Gujarat government discovers’ state’s Buddha links, to develop tourism circuit

by Tanvir A Siddiqui, Indian Express, Feb 9, 2009

Ahmedabad, India -- The state government, having been prodded by Japan and Sri Lanka, is seriously working in the direction of developing a Buddhist circuit in Gujarat.

Interestingly, the state does not have notable sites, which can help it create a full-fledged tourism circuit.

The sudden official interest in developing a Buddhist tourism circuit has surprised many as Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, strewn with several Buddhist relics, already attract millions from various parts of India and abroad.

"The Sri Lankan tourism minister who was here recently had said that Sri Lanka had a Sri Ram circuit, so Gujarat can consider having a Buddhist circuit," said a Government official.

He also said that Japan, the Vibrant Gujarat event partner this year, also showed interest in supporting Gujarat if it went for the Buddhist circuit.

The Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd (TCGL) has been asked to identify spots that can fit the bill, he said. And, the official informed, the corporation has come out with the names of at least half a dozen places that have some connection with Gautam Buddha.

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Gujarat government discovers’ state’s Buddha links, to develop tourism circuit

by Tanvir A Siddiqui, Indian Express, Feb 9, 2009