Patna : Bihar is moving ahead with plans to expand eco-tourism facilities at Rajgir, including eco-friendly cottages and a proposed cliff walk at the Nature Safari, as the state government looks to develop its natural landscapes into organised tourism destinations.
The initiative is part of a broader effort by the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department to improve visitor facilities at forest areas, hills, water bodies and wildlife destinations while maintaining a focus on nature conservation.
The proposed facilities are intended to provide visitors with more opportunities to experience the region’s natural surroundings. The development process for the cliff walk and cottages is being taken forward, although the report does not specify a completion date.
Bhimbandh In Munger To Be Developed As Eco-Tourism Destination
Alongside Rajgir, the government is accelerating plans to develop Bhimbandh in Munger district as a major eco-tourism destination.
The process of preparing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the project is underway. Once the process advances, work is expected to begin on developing tourism facilities at the site.
Bhimbandh is among the natural areas identified for planned tourism development, with the government seeking to improve visitor infrastructure while retaining the importance of environmental protection.
The initiative forms part of the state’s wider strategy to make natural and forest-based destinations more accessible and better organised for tourists.
Development Plans For Kaimur, Rohtas And Other Natural Sites
The eco-tourism initiative also covers other destinations across Bihar, including Kaimur, Rohtas, Gaya and Valmiki Tiger Reserve, as well as forest areas and water bodies.
The Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department is working on plans to improve basic infrastructure and public facilities at selected locations. The aim is to provide a more organised tourism experience while supporting conservation efforts.
The government is also assessing the potential of other natural destinations that could be developed for eco-tourism.
Private Participation Proposed Under PPP Model
To support the development and operation of selected destinations, the state is exploring private-sector participation through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, including the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model.
The approach is intended to facilitate the development of tourism infrastructure and its subsequent operation and maintenance.
The Eco-Tourism Development Society is also working on selecting a transaction adviser, an architectural consultant and a Programme Management Unit (PMU) to support the overall development of eco-tourism sites across Bihar.
These agencies are expected to assist with project planning, implementation and coordination.
Agency Selection For Eco-Tourism Promotion
The government has also initiated the process of selecting an agency to develop the branding and strategic promotion of Bihar’s eco-tourism destinations.
The objective is to give the state’s natural attractions a more organised identity and improve their visibility among potential visitors.
Along with promotional activities, the wider initiative focuses on developing facilities at selected sites and improving the overall visitor experience.
Conservation And Tourism To Be Developed Together
Bihar’s eco-tourism plans cover a range of natural landscapes, from Rajgir’s hills to Bhimbandh’s forest surroundings and the wildlife habitat of Valmiki Tiger Reserve.
The proposed projects aim to strengthen tourism infrastructure and promote the state’s natural destinations. Their implementation will depend on the progress of planning, consultant selection and the processes required to develop and operate the facilities.
With Rajgir’s proposed cliff walk and eco-friendly cottages and the Bhimbandh project moving through their respective development processes, the state is seeking to expand nature-based tourism while keeping conservation central to its approach.
