Uttar Pradesh, known for its diverse religious and historical heritage, is planning to allocate approximately Rs 300 million to improve the infrastructure at Sankisa, a revered Buddhist site in the Farrukhabad district. This development aims to enhance tourist facilities and create a more enriching experience for visitors who embark on a spiritual journey to this sacred place.
Investment for Tourist Development: Jaiveer Singh, the Tourism Minister of Uttar Pradesh, recently announced that the government’s investment will primarily focus on the development of tourist facilities at the famous Buddh Vihar. With an allocated budget of approximately Rs 200 million, this initiative involves the construction of various amenities to cater to the needs of tourists. The funds will be utilized for the construction of a boundary wall, ensuring the safety and security of all visitors. Additionally, water facilities will be set up to provide for the basic needs of tourists, while passenger sheds will offer shelter from unpredictable weather conditions. Proper lighting arrangements will be implemented to provide a safe and pleasant environment for everyone.
Enhancing Amenities for Visitors: Recognizing the importance of comfort and convenience, the government will also invest in the construction of toilets and restrooms, ensuring hygienic and clean facilities for pilgrims and tourists. Moreover, a passenger hall will be built, providing a space where visitors can gather and take a moment for reflection before or after exploring the sacred site.
Preservation of Relic of Lord Buddha: In addition to the infrastructure development, a Buddhist museum will be established across the sprawling land of 2.25 acres. With an assured budget of Rs 100 million, this museum will play a crucial role in preserving and showcasing the historical and cultural significance of Sankisa. It will serve as an educational hub, attracting both locals and tourists exploring the Buddhist circuit of Uttar Pradesh.
Significance of Sankisa in Buddhism: As per ancient legends and belief, Sankisa holds great religious importance, as it is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha descended after preaching to his mother in Devlok. This event marked a milestone in the Buddhist narrative, making Sankisa a revered pilgrimage site for followers of Buddha’s teachings.
Uttar Pradesh’s Buddhist Circuit: This initiative to enhance the infrastructure at Sankisa reflects the Uttar Pradesh government’s commitment to promoting religious tourism across the state. Sankisa is part of the Buddhist circuit, which encompasses several major sites of Buddhism, including Kapilavastu, Kaushambi, Kushinagar, Shravasti, and Sarnath. The Buddhist circuit in Uttar Pradesh attracts worldwide attention, catering to the spiritual needs of both domestic and international tourists. Buddhism, one of the world’s major religions, traces its roots back to these sacred sites in Uttar Pradesh. As a result, the government’s investments in improving infrastructure serve a dual purpose – preserving the heritage and catering to the growing demands of spiritual tourism.
In Conclusion: While Sankisa already holds immense importance in the Buddhist circuit, the proposed infrastructure enhancements are set to elevate its appeal and ease the visitation experience. The allocation of Rs 300 million indicates the government’s dedication to preserving and promoting the historical and religious significance of Sankisa. Tourists will soon benefit from upgraded facilities, including a boundary wall, passenger sheds, water facilities, lighting, toilets, restrooms, and a passenger hall. Moreover, the establishment of a Buddhist museum will further enrich the visitors’ knowledge about the site’s spiritual and cultural heritage. As Uttar Pradesh strengthens its commitment to religious tourism, visitors to Sankisa can look forward to a more immersive and spiritually fulfilling journey in the coming years.
