Patna: Bihar, apart from being known for its world-famous religious and historical landmarks, is home to a wealth of natural resources and biodiversity. The state has identified 24 prominent eco-tourism sites to showcase its scenic landscapes, wildlife, and natural beauty. These destinations are ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers seeking sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism experiences.
The Forest and Environment Department is actively exploring additional locations to expand the eco-tourism circuit, following instructions from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to develop new natural sites under eco-tourism initiatives. The aim is to strengthen Bihar’s eco-tourism network and promote environmentally responsible tourism across the state.
Department Initiatives to Expand Eco-Tourism
The Forest and Environment Department has initiated surveys and studies to identify potential new destinations. These efforts include planning tourist-friendly facilities, ensuring environmental protection, and integrating the new sites into the existing eco-tourism circuit. The government’s vision is to provide visitors with memorable natural experiences while maintaining ecological balance.
Currently, Bihar’s eco-tourism circuit comprises 24 diverse sites, including wildlife sanctuaries, lakes, waterfalls, dams, and parks. These locations are spread across the state and highlight Bihar’s rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.
Highlighted Eco-Tourism Sites in Bihar
Some of the key destinations within Bihar’s eco-tourism circuit include:
- Valmiki Tiger Reserve (West Champaran): Bihar’s only tiger reserve, featuring tigers, leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species. Famous for jungle safaris and nature trekking.
- Amwa Man Lake (West Champaran): A peaceful lake near Bettiah, offering birdwatching and boating opportunities.
- Udaipur Wildlife Sanctuary (West Champaran): Located near the Gandak River, with oxbow lakes serving as habitats for migratory birds and aquatic wildlife.
- Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (Bhagalpur): Asia’s only sanctuary dedicated to the endangered Gangetic dolphin; river safaris allow visitors to view dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary (Munger): Known for hot springs, leopards, bears, and nilgai, set amidst the scenic Khargpur hills.
- Rajgir Nature and Zoo Safari (Nalanda): Features glass bridges, ropeways, and safaris with lions, leopards, and migratory birds.
- Ghora Katora (Rajgir): A natural lake surrounded by hills, popular for boating and picnics.
- Pandu Pokhar (Rajgir): A picturesque natural pond.
- Kakolat Waterfall (Nawada): A 150-feet waterfall with surrounding forests, popular for summer bathing.
- Garhi, Nagi, and Nakti Dams (Jamui): Bird sanctuaries attracting thousands of migratory birds in winter.
- Indrapuri Barrage (Rohtas): A center for irrigation and water conservation, with scenic surroundings.
- Manjhar Kund and Dhua Kund (Kaimur): Natural waterfalls and pools.
- Tutla Bhawani Waterfall (Sasaram): Beautiful waterfall near Sasaram.
- Kashish Waterfall (Kaimur): Another attractive waterfall in the Kaimur hills.
- Banka Odhni Dam (Banka): Dam surrounded by natural landscapes.
- Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary: Bihar’s largest sanctuary, home to blackbucks and other wildlife.
- Telhar Kund Waterfall (Rohtas-Kaimur): Scenic waterfall in the hills.
- Karkatgarh Waterfall (Kaimur): A stunning waterfall amidst Kaimur hills.
- Kanwar Lake (Begusarai): Asia’s largest freshwater lake, a Ramsar site and hub for migratory birds.
- Kusheshwarsthan Bird Sanctuary (Darbhanga): Hosts a variety of migratory bird species along the Kosi River.
- Gautam Buddha Wildlife Sanctuary (Gaya): Habitat for several animal and bird species.
- Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park (Patna): A zoo and botanical garden housing tigers, lions, elephants, and hundreds of species, offering nature experiences within the city.
- Eco Park (Patna): Also known as Rajdhani Vatika, it serves as a hub for greenery, recreation, and family-friendly activities.
Promoting Sustainable Tourism
With eco-tourism gaining popularity, Bihar’s government is committed to enhancing infrastructure at these sites while preserving the ecological balance. The expansion of the eco-tourism circuit will help attract both domestic and international tourists, provide livelihood opportunities for local communities, and raise awareness about the state’s natural heritage.
The state’s initiative reflects a growing emphasis on environmentally responsible tourism, encouraging visitors to explore Bihar’s forests, lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries while promoting conservation and sustainability.
