Patna: In a significant move to enhance the tourist experience at the Kesariya Stupa in East Champaran, the largest stupa in the world, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for a series of new facilities on Tuesday.
Tourism Secretary Abhay Kumar Singh on Monday said that the Bihar Government is committed to continually improving the visitor experience at the Kesariya Stupa, a destination drawing domestic and international tourists alike.
Among the key initiatives is the construction of eight structures, miniature replicas of the Kesariya Stupa, forming a smaller version of the main stupa with meticulous attention to detail.
The project, valued at Rs 19.77 crore, aims to provide tourists with a comprehensive understanding of Buddhist architecture. The miniature replicas will include Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Mahabodhi Temple, Nalanda University ruins, Ashoka Pillar in Vaishali, Vikramshila, Gurupa Bodh Sthal, Barabar Cave, and Sujata Stupa. This strategic placement will allow visitors to appreciate the diversity of Buddhist heritage in a single location.
A highlight of the plan is the proposed 45-seat auditorium, designed in the shape of a stupa and equipped with a top-class audio-visual system. Additionally, an exhibition hall will showcase short documentaries and exhibits related to Lord Buddha, offering tourists a deeper insight into the rich cultural and historical significance of the site.
As part of the comprehensive development plan, the Tourism Department has also invested Rs 6.90 crore in constructing road facilities near Kesariya Stupa. The Chief Minister will inaugurate this scheme on Tuesday, demonstrating the state’s commitment to providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for tourists.
Implemented by the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation, the scheme includes a Tourist Visitor Center and Cafeteria housed in a (G+1) building. The ground floor features a reception area, cafeteria, kitchen, kiosk, and manager’s room, while the first floor comprises eight rooms and a hall. Other essential amenities such as a security guard room, toilets, boundary walls, electrification, campus development, roads, internal pathways, and parking facilities have also been incorporated to ensure a holistic and well-rounded tourist experience.
