Patna: The Bihar government has approved an ambitious Rs 882.87 crore development plan for Punauradham, believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita, located in Sitamarhi district. The site, of immense religious and cultural importance, is set to undergo major redevelopment to bring it in line with Ayodhya’s Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, now a prominent hub for religious tourism.
The State Cabinet of Ministers granted administrative and financial approval for the project, which aims to transform Punauradham into a key part of the Ramayana Circuit – a spiritual and tourism initiative linking sites associated with the epic Ramayana. Officials said the scheme will be financed entirely by the state and will include a ten-year operation and maintenance plan post-implementation.
The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation will oversee the project, with tenders to be issued under the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) model.
Tourism officials argue that with religious tourism playing a central role in India’s cultural and economic landscape, the development of sites like Punauradham can significantly boost local economies and generate employment. “The example of Ayodhya demonstrates how spiritual hubs can drive economic activity and attract large-scale footfall. Punauradham, with its direct connection to Ayodhya and its spiritual significance as the birthplace of Janaki (Sita), deserves similar attention,” said an official from the tourism department.
Plans for the redevelopment include upgrading the existing temple structure, known as Parkota, constructing supporting buildings and infrastructure for tourists, and other facilities aimed at long-term spiritual and cultural engagement.
