* Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation will construct a tent city with a capacity of 2,500 beds, a helpline, and a temporary tourist information centre.
* E-rickshaws will be operated along with the Maha Aarti on the banks of the Phalgu River.
* Trained tourist guides will be deputed to assist the devotees.
BY DEBAJYOTI CHAKRABORTY
PATNA | 8 SEPTEMBER 2026
Bihar Tourism Secretary Lokesh Kumar Singh has directed officials to expedite all preparations for the upcoming Pitru Paksha fair to ensure its timely completion. Speaking on the significance of the event, the Secretary emphasized that Gaya is a major global centre of religious faith and a vital heritage site representing Bihar’s ancient civilization, culture, and spiritual legacy.
To accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims arriving for the Vedic rituals, the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC) is setting up a 2,500-bed tent city, alongside a temporary tourist information centre.
The administration has announced several key amenities to ensure a smooth experience for devotees:
- Information & Assistance:
A dedicated helpline is being established to provide real-time updates. Trained guides will be stationed at the information centre, and comprehensive brochures will be distributed across major religious sites and Toran gates.
- Transportation: Eco-friendly E-rickshaws will be deployed across the city to assist elderly and needy pilgrims.
- Spiritual Highlights: A grand aarti will be organized on the banks of the Phalgu River as a major attraction during the fair.
To widely promote the Pitru Paksha Mela, the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation is introducing an innovative “Pitripaksha Mela: An Influencer’s Perspective” competition, alongside its traditional travel packages and e-Pind Daan services. This first-of-its-kind contest aims to reward social media influencers who showcase Bihar’s rich heritage and cultural glory. Concurrently, the Tourism Department is accelerating comprehensive, modern infrastructure projects in the Gayaji area. Driven by the Bihar government’s commitment, these development plans are designed to make religious tourism highly convenient, seamless, and well-organized for both domestic and international pilgrims.
A world-class corridor modeled after the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor is set to be constructed around the Vishnupad Temple. This major infrastructure project will transform the temple complex by streamlining devotee movement, improving darshan arrangements, enhancing visitor amenities, and upgrading the area’s overall aesthetics. Additionally, the Tourism Department is fast-tracking a modern, 1,000-bed Gayaji Dharamshala to better accommodate pilgrims and tourists. Being built by the Bihar State Bridge Construction Corporation Limited at an estimated cost of ₹120 crore, this facility will ensure safe, comfortable, and high-quality lodging during the Pitru Paksha Mela and throughout the year, significantly boosting Gaya’s religious tourism infrastructure.
The Bihar government has launched the Chief Minister’s Homestay Promotion Scheme in Gaya district, offering financial assistance of up to ₹11 lakh to eligible beneficiaries. Designed to boost regional tourism and stimulate economic growth, the scheme covers key pilgrimage and heritage sites, including the Vishnupad Temple, Mahabodhi Temple, Dungeshwari Temple, and Gurpa Hill.
According to official sources, the initiative aims to integrate local families directly into tourism activities, creating sustainable employment and self-employment opportunities. By staying with local hosts, visitors will gain firsthand experience of the region’s unique culture, lifestyle, and hospitality. Officials state that the project is expected to significantly increase tourist stays in the Gaya and Bodhgaya circuits, ultimately strengthening the local economy.
Advertisement:
Add Comment