Struggles in Bodh Gaya: Despite Spiritual Significance, Tourists Remain Elusive

Photo : Hindustan times

Despite its immense spiritual significance as the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment, Bodh Gaya struggles to attract tourists, prompting calls for infrastructure development and improved facilities by local leaders.

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, stands as one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites globally. However, it fails to draw as many tourists as expected, hindering its potential for spiritual tourism revenue. Suresh Singh, President of the Travel Association in Bodh Gaya, emphasized the dependence of Bodh Gaya on religious tourists and the urgent need for a Buddhist corridor to accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims and tourists. Singh expressed disappointment over the delay in government action regarding this matter, stressing the importance of developing Bodh Gaya's infrastructure to attract tourists throughout the year.

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Singh highlighted the desire of Buddhists from various countries to visit Bodh Gaya and urged the government to ensure year-round accessibility by improving transportation options. He proposed the establishment of a Buddhist medical college in Gaya, akin to the CMCH in the South, to cater to the religious sentiments of Buddhist visitors and boost tourism in the region.

Sudama Kumar, General Secretary of the Hotel Association, echoed Singh's sentiments, emphasizing the genuine demand for the Bodh Gaya Corridor to enhance tourist experiences. He cited the success of similar corridors in places like Varanasi and called for consistent development efforts in Bodh Gaya, including the preservation of heritage sites and the protection of holy rivers like Niranjana.

Additionally, concerns were raised about the lack of adequate hospital facilities in Bodh Gaya, with a Buddhist monk advocating for the construction of a world-class hospital in the area to cater to the needs of residents and visitors alike.

Overall, the calls for infrastructure development and improved facilities in Bodh Gaya underscore the importance of harnessing its spiritual significance to boost tourism and economic growth in the region.

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