Buddhist Circuit Northeast: Budget 2026–27 Heritage Tourism Plan
Why in the news
While presenting Union Budget 2026–27, Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled a new Northeast Buddhist Circuit scheme. It treats tourism as a means to protect monastic heritage, create livelihoods and build cultural diplomacy.
Key facts
- Scheme covers upkeep of monasteries and temples, pilgrim interpretation centres and facilities for monks, pilgrims and tourists.
- Five tourism destinations in Purvodaya States; 4,000 e-buses for green last-mile access.
- ₹5,000 crore over five years for City Economic Regions (CERs), supporting hospitality, crafts and MSMEs.
- The East Coast Industrial Corridor complements the circuit through trade, logistics and jobs.
Monasteries mapped
| State | Monastery | Noteworthy point |
|---|---|---|
| Arunachal Pradesh | Tawang | Biggest in India, second-biggest worldwide; 17th century; 18-foot gilded Buddha |
| Arunachal Pradesh | Urgelling | Birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama |
| Arunachal Pradesh | Golden Pagoda, Namsai | Burmese-style Theravada pagoda |
| Sikkim | Rumtek | Exile seat of the Gyalwang Karmapa (Kagyu) |
| Sikkim | Dubdi | Oldest in the State (1701) |
About the circuit
- Heritage tourism to restore monasteries, improve connectivity and promote pilgrimage across Mahayana, Vajrayana and Theravada traditions.
- Fits the Act East Policy, Purvodaya and cultural soft power.
Exam angle
- Sikkim follows the Nyingma and Kagyu schools.
- Arunachal has India’s densest Mahayana cluster, mainly in Tawang and West Kameng.