawada), Vanavar hills (Jehanabad), and Gurupa hills (Gaya). Patna Zoo is also part of the proposed eco-tourism circuit.
