Are you planning a trip to Bihar, but unsure of where to start? Bihar is a state in eastern India with a rich history and culture. It is home to several religious sites, ancient ruins, and natural attractions. Here are 10 of the best places to visit in Bihar that should be on your itinerary.
Bodh Gaya
Bodh Gaya is one of the most sacred places in Buddhism. It is believed to be the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. The Mahabodhi Temple complex is the main attraction here, where you can see the Bodhi Tree, which is believed to be the same tree under which Buddha meditated.
Nalanda
Nalanda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the ruins of one of the oldest universities in the world. The Nalanda University was established in the 5th century AD and was a renowned center of learning in ancient India. The ruins of the university are spread over a vast area and include temples, monasteries, and meditation halls.
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Rajgir
Rajgir is a beautiful hill town located in the Nalanda district of Bihar. It is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha delivered some of his most famous sermons. The town is also home to several ancient temples and ruins, including the ruins of the ancient city of Rajgir.
Vaishali
Vaishali is an ancient city that was once the capital of the Vajjian Republic. It is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site and is home to several ancient stupas and temples. The Ashokan Pillar at Kolhua is a major attraction here, which is believed to have been built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC.
Patna
Patna is the capital city of Bihar and is a bustling metropolis. It has a rich history and is home to several historical sites, including the Patna Museum, which houses several ancient artifacts and relics. The Mahavir Mandir, a famous Hindu temple, is also located in Patna.
Gaya
Gaya is an ancient city and an important Hindu pilgrimage site. The city is home to several ancient temples, including the Vishnupad Temple, which is believed to be the place where Lord Vishnu put his foot. The city is also home to several natural attractions, including the Barabar Caves and the Dungeshwari Cave Temples.
Bhagalpur
Bhagalpur is a beautiful city located on the banks of the Ganges River. It is famous for its silk production and is known as the ‘Silk City of India.’ The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary is a major attraction here, which is home to the endangered Gangetic dolphins.
Madhubani
Madhubani is a small town in Bihar that is famous for its traditional Madhubani paintings. These paintings are made using natural dyes and depict mythological themes and everyday life. The town is also home to several ancient temples, including the Shree Vishnu Mandir and the Bhawanipur Kalibari.
Darbhanga
Darbhanga is a beautiful city located in the northern part of Bihar. It is famous for its Mithila paintings, which are traditional paintings made using natural dyes. The city is also home to several ancient temples and monuments, including the Kankali Temple, the Shyama Kali Temple, and the Raj Palace.
Munger
Munger is an ancient city located on the banks of the Ganges River. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is home to several historical sites, including the Munger Fort, which was built by the British in the 18th century. Munger is also famous for its traditional industries, such as the manufacture of firearms and iron goods.
Pawapuri
Pawapuri is a small town located in the Nalanda district of Bihar. It is an important Jain pilgrimage site and is believed to be the place where Lord Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthankara, attained Nirvana. The town is home to several ancient Jain temples, including the Jal Mandir and the Samosharan Temple.
Kesaria
Kesaria is a small village located in the East Champaran district of Bihar. It is famous for its ancient Buddhist stupa, which is believed to have been built during the Mauryan period. The stupa is over 100 feet tall and is one of the tallest Buddhist stupas in the world.
Patna Sahib Gurudwara
The Patna Sahib Gurudwara is an important Sikh pilgrimage site located in Patna. It is believed to be the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. The Gurudwara is a beautiful white marble structure that is surrounded by a large pool of water.
Kakolat Falls
Kakolat Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Nawada district of Bihar. It is a popular tourist destination and is surrounded by lush green forests. The waterfall is approximately 160 feet tall and is a perfect spot for picnics and trekking.
Conclusion
Bihar is a state with a rich history and culture. It is home to several religious sites, ancient ruins, and natural attractions. From Bodh Gaya to Kakolat Falls, there are plenty of places to visit in Bihar that should be on your itinerary.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Bihar? Ans: The best time to visit Bihar is between October and March when the weather is pleasant.
- Is Bihar a safe place to visit? Ans: Yes, Bihar is a safe place to visit. However, like any other place, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions.
- Are there any famous food items in Bihar? Ans: Yes, Bihar is famous for its Litti Chokha, Sattu Paratha, and Dal Pitha.
- How can I travel within Bihar? Ans: You can travel within Bihar by bus, train, or taxi.
- What is the main language spoken in Bihar? Ans: The main language spoken in Bihar is Hindi. However, Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magahi are also widely spoken.