The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) proposes to offer sites across the state to develop Buddhist theme parks and monasteries. Additionally, the government plans to promote Buddhism’s existing tourist hotspots in the state Ajanta and Ellora Caves, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.
The recent Buddhist Conclave held in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, on August 24 was organized by the state government in association with the Tourism Ministry of Central Government to educate people about the various destinations associated with Buddhism.
Also, at the 6th International Buddhist Conclave 2018 held in New Delhi, the President of India had good news for Buddhist Tourism. He announced new developments by the Ministry of Tourism- a new website named ‘indiathelandofbuddha.in’, along with a new video film titled ‘India – the land of Buddha.’
As an initiative to strengthen its ties with the countries following Buddhism, the Maharashtra government will allot land to develop theme parks and monasteries as well as educate people about the existing heritage through its plan of promoting Ajanta and Ellora Caves that date back to some of the oldest relics of the religion.
Maharashtra has immense potential when it comes to Buddhist Tourism, as the state has ancient sites, heritage, culture, tours, and other facilities. The state government also plans to tie up with the KJ Somaiya Centre for Buddhist Studies, Mumbai, to design new tour packages aiming to boost Buddhist tourism in the state. Also, measures are being taken to encourage and aim local bodies to build Buddhist Circuits in the state.
Buddhist heritage in Maharashtra includes the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Elephanta Caves and Kanheri Caves in Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Global Vipassana Pagoda in Gorai, Karla and Bhaja Caves in Pune, Stupa in Nalasopara, Mandapeshwar Caves in Borivali, Chaityabhoomi in Dadar, Pandavleni Caves in Nashik, and Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur.
Maharashtra Tourism Minister Jaykumar Rawal stated that the aim is to highlight the significant locations of Lord Buddha and Buddhism in the state. The plan is, however, not very easy as there is a need for better connectivity to Ajanta and Ellora Caves as well as the other marked destinations.
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