Patna: The Bihar Tourism Department has initiated plans to develop major religious and cultural sites, including the famous Sonepur Mela and the Ambika Bhawani Temple, as part of its broader strategy to expand tourism infrastructure and generate local employment.
The initiatives fall under the Centre’s Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0, with officials stating that the objective is to strengthen tourism-led livelihoods and reduce migration by creating work opportunities within the state.
Sonepur Mela Development Plan
A development proposal worth Rs 24.29 crore has been prepared for the Sonepur Mela site and submitted to the Union Ministry of Tourism for administrative approval. The fair, held annually on Kartik Purnima at the confluence of the Ganga and Gandak rivers, is recognised as one of Asia’s largest cattle fairs and holds religious, cultural and commercial significance.
Planned upgrades include a grand entry gate, road widening, digital facilities, green energy systems, improved parking, sanitation, lighting and expanded visitor amenities. Officials said the aim is to transform the fairground into a year-round tourist destination with improved infrastructure.
Ambika Bhawani Temple Revamp
Separately, a proposal of around Rs 13.19 crore to Rs 13.29 crore has been submitted for the development of Ambika Bhawani Temple in Ami. The temple, regarded as a Shaktipeeth dedicated to Goddess Sati (Ambika Bhawani), is expected to undergo beautification and infrastructure enhancement.
The proposed work includes riverfront development, parking facilities, a guest house, lighting systems and improved walkways to accommodate pilgrims and tourists more efficiently.
Wider Tourism Infrastructure Push
According to the department, work is currently underway on 33 major tourism projects across Bihar, including sites such as Punaura Dham, the Mahabodhi Centre, Eco Parks and lakefront developments.
A Buddhist meditation centre is also being constructed in Gaya at a cost of Rs 165.44 crore under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, while projects at Matsyagandha Lake in Saharsa and Karamchat Eco-Centre are progressing under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment scheme.
In addition, five five-star hotels are being developed under public-private partnership (PPP) mode in Rajgir, Vaishali and Patna, including two upcoming properties near Income Tax Golambar and Bankipur Bus Stand at Gandhi Maidan.
