BHOJPUR: Tourist arrivals in Panchdhara, located in Temkemaiyung Rural Municipality-9 of Bhojpur district, have begun to increase following the construction of a Buddhist stupa aimed at promoting religious tourism and fostering religious harmony.
The local government has prioritised the development of religious infrastructure to transform Panchdhara, a region known for its natural beauty, into an attractive religious and tourism destination.
According to Navaraj Mangpahang, Chairperson of Ward No. 9 of Temkemaiyung Rural Municipality, the local government has moved ahead with a broader concept of developing ‘Panch Dham’ to establish Panchdhara as a comprehensive religious destination.
Along with the construction of the stupa, a stairway footpath has also been built to make it easier for visitors to access the site.
The stupa was constructed at a cost of Rs. 2.7 million provided by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. Mangpahang said the number of domestic and international visitors had increased following its completion.
Modelled on the architectural design of the Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, the newly constructed structure measures 26 feet in length and width and stands 21 feet tall. According to Mangpahang, the stupa was built primarily to cater to Buddhist devotees and further strengthen the religious significance of Panchdhara.
“Panchdhara is blessed with considerable natural, religious and tourism potential,” Mangpahang said, adding that the construction of the stupa had enhanced the area’s appeal among Buddhist visitors.
He said the local government was also focusing on developing essential infrastructure to establish the area as a recognised religious tourism destination.
Local resident Binod Kumar Rai said tourist arrivals had increased following the construction of the stupa in Panchdhara, which lies along the border between Bhojpur and Khotang districts.
He said ongoing infrastructure development had generated enthusiasm among local residents, as the region is home to several sites with natural, religious and tourism significance.
“Panchdhara has numerous places with considerable tourism potential. The infrastructure development initiatives being undertaken by the local government to attract visitors have encouraged us,” Rai said.
Locals believe that further investment in infrastructure development, promotion and publicity could help establish Panchdhara as an important religious and tourism destination in Bhojpur, creating opportunities for local economic activities and community participation.
Comment