Nepal and India are discussing the development of integrated Buddhist and Ramayana tourism circuits, as well as expanding air connectivity between Nepal's international airports and major Indian cities. The talks aim to improve the viability of Nepal's international airports by opening additional air routes from India.
Regular commercial flights are being considered between Pokhara International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport with major Indian cities. Both countries share important religious pilgrimage sites associated with Buddhism and the Ramayana, including Lumbini in Nepal (birthplace of Lord Buddha) and Bodh Gaya in Bihar (where he attained enlightenment).
Ayodhya in India and Janakpur in Nepal are also significant Ramayana pilgrimage sites.
A special train service connecting Ayodhya and Janakpur is being planned. India conducted a trial run for the proposed Ayodhya-Janakpur railway service in early November. Nepal and India aim to promote joint tourism and develop integrated Buddhist and Ramayana circuits, emphasizing the importance of preserving their shared cultural heritage.
Nepal's Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai met with Indian Ambassador Sudhakar Dalela to discuss bilateral cooperation on these initiatives.