Patna: Bihar welcomed more than 6.62 crore tourist arrivals in 2025, marking a significant increase in visitor numbers as the state expands investment in tourism infrastructure, heritage conservation and religious destinations.
The figures were shared by Tourism Minister Kedar Prasad Gupta during a press conference organised by the Tourism Department at the Information and Public Relations Department’s Media Centre on Wednesday.
The event was also attended by Special Secretary-cum-Director Udayan Mishra, who outlined the department’s ongoing initiatives and launched Yayavar, the department’s official magazine highlighting tourism projects and activities.
Tourist Footfall Continues To Rise
According to the Tourism Department, Bihar recorded 6,62,12,415 tourist arrivals during 2025.
The momentum has continued into the current year, with 3,42,34,761 tourist visits already registered by May 2026.
The minister attributed the growth to sustained investment in tourism infrastructure and the expansion of facilities at key religious, cultural and heritage destinations.
Rs 2,710 Crore Projects Underway
The minister said schemes worth Rs 1,301 crore were approved under the State Plan during the 2025–26 financial year. In addition, projects valued at Rs 2,710.31 crore are being prioritised following 36 announcements made during the Pragati Yatra 2025.
Major tourism projects are currently under development at:
- Punauradham (birthplace of Mata Sita)
- Baba Hariharnath Temple, Sonepur
- Rajgir
- Valmikinagar
- Phulhar
- Singheshwar
- Kusheshwarsthan
- Patna Haat
- Patna Sahib
The government said these projects are intended to strengthen religious, cultural and heritage tourism across Bihar.
New Tourism Schemes Approved
The minister highlighted several initiatives approved for 2026–27, including:
- Chief Minister Homestay Promotion Scheme 2026
- Sindhu Darshan Pilgrimage Financial Assistance Scheme 2026
- Chief Minister Bihar Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Service Scheme 2026
According to the department, these schemes are expected to improve tourist amenities, generate local employment and diversify Bihar’s tourism offerings.
Preparations Underway For Shravani Mela
The Tourism Department said extensive arrangements are being made for Shravani Mela 2026 in Bhagalpur, Banka and Munger districts.
Facilities planned for pilgrims include:
- Tent cities
- Tourist information centres
- Decorative lighting
- Thematic entrance gates
- Laser and drone shows
- Barricading
- Health and administrative support services
Officials said the objective is to ensure a safe and well-managed experience for devotees and visitors.
Investment Promotion Continues
The government said efforts to attract private investment under the Bihar Tourism Policy 2023 are progressing.
According to the department:
- 37 investment proposals have received first-stage approval.
- Two projects have secured final approval.
- Work on five-star hotel projects is also moving forward.
The department is simultaneously promoting Bihar tourism through campaigns at airports, railway stations, metro networks, bus shelters, digital platforms and national tourism fairs.
Focus On Jobs And Local Economy
Special Secretary-cum-Director Udayan Mishra said the government’s tourism strategy extends beyond developing tourist attractions.He said the department aims to create sustainable employment opportunities for youth, women, self-help groups, local entrepreneurs and service-sector workers while preserving Bihar’s cultural and historical heritage.
According to Mishra, the government is implementing a time-bound action plan to develop Bihar into a safe, accessible and modern tourism destination, with tourism expected to play an increasingly important role in strengthening the state’s economy and regional identity.
