Bodh Gaya to Get ₹165 Crore Buddhist Meditation and Experience Centre

A Buddhist meditation and experience centre to come up at Bodhgaya, a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. 

In a major push for spiritual tourism, the Bihar government has approved the construction of a state-of-the-art Buddhist Meditation and Experience Centre in Bodh Gaya. The project, sanctioned at a cost of ₹165.44 crore under the Centre’s Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0, aims to offer visitors an immersive journey into the teachings and legacy of Buddhism.

The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC) will implement the project. The centre received technical clearance on April 2, 2025, followed by administrative and cabinet approvals on May 16 and May 22, respectively.

As per reports, the centre’s design will draw heavily from ancient Buddhist architecture, notably the historic Kesariya Stupa in Bihar. Spread over 8.5 acres near Node–I in Bodh Gaya, the facility will feature meditation halls, digital exhibition spaces, and tranquil zones designed for spiritual practice and reflection. An additional 7 acres near Domuhan have been earmarked for complementary development.

Officials expect the project to significantly enhance the tourism appeal of Bodh Gaya, while also contributing to the local economy through job creation and increased business opportunities. The centre is expected to serve as a gateway for both domestic and international tourists seeking a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy.

This initiative aligns with the Union Budget 2024–25’s focus on the holistic development of Gaya and Bodh Gaya. As the site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, Bodh Gaya remains a cornerstone of global Buddhist pilgrimage. The upcoming centre is poised to further cement its status as a spiritual and cultural hub, reinforcing India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich Buddhist heritage.