Bihar State Map With District Name
If you’re looking for a destination that offers a mix of history, culture, adventure, and natural wonders, Bihar is the perfect place to visit. Located in the eastern part of India, Bihar is a state that boasts of a rich cultural heritage, ancient ruins, and scenic landscapes. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Bihar has to offer.
Top Attractions
Bihar has several attractions that are worth visiting. The most popular among them are:
- Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya
- Nalanda University Ruins
- Vishwa Shanti Stupa in Rajgir
- Takht Sri Patna Sahib in Patna
- Barabar Caves in Jehanabad
Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya
The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. It is believed that this is the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple complex is surrounded by a beautiful garden and several other temples and monasteries.
Nalanda University Ruins
Nalanda University was one of the oldest universities in the world and a major center of learning in ancient India. The ruins of the university are spread over a large area and include several temples, monasteries, and lecture halls. The site is a testament to the rich intellectual and cultural heritage of ancient India.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Bihar has several hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. Some of the lesser-known attractions in Bihar are:
- Kakolat Waterfall
- Lauriya Nandangarh
- Kesaria Stupa
- Rajgir Hot Springs
- Chhath Puja in Patna
Kakolat Waterfall
Kakolat Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall located in the Nawada district of Bihar. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular picnic spot among locals. The best time to visit the waterfall is during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak.
Lauriya Nandangarh
Lauriya Nandangarh is an archaeological site located in the Bettiah district of Bihar. The site is famous for its Ashoka Pillar, which is one of the best-preserved pillars of Emperor Ashoka. The site also has several other pillars, stupas, and monasteries that date back to the Mauryan period.
Food Scene
Bihar has a rich culinary heritage and is known for its delicious street food, sweets, and traditional dishes. Some of the must-try dishes in Bihar are:
- Litti Chokha
- Sattu Paratha
- Dal Pitha
- Khaja
- Tilkut
Litti Chokha
Litti Chokha is a traditional dish from Bihar that is made with roasted wheat balls (litti) stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour) and served with mashed potato, tomato, and eggplant (chokha). This dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Bihar.
Sattu Paratha
Sattu Paratha is a popular breakfast dish in Bihar that is made with wheat flour and stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour) and spices. This dish is served with a side of pickle, yogurt, and chutney.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, Bihar has several options that won’t burn a hole in your pocket. Here are some budget-friendly tips:
- Stay in budget hotels or guesthouses
- Eat at local restaurants and street food stalls
- Use public transport
- Visit free attractions and museums
- Shop at local markets
Stay in budget hotels or guesthouses
Bihar has several budget hotels and guesthouses that offer comfortable accommodation at affordable prices. Some of the popular budget hotels in Bihar are Hotel Buddha Inn in Bodh Gaya, Hotel Chanakya in Patna, and Hotel Siddharth in Rajgir.
Eat at local restaurants and street food stalls
The best way to experience the local cuisine in Bihar is by eating at local restaurants and street food stalls. Not only is the food delicious, but it’s also very affordable. Some of the popular street food stalls in Bihar are Chirag Sweets in Patna, Sattu Ki Litti in Gaya, and Kachori Gali in Bhagalpur.
Outdoor Adventures
Bihar has several outdoor adventures that are perfect for thrill-seekers. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures in Bihar:
- Trekking in Rajgir Hills
- White water rafting in the Kosi River
- Cycling in Bodh Gaya
- Paragliding in Rajgir
- Rock climbing in Gaya
Trekking in Rajgir Hills
Rajgir Hills are a popular trekking destination in Bihar. The hills offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and are home to several temples and monasteries. The best time to go trekking in Rajgir Hills is during the winter season when the weather is pleasant.
White water rafting in the Kosi River
The Kosi River is one of the best places for white water rafting in Bihar. The river offers several rapids of varying levels of difficulty and is a popular spot among adventure enthusiasts.
Historical Landmarks
Bihar has a rich history and is home to several historical landmarks that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular historical landmarks in Bihar are:
- Patna Museum
- Mahavir Mandir in Patna
- Gandhi Setu in Patna
- Buxar Fort
- Sher Shah Suri Tomb in Sasaram
Patna Museum
Patna Museum is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. The museum has a collection of more than 50,000 artifacts that date back to the ancient and medieval period. The museum also has a collection of paintings, sculptures, and coins.
Mahavir Mandir in Patna
Mahavir Mandir is a popular temple in Patna that is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple attracts thousands of devotees every day and is known for its beautiful architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with your family, Bihar has several family-friendly activities that everyone will enjoy. Here are some of the best family-friendly activities in Bihar:
- Patna Planetarium
- Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park in Patna
- Indira Gandhi Planetarium in Patna
- Mangal Talab in Bhagalpur
- Chandradhari Museum in Darbhanga
Patna Planetarium
Patna Planetarium is a popular attraction among families. The planetarium offers several shows on astronomy and space and is a great place to learn about the universe.
Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park in Patna
The Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park is a zoo and botanical garden located in Patna. The park is home to several species of animals, birds, and plants and is a great place to spend a day with your family.
Natural Wonders
Bihar has several natural wonders that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best natural wonders in Bihar:
- Golghar in Patna
- Mahatma Gandhi Setu in Patna
- Rajgir Hot Springs
- Valmiki National Park
- Kakolat Waterfall
Golghar in Patna