The Bihar Cabinet has approved a comprehensive development plan worth ₹882.87 crore for Punaura Dham, the revered birthplace of Goddess Sita in Sitamarhi district. Modeled on the development of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra in Ayodhya, the plan aims to transform Punaura Dham into a major religious and spiritual tourism hub. The project seeks to enhance the pilgrimage experience, boost local economic activity, generate employment, and strengthen the cultural significance of the site within the broader Ramayana Circuit, connecting Sitamarhi with Ayodhya.
Project Funding and Scope
The total cost of the project includes ₹137 crore for the renovation and upgradation of the existing temple complex, ₹728 crore for the development of tourism-related infrastructure, and ₹16 crore earmarked for the operation and maintenance of the site for a period of ten years. The development will be carried out under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model, with the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC), Patna, appointed as the nodal agency responsible for tendering, execution, and overall implementation.
Master Plan Highlights
The master plan envisions restoration of the current temple structure and boundary wall, construction of new religious and tourism facilities, and the creation of comprehensive tourism infrastructure to accommodate increasing footfall. In preparation for the redevelopment, the state government had earlier approved ₹120.59 crore on November 14, 2024, for the acquisition of 50.50 acres of land surrounding the temple complex.
Design Consultant Appointed
On April 25, 2024, the Cabinet appointed M/s Design Associates INC., Noida, as the design consultant for the project. The firm has been tasked with preparing the detailed master plan and architectural designs for the redevelopment of Punaura Dham.
Formation of Temple Trust
To oversee and facilitate the temple’s development, a nine-member Trust Committee has been formed by the state government. The committee is chaired by the Chief Secretary of Bihar and includes senior officials from the Development Commission, Tourism Department, Road Construction Department, Urban Development and Housing Department, and the Commissioner of Tirhut Division. The District Magistrate of Sitamarhi has been appointed as Secretary, the Deputy Development Commissioner of Sitamarhi as Treasurer, and the Mahant of Punaura Dham Math as a member. The Trust’s bank account will be jointly operated by the Secretary and Treasurer to ensure proper financial governance.
Spiritual Tourism and Local Development
Once completed, the transformation of Punaura Dham is expected to elevate Sitamarhi as a key destination in India’s spiritual tourism circuit and contribute significantly to local economic and cultural development.
