Bihar’s tourism landscape is set for a major transformation with the official inclusion of Vikramshila ruins in Bhagalpur’s Kahalgaon into the state’s prestigious Buddhist Circuit. This strategic expansion now brings the total number of districts in the circuit to eight, promising a richer experience for global Buddhist pilgrims and history enthusiasts.
The Bihar Tourism Department’s updated brochure prominently features the ancient Vikramshila University ruins, a once-thriving center of learning established by Pala King Dharmapala in the 8th century. Destroyed in the 13th century, it attracted scholars from across India and abroad, fostering knowledge in philosophy, grammar, logic, and Tantric studies.
What set Vikramshila apart was its grand architecture, including a massive two-storied stupa with a unique cross-shaped structure at its core. The sprawling campus housed an extensive library, Tibetan temple remnants, and Hindu shrines, reflecting a beautiful blend of cultural influences that made it a beacon of intellectual diversity.
To elevate Vikramshila’s global profile, tourism officials are aggressively branding it at Bodh Gaya, distributing specialized brochures to international visitors. This initiative encourages travelers to extend their spiritual journey from Bodh Gaya to Bhagalpur, boosting local economies through increased tourism and job creation.
The expanded Buddhist Circuit now encompasses Gaya-Bodh Gaya as the land of enlightenment, Nalanda-Rajgir for education and peace, Vaishali as Buddha’s sacred ground, historic Patna, Jehanabad’s Barabar Caves, East and West Champaran with Kesariya Stupa and Lauriya Nandangarh, and now Bhagalpur’s Vikramshila. This comprehensive network positions Bihar as an unmissable destination for heritage tourism, preserving and promoting its rich Buddhist legacy on the world stage.