Tour operators to hold roadshow in Varanasi to boost Bodh Gaya tourism

Gaya: In an effort to attract more domestic and international tourists to Bodh Gaya during the lean travel season, the Association of Buddhist Tour Operators (ABTO) will organise a roadshow in Varanasi later this month. A decision to this effect was taken at a meeting of hoteliers associated with the Bodh Gaya Hotel Association, held in Bodh Gaya on Sunday evening. Discussions focused on strategies to increase tourists’ footfall during the off-season and promote Bodh Gaya as a longer-stay destination.

ABTO Bihar chapter president Manish Kumar Mishra said the initiative is aimed at showcasing the tourism potential of Bodh Gaya and neighbouring destinations such as Rajgir and Nalanda. “It is due to the Unesco world heritage shrine Mahabodhi Mahavihara, Bodh Gaya remains one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world and attracts visitors from several countries each year. But majority of the tourists flock during the winter season only, while the summer is considered as a lean period,” Mishra said.

ABTO Bihar chapter spokesperson Sudama Kumar said, “Tour operators from Varanasi would be invited to the roadshow and briefed about accommodation facilities and tourism infrastructure available in Bodh Gaya.” “Tourist footfall in Varanasi has increased after the development of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor. The ABTO is making efforts that tourists visiting Varanasi also include Bodh Gaya, Rajgir and Nalanda in their travel plan,” he said.

Sudama added, “The ABTO is also working on a strategy to encourage tourists to stay in Bodh Gaya and undertake visits to Rajgir and Nalanda from here.” At present, many tourists visit Bodh Gaya but do not stay for long. The roadshow will provide an opportunity to communicate directly with tour operators in Varanasi and highlight the facilities and tourism experiences available in Bodh Gaya, he added.