Reimagining Shravasti as global hub of Buddhist heritage

Lucknow: UP is looking to adopt spiritual tourism models on the lines of Vatican City and Angkor Wat to redevelop Shravasti and to position it as an internationally recognised spiritual destination, under Central govt’s Iconic Sites Development Scheme. Officials said nearly 60% of the work has been completed.The Rs 76.53-crore integrated Buddhist tourism project aims to transform Shravasti into an immersive spiritual and heritage destination, with modern visitor infrastructure, interactive interpretation facilities and environmentally sensitive public spaces.Additional chief secretary (tourism, culture and religious affairs) Amrit Abhijat, “Visitors must experience not just religious significance of Shravasti but also its cultural and historical depth, so we are creating a holistic spiritual experience for lasting impression.”An "experience journey" will unfold at the temple town, which attracts devotees from Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Bhutan, Nepal, China and Japan. The 1.32-km-long Buddhavanam Path, a landscaped pedestrian corridor connecting key points of the heritage complex will include sandstone flooring, seating areas, plantations, signage, lighting and wayside amenities to improve movement and comfort. A ceremonial entrance gate inspired by Buddhist architectural motifs is also under construction.The state is also developing a modern Interpretation Centre spanning 2,650 square metres between Jetavana and Buddhavanam Garden. Equipped with multimedia exhibits, video installations and AR-VR facilities, the centre will offer interactive engagement for tourists, children and elderly visitors and include exhibition galleries, souvenir spaces and public facilities.Another key component is the 47,000-square-metre Buddhavanam Garden, a contemplative landscape inspired by Buddhist philosophy, featuring meditation lawns, lotus-themed spaces, stone walls narrating Buddha’s journey and a central Dharmachakra Buddha sculpture.Officials said sustainability is core focus, with climate-responsive planning, green landscaping and smart technologies integrated into the design. Tourism minister Jaiveer Singh said aim is to place Shravasti on global Buddhist tourism map through world-class infrastructure rooted in heritage and spirituality.