Patna: The Bihar Tourism Department has launched a special transport facility for devotees and tourists travelling to Rajgir during the Malmas Mela, aiming to provide safer, smoother and more comfortable travel from Patna and nearby regions.
The initiative is being operated by the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation Limited under government-regulated fare structures. Officials said the service has been introduced to manage the expected rise in tourist and pilgrim footfall during the religious gathering.
Wide Range of Vehicles Available
According to the Tourism Department, travellers can choose from multiple categories of air-conditioned vehicles depending on their budget and group size.
The fleet includes Alto, Swift Dzire, Bolero, Scorpio, Innova Crysta, Traveller, Winger and Deluxe buses. Luxury Caravan vehicles and Caravan buses have also been introduced as part of the expanded tourism transport service.
Officials said smaller AC vehicles such as Alto, Indigo and Swift Dzire will be available at approximately Rs 14 per kilometre. Larger SUVs including Bolero, Scorpio and Safari Storm are priced at around Rs 17 per kilometre, while Innova Crysta bookings will cost approximately Rs 18 per kilometre.
The Tourism Department has fixed fares for Caravan cars at nearly Rs 35 per kilometre. Luxury Caravan buses, equipped with premium onboard facilities, are priced at around Rs 75 per kilometre.
Caravan Services Introduced for Tourists
The department has also introduced high-end Caravan services aimed at families and group travellers seeking extended comfort during their journey.
Officials said the Caravan bus can accommodate up to 10 passengers and includes facilities such as sleeper beds, recliner seats, sofas, television, refrigerator, microwave, kitchen and modern bathroom amenities.
The Caravan car service, designed for smaller groups of around seven passengers, also includes onboard facilities such as a TV, refrigerator, microwave, bathroom and comfortable seating arrangements.
Tourism officials stated that the Caravan service is intended to reduce the need for separate hotel bookings while allowing tourists to travel comfortably between destinations.
Service Available Throughout the Year
The Tourism Department clarified that the transport service is not limited to the Malmas Mela period and will remain available year-round for travel to religious and tourist destinations across Bihar.
Passengers can book vehicles according to travel distance and specific requirements. The final fare will depend on the selected vehicle category and total journey distance.
Booking and Contact Details
Travellers can make bookings and seek information through the official website of Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation or by contacting the department via WhatsApp and mobile number 8544418209.
Bookings and enquiries can also be made through email at transportbstdc@gmail.com. In-person assistance is available at the department office located behind Hotel Panache Kautilya on Daroga Rai Path in Patna.
Focus on Tourism and Crowd Management
Rajgir is expected to witness a significant rise in visitors during the Malmas Mela due to its religious and historical importance.
Tourists visiting the region often travel to attractions including the World Peace Stupa, Hot Springs and Glass Bridge. Officials believe the new transport arrangement will help reduce travel-related inconvenience and improve crowd management during the festival period.
