Bodh Gaya: Bodh Gaya is set to emerge as a premium destination on Bihar’s tourism map, with the inauguration of the Mahabodhi Guest House by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday. The seven-storey state guest house, constructed at a cost of Rs 136.15 crore, is situated just one kilometre from the Mahabodhi Temple – a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Buddhism’s most sacred pilgrimage spots.
Built in a contemporary design inspired by the Mahabodhi Temple and Lomash Rishi Cave, the building blends modern amenities with Buddhist aesthetics. Construction began in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the project has been closely overseen by the Bihar government since its inception.
Although a virtual inauguration had taken place on March 6 under the name ‘State Guest House’, the facility has now been renamed the ‘Mahabodhi Guest House’. While no official reason was given for the second formal inauguration, the guest house’s management has since been handed over to ITC, which will operate the facility under an agreement.
The Mahabodhi Guest House is equipped with high-end amenities matching five-star hospitality standards. It includes two presidential suites, eight VIP suites, 80 double rooms, 10 single rooms, a 30-bed dormitory, swimming pool, spa, gym, business centre, bar, two restaurants, and a conference hall for 150 people. The premises also feature high-speed Wi-Fi and advanced security systems.
Speaking at the event, CM Nitish said the guest house, situated adjacent to the Mahabodhi Cultural Centre, will provide top-class accommodation for foreign tourists and dignitaries. “This is a big boost for Bodh Gaya,” he remarked while reviewing the property from its rooftop.
Following the inauguration, the Chief Minister visited the Mahabodhi Temple before inspecting preparations for the upcoming Khelo India Youth Games 2025 in Gaya. Scheduled to begin on May 4, the event will be hosted across five districts, with venues in IIM Bodh Gaya and the Bihar Institute of Public Administration and Rural Development (BIPARD).
According to officials, the new guest house is expected to transform Bodh Gaya into a primary international destination for Buddhist pilgrims and high-level visitors, with the Department of Tourism projecting increased footfall and global visibility.
