Royal Bhutan Buddhist Temple Inaugurated in Rajgir, Bihar

On September 4, 2025, the Royal Bhutan Buddhist Temple was inaugurated by Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and the Indian Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, in Rajgir, Bihar. The opening, which is conducted in the Buddhist style, is representative of the common religious heritage between India and Bhutan. Rajgir as one of the historic Buddhist sites where Lord Buddha meditated and preached acquires new cultural meaning. The temple traces Bhutanese architecture and fortifies Buddhism tourism in Bihar. It brings forth the long-standing diplomatic, cultural and spiritual connections between India and Bhutan.

What is in the News?

• Buddhist Temple, Royal Bhutan opened at Bihar, Rajgir.
• Estranged Bhutan PM Tshering Tobgay opened it with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju.

Key Highlights

Inauguration Ceremony

• Through the traditional Buddhist rituals performed by religious leaders in the two countries.
• Festivating universal Buddhist culture and mutual friendship.

Spiritual Notification of Rajgir.

• In the Nalanda district, Bihar.
• Allied with the Buddhist meditation and teaching of Lord Buddha.
• Venue of the First Buddhist Council.
• Key site on the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit.

Cultural/Architectural Significant.

• Represents architectural design and spirituality of Bhutan.
• Brings a new cultural landmark to the sacred landscape at Rajgir.
• Spur Buddhist tourism and cultural interactions.

Diplomatic & Religious Integration

• Trophy of Buddhism-India-Bhutan friendship.
• Improves the diplomacy of religion and cultural ties.
• Necessary to increase regional tourism and people-to-people contact.

Conclusion 

Royal Bhutan Buddhist Temple, Rajgir is a representation of common heritage, peace and harmony. It reinforces the India-Bhutan relationship based on cultural diplomacy and enhances the Buddhist tourism in Bihar. The temple will contribute value to the cultural landscapes of both countries in the long term by commemorating a shared Buddhist heritage.