Patna: Bihar is preparing to give its tourism sector a technology-led makeover, combining its thousands of years of heritage with artificial intelligence (AI), digital technology, heli-tourism, modern tourist facilities and homestays.
Speaking on World Tourism Day, Tourism Minister Kedar Prasad Gupta said Bihar cannot move ahead in the digital era without adopting AI and modern technology. The state is now looking to strengthen its presence not only nationally but also on the global tourism map.
The push comes after Bihar recorded more than 6.62 crore tourist arrivals in 2025, highlighting the growing potential of the sector.
Rs 4,011 Crore Push for Tourism Projects
Gupta said the state government, under the guidance of Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, is working to connect tourism with development, employment and the local economy.
For tourism development, Rs 1,301 crore was approved in the financial year 2025-26. In addition, 36 priority projects worth Rs 2,710 crore were approved under Pragati Yatra 2025.
The focus ranges from religious and heritage tourism to modern experiences, better connectivity and facilities for visitors.
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From Punaura Dham to Vishnupad and Hariharnath
Several major religious tourism projects are being developed across Bihar.
At Punaura Dham in Sitamarhi, a grand temple dedicated to Maa Sita is being constructed at a cost of more than Rs 1,000 crore.
In Gaya, the Vishnupad Temple Corridor is being developed at a cost of Rs 2,500 crore, while the Hariharnath Temple Corridor in Sonpur is being developed with an investment of more than Rs 680 crore.
Development work is also progressing at Baba Garibnath Temple, Ashok Dham and Ahilyasthan.
The objective is not limited to beautifying religious sites. The projects are also aimed at improving tourist facilities, connectivity, employment and economic activity in surrounding areas.
Glass Bridge, Heli-Tourism and New Tourist Experiences
Bihar is also expanding tourism beyond conventional religious and heritage circuits.
A Buddhist Meditation and Experience Centre in Bodh Gaya is being developed at a cost of Rs 165 crore. A glass bridge at Matsyagandha Lake in Saharsa and Lav-Kush Park in Valmiki Nagar are also being developed.
The state is also focusing on expanding five-star hotel-like facilities in Patna, Rajgir and Vaishali.
Heli-tourism is another major component of the plan. Aerial tourism facilities are being planned for destinations such as Patna Darshan, Nalanda and Valmiki Nagar. An air ambulance service is also being planned.
A proposed ropeway from Atal Path in Patna to Hariharnath Temple is expected to add another dimension to the tourism experience.
Homestays to Take Tourism Benefits to Villages
The government is also looking to ensure that tourism growth reaches local communities.
Under the Mukhyamantri Homestay Yojana, around 1,000 rooms at 34 tourist destinations are being developed. Beneficiaries can receive financial assistance of up to Rs 11 lakh per unit.
Under the tourism policy, Bihar has set a target of providing skill development training to one lakh people and creating more than 20 lakh employment opportunities over the next five years.
To attract private investment into tourism, the policy also provides for capital subsidies of 25–30 per cent.
AI Could Become Bihar Tourism’s Digital Guide
Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Nand Kishore said AI has the potential to change the entire tourism experience.
By analysing tourists’ preferences, searches and travel-related data, technology can provide personalised information about destinations, hotels, food and other facilities.
Robotics and language technology could also help international visitors from countries such as China, Japan and South Korea receive assistance in their own languages.
Airports and major tourist destinations such as Bodh Gaya could become key locations for deploying such technologies, making travel and information access easier for visitors.
Tourism as a Link Between Culture and Economy
Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation General Manager Chandan Chauhan, in his welcome address, said tourism is not simply travel from one place to another. It connects cultures, traditions and civilisations while supporting local economies, employment and heritage conservation.
A discussion organised for World Tourism Day focused on “Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism”, with experts discussing the possibilities of technology in transforming the sector.
Cultural Heritage Takes Centre Stage
The programme concluded with cultural performances showcasing Bihar’s rich folk traditions, art, culture and heritage.
Through music and cultural presentations, artists highlighted the state’s diverse folk-art traditions and cultural heritage. Guests and visitors appreciated the performances at the conclusion of the programme.
The event was attended by BIA president Sunil Kumar Singh, YourHeritage director Rachna Priyadarshi, NIT Patna professor Dr Jyoti Prakash Singh, IIT Bihta professor Dr Samrat Mandal, Bihar Chapter chairman Prabhat Kumar and Panas Group general manager Girish Sinha, along with tourism officials and experts.
With AI, religious corridors, heli-tourism, homestays, modern infrastructure and large employment targets being pursued together, Bihar is positioning tourism as a potential driver of culture, jobs, local livelihoods and economic activity, while seeking a stronger place on the national and global tourism map.
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