Places to Visit in Bihar

Bihar is a state in eastern India rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. The state is home to several historical and religious sites that attract tourists from all over the world. This article will explore some of the top places to visit in Bihar.

Mahabodhi Temple

Mahabodhi Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. It is one of the world's most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites and is believed to be where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple is known for its exquisite architecture and is home to a large statue of the Buddha. Visitors can also explore the beautiful gardens and meditation centres around the temple.

Nalanda University

Nalanda University is a historic site located near the town of Rajgir in Bihar. It was one of the world's first universities and was a centre of learning for Buddhist scholars between the 5th and 12th centuries. The university is now in ruins, but visitors can still explore the remains of the library, temples, and lecture halls that have survived.

Patna Museum

Patna Museum is a popular destination for history lovers in Bihar. The museum houses a collection of over 50,000 artefacts, including rare coins, sculptures, and paintings. The museum's highlights include a 250-year-old Persian carpet, a group of Mauryan and Gupta period sculptures, and a group of images by Rabindranath Tagore.

Rajgir

Rajgir is a historic town located in the Nalanda district of Bihar. It was the capital of the Magadha Empire during the 6th century BC and is known for its hot springs and temples. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, including the Cyclopean Wall, believed to have been built during the time of King Bimbisara.

Bodhgaya

Bodh Gaya is a city located in the Gaya district of Bihar. It is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and is believed to be where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Visitors can explore the Mahabodhi Temple and other important areas, such as the Bodhi Tree, where Buddha is believed to have meditated.

Vaishali

Vaishali is a historic town located in the Muzaffarpur district of Bihar. It was the capital of the Vajjian Confederacy and is known for its Buddhist and Jain heritage. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient structures, such as the Ananda Stupa and the Kutagarashala Vihara.

Vikramshila University

Vikramshila University is an ancient university located in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. It was a learning centre for Buddhist scholars between the 8th and 12th centuries and is now in ruins. Visitors can explore the remains of the university, including the main temple and the monastery.

Kakolat Waterfall

Kakolat Waterfall is a popular tourist attraction located near the town of Nawada in Bihar. The waterfall is located in a picturesque valley surrounded by lush green forests. Visitors can enjoy a swim in the clear waters or take a walk along the nearby hiking trails.

Pawapuri

Pawapuri is a sacred site for Jains in the Nalanda district of Bihar. It is believed to be where Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, attained Nirvana. Visitors can explore the Jain temples and other important sites, such as the Jal Mandir and the Samosharan Temple.

Kesaria Stupa

Kesaria Stupa is a Buddhist stupa in the East Champaran district of Bihar. It is believed to be the tallest Buddhist stupa in the world, standing at 104 feet. The stupa is believed to have been built during the Mauryan Empire in the 3rd century BC and is a popular destination for history lovers and Buddhist pilgrims.

Madhubani

Madhubani is a town located in the Madhubani district of Bihar. It is known for its unique art form, Madhubani painting, characterized by vibrant colours and intricate designs. Visitors can explore the town and witness the artisans at work or purchase their pieces of Madhubani art.

Gandhi Museum

The Gandhi Museum is located in the city of Patna and is dedicated to the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. The museum houses a collection of photographs, paintings, and personal belongings of Gandhi. Visitors can learn about Gandhi's life and contribution to India's independence movement.

Pawapuri Jal Mandir

Pawapuri Jal Mandir is a Jain temple in the Nalanda district of Bihar. The temple was built in the middle of a large pond and is believed to be where Lord Mahavira attained Nirvana. Visitors can take a boat ride to the temple and witness the beautiful architecture and religious rituals.

Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is a popular festival celebrated in Bihar and other parts of northern India. The festival is dedicated to worshipping the Sun God and involves a series of rituals over four days. Visitors can witness the colourful celebrations and experience the rich cultural heritage of Bihar.

Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary

Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Rohtas district of Bihar and is home to various flora and fauna. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 1,345 square kilometres and is home to animals such as tigers, leopards, wild boars, and deer. Visitors can take a safari ride and explore the sanctuary's natural beauty.

Nalanda

Nalanda is an ancient city located in the Nalanda district of Bihar. It is famous for the old Nalanda University, a learning centre in the 5th century AD. The university attracted scholars from all over the world and was a major centre of Buddhist learning. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the university and learn about the region's rich history.

Vikramshila

Vikramshila is another ancient university located in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. King Dharmapala founded it in the 8th century AD and was a major Buddhist learning centre. The university had a large library and attracted scholars from all over the world. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the university and learn about its history.

Sasaram

Sasaram is a town located in the Rohtas district of Bihar. It is known for the tomb of Sher Shah Suri, a Mughal emperor. The tomb is a magnificent piece of Mughal architecture and is a popular destination for history lovers.

Valmiki National Park

Valmiki National Park is located in the West Champaran district of Bihar. It is home to various flora and fauna and is known for its dense forests, waterfalls, and rivers. The park is home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. Visitors can take a safari ride and explore the park's natural beauty.

Bodh Gaya

Bodh Gaya is a city located in the Gaya district of Bihar. It is one of the world's most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites and is believed to be where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. The city is home to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the temple and learn about the teachings of Buddha.

Rajgir

Rajgir is a city located in the Nalanda district of Bihar. It is known for its hot springs and ancient sites. The town was the Magadha Empire's capital and a major learning centre. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the old city and learn about its history.

Barabar Caves

Barabar Caves are a group of ancient rock-cut caves in the Jehanabad district of Bihar. The caves were carved out of granite and are believed to date back to the Mauryan Empire. The caves have intricate carvings and inscriptions depicting Buddha's life and teachings.

Bihar has much to offer tourists interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient universities and temples to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, there is something for everyone in Bihar. The state is a treasure trove of ancient sites and historical artefacts to be explored.