Third International Conference on Tourism & Leisure Studies

Abstract

Rajgir (originally known as Girivraj) is a city and a notified area in Nalanda district in the Indian state of Bihar. The city of Rajgir was the first capital of the kingdom of Magadha, a state that would eventually evolve into the Mauryan Empire. Its date of origin is unknown, although ceramics dating to about 1000 BC have been found in the city. This area is also notable in Jainism and Buddhism as one of the favorite places for Lord Mahavira and Gautama Buddha and the well known “Atanatiya” conference was held at Vulture’s Peak Mountain. The area under the city is about 61.6 square kilometers, surrounded by forest and mountains. The place is having great potential for tourism and is receiving second largest number of international tourist after Bodh- Gaya (according to the data of Bihar Tourism), also a large number of domestic tourist visits the place from other parts of Bihar and rest of the country, but State Government have is unable to generate revenues to the potential of this beautiful place. In the recent years, the State Government is planning to develop some eco-tourism spots, which includes Rajgir Wild- Life Safari in Pant Wildlife Sanctuary, Ghora Katora Lake and places adjacent to the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. This study will focus on the problems, issues and strategies and conclusion for the development of ecotourism in Rajgir.