MTDC hosts International Buddhist Conclave 2018 in Aurangabad

Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), in association with Ministry of Tourism, has organised the “6th International Buddhist Conclave 2018 in Aurangabad from August 23-26. The International Buddhist Conclave 2018, aimed to encourage the prominent Buddhist heritage and pilgrim sites in Maharashtra, highlighted the traditional and historical facets of Buddhism across the world.

Buddhist delegates, monks and the consulate general from 12 to 15 Buddhist nations were present at the conclave where, business meetings between them and domestic tour operators were facilitated. Additionally, presentations and cultural programmes highlighted the Buddhist attractions across the state. The conclave offered participants a platform to interact, encourage, package and sell pilgrimage tours to potential tourists.

The International Buddhist Conclave is testament of the Ministry of Tourism and Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation towards its commitment to advance the experience of travellers as well as tourists looking to experience the spirit of Buddhist inheritance of our country.

“Buddhist Tourism is a growing sector and the International Buddhist Conclave will help us understand its potential and opportunities to promote Buddhist sites in the state. I am certain through this initiative Maharashtra will be able to encourage Buddhist travellers from across the world. The Ministry of Tourism has also recognized stupas and viharas across the country and is planning to develop these Buddhist Circuits,” said Jaykumar Rawal, Minister of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra.

“I would like to express my gratitude to all the delegates from all over the world who have joined us at the International Buddhist Conclave 2018 in Aurangabad. This is a great opportunity for us to interact with each other and promote the teachings of Lord Buddha. Buddhism binds the culture of our country and neighbouring nations,” said Vijay Kumar Gautam, Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Government of Maharashtra.

Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation is promoting the Buddhist Circuits which includes Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur, Stupa in Nalasopara, the Global Vipassana Pagoda in Gorai, the Mandapeshwar Caves in Borivali, Chaityabhoomi in Dadar, the Elephanta Caves and the Kanheri Caves in Sanjay Gandhi National Park to name a few.