Patna: A 28-member delegation from Thailand visited world-famous Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya on Sunday as part of Bihar tourism department’s familiarisation tour. The delegation, visiting Bihar as part of a Buddhist circuit tour, offered prayers at the temple and experienced the spiritual significance of the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.The Thai visitors paid their respects at the sacred site and spent time in the temple complex. The peaceful and spiritual atmosphere of Mahabodhi Temple deeply impressed the delegation members.They described their visit to Bodh Gaya as an unforgettable experience and said being at the place associated with Buddha’s enlightenment was spiritually significant and emotionally moving.Udayan Mishra, special secretary-cum-director, Tourism, said, “The state govt was focusing on the development and promotion of destinations associated with the Buddhist circuit and on providing international visitors with a better tourism experience.”He said the visit by the Thai delegation would help showcase Bihar’s Buddhist heritage internationally and further strengthen tourism and cultural ties between India and Thailand.During their stay in Bodh Gaya, the delegation also visited Dungeshwari Hills, Sujata Temple and Sujata Stupa. They additionally explored Thai Temple, Archaeological Survey of India Museum and the 80-foot Buddha statue.Bihar tourism department has designed the tour to familiarise international visitors with the state’s Buddhist, historical and cultural heritage. The delegation is also being introduced to Bihar’s local culture, traditions and hospitality during the tour.The delegation’s Bihar itinerary will continue from Bodh Gaya to other major tourism and heritage destinations. On Sept 21, the visitors are scheduled to travel to Gehlaur, where they will visit Dashrath Manjhi Memorial, followed by Rajgir Nature Safari and Glass Bridge.The delegation is also scheduled to visit the ancient Nalanda Mahavihara, a Unesco world heritage site. In Rajgir, the itinerary includes a visit to World Peace Pagoda, Venu Van and other prominent attractions.The tour will then proceed to Vaishali, where the delegation is scheduled to visit Relic Stupa, World Peace Pagoda and Ashokan Pillar at Kolhua.
