Patna: Bihar government has stepped up efforts to transform the world-famous Kesaria Buddhist Stupa in East Champaran into an integrated eco-tourism and spiritual destination, alongside preserving its historical significance.
The initiative gained momentum after Anand Kishore, Additional Chief Secretary of the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, visited the site and chaired a high-level review meeting with officials. He directed departments to prepare a comprehensive master plan for the holistic development of the stupa complex and its surrounding areas.
Master Plan to Expand Visitor Facilities
According to officials, the proposed master plan will introduce a range of tourism and visitor amenities aimed at enhancing the experience for pilgrims and tourists.
The proposed facilities include a Zen park, children’s park, meditation centre, Vipassana centre, eco-friendly huts, landscaped gardens, parking facilities, a cafeteria and other infrastructure designed to support sustainable tourism.
The development is expected to position the Kesaria Buddhist Stupa as both a heritage attraction and a centre for spiritual and nature-based tourism.
Sarottar Lake to Be Developed for Eco-Tourism
Alongside the stupa project, the nearby Sarottar Lake has also been identified for eco-tourism development.
Officials plan to strengthen boating facilities and create parks and recreational spaces around the lake to attract visitors while promoting environmentally sustainable tourism.
Proposals Approved During Review Meeting
During the meeting, East Champaran District Magistrate Saurabh Suman Yadav proposed developing Sarottar Lake and making additional land available for the comprehensive expansion of the Kesaria Stupa complex. The proposal received approval during the review.
The Regional Chief Conservator of Forests, Muzaffarpur, recommended the establishment of a Zen park, children’s park and meditation centre, while the Sub-Divisional Officer of Chakia proposed setting up a Vipassana centre.
Anand Kishore approved both proposals and directed officials to incorporate them into the master plan.
Officials Attend Planning Meeting
The review meeting was attended by senior officials from multiple departments, including Hari Om Sharan, Superintending Archaeologist of the Archaeological Survey of India, the Regional Chief Conservator of Forests, Muzaffarpur, the Divisional Forest Officer, Motihari, and district administration officials.
The master plan is expected to guide the phased development of the Kesaria Buddhist Stupa and its surrounding areas, with the aim of strengthening heritage conservation while promoting sustainable tourism in Bihar.
