Patna: Bihar is preparing for a significant overhaul of its tourism infrastructure, with the state government announcing a 100-day plan to upgrade facilities, expand accommodation options, and improve major religious and cultural circuits. The initiative aims to attract more domestic and international visitors, as Bihar currently ranks 10th among Indian states in tourist footfall.
Tourism minister Arun Shankar Prasad said the department has been directed to prepare a detailed roadmap within the next three months and begin implementation immediately. “Our target is clear — in the next five years, Bihar must be counted among the top five tourism destinations in the country,” he said.
Five-star and budget hotels to be developed across key sites
Prasad confirmed that the government will pursue the construction of new five-star hotels while also prioritising affordable budget accommodation, ensuring that travellers from “all income categories can comfortably explore Bihar’s heritage sites”.
The minister said budget hotels would make cost-effective stays widely available, enabling visitors to book rooms according to their travel budgets and stay close to popular attractions.
The department is currently reviewing staff vacancies, which will be shared with the government as part of the reform plan.
Tourism department to set targets, boost jobs
The state will set quantifiable targets for tourist growth, with an emphasis on creating both permanent and temporary employment. Local businesses will also be integrated into the tourism value chain so they can benefit directly from increased visitor numbers.
“Tourism must generate livelihoods alongside development,” Prasad said. The roadmap will outline how the department can accelerate job creation while strengthening religious, cultural, and eco-tourism circuits.
Bihar’s new attraction: a ‘moving five-star hotel’ on wheels
To diversify travel options, Bihar has introduced luxury caravan buses—mobile hotels designed to give tourists a premium travel-and-stay experience. The caravans come equipped with:
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Seven reclining seats and four sleeper berths
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Five LED televisions
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A mini-kitchen
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A bathroom
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Music system and onboard entertainment
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Space to cook, rest, sleep and travel comfortably
Officials say the concept will reduce dependency on hotels and restaurants, allowing tourists to enjoy a seamless travel experience across long routes.
Focus on Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, Ramayana and eco circuits
During a meeting with senior officials, Tourism Director and Special Secretary Udayan Mishra briefed the minister on the progress of key circuits including:
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Buddha Circuit
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Eco-tourism destinations
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Sikh Circuit
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Jain Circuit
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Ramayana Circuit
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Sufi and Shiv-Shakti Circuit
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Gandhi Circuit
The minister also reviewed ongoing central-government projects and allocations for Gaya, Bodh Gaya and Nalanda, declared in the Union Budget.
