Buddhist Tourism Links India and Asia

18-05-24

"Buddhist tourism has the capability not only to promote tourism for economic development but also to connect India with other Asian countries culturally," stated Mallepally Laxmaiah, Vice President of the Association of Buddhist Tour Operators (ABTO). He made these remarks at a seminar titled ‘Promoting Buddhist Sectors on Asian Highway,’ organized in Thimphu by ABTO in collaboration with representatives from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Myanmar.

Mr. Laxmaiah emphasized the significant potential of Buddhist tourism in Telangana, highlighting the Buddhavanam project, a unique Buddhist Heritage Theme Park at Nagarjuna Sagar. He encouraged tour operators to leverage this potential to attract Buddhist tourists from across Asia. Furthermore, he proposed an International Happiness March between India and Bhutan, which is currently under consideration by both governments.

ABTO General Secretary, Dr. Kaulesh Kumar, elaborated on the seminar's objectives, noting that it gathered travel agents, tour operators, and hoteliers to discuss strategies for enhancing Buddhist tourism. This initiative aims to strengthen cultural ties and boost economic growth through increased tourism.