Patna, July 16 (APAC Media): The Bihar government has stepped up efforts to position the state as a leading national and global tourism destination with a series of infrastructure, pilgrimage and visitor focused initiatives.
Tourism Minister Kedar Prasad Gupta said the government is strengthening tourism infrastructure, upgrading key religious and cultural sites and introducing new schemes to improve visitor experience and attract investment.
Tourist Footfall Continues to Rise
Bihar recorded more than 6.62 crore tourist visits in 2025.
The growth has continued this year, with over 3.42 crore visitors arriving in the state till May 2026.
The minister said the increasing footfall reflects growing confidence in Bihar’s tourism potential.
Rs 2,700 Crore Projects Underway
The state has approved tourism projects worth over Rs 1,301 crore under the 2025-26 state plan.
In addition, 36 tourism projects worth Rs 2,710.31 crore announced under Pragati Yatra 2025 are being implemented on priority.
The projects aim to strengthen infrastructure, improve connectivity and enhance facilities at major tourist destinations.
Religious, Heritage Sites Get Major Upgrade
The government is expanding tourism infrastructure at several important religious and heritage sites.
These include:
– Punauradham
– Rajgir
– Valmikinagar
– Baba Hariharnath Temple in Sonpur, Phulhar, Singheshwar, Kusheshwarsthan, Patna Haat
– Takht Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib.
The focus is on improving amenities for pilgrims and tourists while preserving the state’s cultural heritage.
New Tourism Schemes Approved
The government has approved several initiatives for 2026-27 to promote tourism and generate local employment.
These include the Mukhyamantri Homestay Promotion Scheme, Sindhu Darshan Pilgrimage Financial Assistance Scheme and the Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Service Scheme.
The schemes are expected to improve tourism services while creating new livelihood opportunities.
Preparations Begin for Shravan Mela
The Tourism Department has started preparations for Shravan Mela 2026 in Bhagalpur, Banka and Munger districts.
Tent cities, information centres, lighting, health facilities, theme gates, laser and drone shows, barricading and other visitor services are being planned for the annual pilgrimage.
Officials said the government is following a time-bound roadmap to make Bihar a modern, safe and globally competitive tourism destination.
The latest investments and tourism initiatives are expected to strengthen the state’s religious, cultural and heritage tourism while creating fresh opportunities for local communities and the economy.
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