Patna: The Bihar government has unveiled an ambitious plan to expand the state’s eco-tourism network, aiming to increase the number of eco-tourism destinations to 60–70 sites over the next five years as part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable tourism and generate employment.
According to the Tourism Department, Bihar currently has 10 to 15 operational eco-tourism destinations, while development work is underway at more than 24 major sites across the state.
Officials said another 50 potential locations have also been identified for future development.
Wildlife And Nature Tourism In Focus
Among Bihar’s existing eco-tourism destinations, the Valmiki Tiger Reserve in West Champaran remains the state’s flagship attraction.
The reserve, Bihar’s only tiger habitat, is known for its Terai forests and diverse wildlife, including tigers and elephants, and attracts visitors from across the country due to its location along the India–Nepal border.
The government is also working to strengthen the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its waterfalls and trekking routes, with plans to develop it into Bihar’s second tiger reserve.
Other prominent eco-tourism destinations include Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary, Gautam Buddha Wildlife Sanctuary, Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, Kawar Lake Bird Sanctuary, Rajgir Hills, Kakolat Waterfall, Ghoda Katora, Barabar-Gurpa Hills, and Surajpur Wetland.
New Tourism Infrastructure Planned
The Tourism Department said several destinations will receive upgraded visitor facilities to improve the overall tourism experience.
Planned infrastructure includes nature trails, watchtowers, eco-cottages, homestays, digital signage and interpretation centres, with the aim of providing safe and environmentally sustainable tourism experiences.
The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary will continue to promote boat-based dolphin watching, while Kawar Lake, one of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes, will be further developed to attract birdwatchers during the migratory season.
Projects Underway Across Bihar
The government is also undertaking the comprehensive development of Matsyagandha Lake in Saharsa, where facilities such as a glass bridge, souvenir shop, Super Tree and an experience centre are planned for completion by 2026.
Development work at Luv-Kush Park and the Valmikinagar Iconic Tourism Park in West Champaran is targeted for completion by 2027.
In addition, authorities plan to promote jungle safaris and other eco-tourism activities around Maa Mundeshwari Dham to improve the utilisation of the existing pilgrim rest house and diversify tourism offerings in the area.
Sustainable Tourism And Employment
Tourism Minister Kedar Prasad Gupta said the government is prioritising eco-tourism as a key component of Bihar’s tourism strategy.
He said the expansion of sustainable tourism would help create employment opportunities for local communities, strengthen rural economies and preserve the state’s natural and cultural heritage.
The Tourism Department has set a target of generating 20 lakh (2 million) employment opportunities through the tourism sector over the next five years, while seeking to attract a larger number of domestic and international visitors to Bihar.
