The resumption of international flights at Gaya airport is set to bring a surge in foreign tourists and pilgrims to Bodh Gaya, a sacred site for Buddhists worldwide, in the upcoming tourist season. The arrival of Thai Airways on Thursday, carrying 140 passengers, marked the beginning of this revival. Several other international airlines are set to follow suit, including Myanmar International Airlines (October 16), Myanmar Airways International (October 30), Bhutan Airlines (November 16), and Druk Air (December 2). This renewed connectivity is anticipated to significantly enhance tourism in the region.
Beyond scheduled flights, charter planes carrying groups of tourists will also be operational throughout the tourist season, ensuring a steady stream of visitors. The annual events calendar released by the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee for the 2024-25 season outlines a packed schedule, starting with the Maha Kathina Civara Dana, a traditional robe offering ceremony, on November 3. This event kicks off a series of 41 festivities, culminating on March 21. These events are hosted by various spiritual organizations from across the globe, including Thailand, Korea, China, Tibet, Singapore, Vietnam, and others.
Adding to the yearly celebrations, the arrival of the 14th Dalai Lama, the Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader, during his annual visit, is expected to draw a significant influx of foreign devotees. The 10-day Tipitaka chanting ceremony, scheduled from December 2 to 13, will also attract a large number of participants. While the exact dates for the Dalai Lama’s visit to Bodh Gaya are yet to be confirmed, anticipation for his arrival is high, further adding to the excitement surrounding the upcoming tourist season.
