Gaya, September 15 (Daily Kiran) : In Gaya, Bihar, the Pitripaksha Mela is attracting an increasing number of visitors each year, with the anticipated attendance for this year reaching 5 million. Over the past four years, the number of pilgrims has surged nearly fourfold. In 2022, approximately 940,000 visitors attended, a figure that skyrocketed to nearly 3.48 million in 2025.
The tourism department has initiated extensive preparations, anticipating the influx of visitors from September 25, when the festival begins. The plan includes providing accommodations, transportation, food, and other essential services for the attendees.
The growth in visitor numbers is evident from the statistics over the last four years. In 2022, Gaya welcomed 940,000 tourists, comprising 938,000 domestic and 1,518 international visitors. This figure jumped to nearly 2.99 million in 2023, with 2.90 million domestic and 82,000 foreign tourists. The following year, 2024, saw a slight increase to 3.06 million, including 2.90 million domestic and 155,000 international visitors. The trend continued in 2025, with a total of 3.48 million visitors, predominantly domestic.
To accommodate the expected surge, the facilities have been expanded significantly. A modern tent city with 2,500 beds is being constructed, along with a 1,000-bed dharamshala. Additionally, a pavilion capable of seating 5,000 people is being set up at the Punpun Ghat.
To assist tourists, information centers and a dedicated helpline will be established. E-rickshaws will facilitate local transportation, and trained guides will provide insights into religious and historical sites. Efforts are also underway to enhance lodging arrangements in hotels and dharamshalas.
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