Bihar, located in eastern India, is a land of great historical significance. Once the heart of ancient Magadha Empire, it gave rise to Buddhism and Jainism, and was home to the legendary Nalanda University and Mauryan Empire. Today, Bihar combines sacred pilgrimage sites, heritage architecture, and rural charm.
Best Time to Visit
Season
Months
Highlights
Winter
October – March
Ideal for sightseeing and pilgrimage tours.
Summer
April – June
Hot and dry, avoid outdoor travel.
Monsoon
July – September
Lush greenery, but travel can be difficult.
Top Places to Visit
Bodh Gaya
About: The most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
Must-See: Mahabodhi Temple (UNESCO site), Bodhi Tree, Great Buddha Statue, Tibetan Monastery, Japanese Temple.
Experience: Meditation, spiritual walks, and peaceful monasteries from different countries.
Nalanda
About: Ancient seat of learning (5th–12th century CE), one of the world’s first residential universities.
Highlights: Nalanda University Ruins (UNESCO site), Archaeological Museum, Xuanzang Memorial Hall.
Nearby: Rajgir hot springs and ropeway.
Rajgir
About: A historical and spiritual town surrounded by hills. Associated with Buddha and Mahavira.
Top Attractions: Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Gridhakuta Hill (Buddha’s sermons), Ajatshatru Fort, Japanese Peace Pagoda, ropeway ride.
Experience: Blend of nature, spirituality, and ancient ruins.
Vaishali
About: Birthplace of Lord Mahavira (Jainism) and a key Buddhist site.
Highlights: Ashokan Pillar, Buddha Stupa I & II, Vaishali Museum, Kolhua archaeological site.
Spiritual Significance: Buddha preached his last sermon here.
Patna – The Capital
About: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Attractions: Golghar, Patna Museum, Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib (Sikh shrine), Agam Kuan, Gandhi Maidan, Eco Park.
Experience: A vibrant mix of history, faith, and modern urban life.
Sasaram
About: The birthplace of Sher Shah Suri, founder of the Suri Empire.
Must-See: Sher Shah Suri Tomb (architectural marvel in Indo-Afghan style), Rohtasgarh Fort.
Kakolat Waterfall
Location: Nawada district.
About: Scenic waterfall surrounded by lush forest; great picnic spot.
Mythology: Believed to have ties to the Mahabharata.
Sitamarhi
About: Birthplace of Goddess Sita (as per the Ramayana).
Attractions: Sita Kund, Janaki Temple, Punaura Dham.
Valmiki National Park
Location: West Champaran district.
About: Bihar’s only tiger reserve, rich in biodiversity — home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and Himalayan black bears.
Best Time: November to March.
Things to Do
Spiritual Tours: Visit Buddhist and Jain circuits (Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, Rajgir, Vaishali, Pawapuri).
Wildlife: Safari in Valmiki Tiger Reserve.
Heritage Walks: Explore ancient ruins and forts.
Festivals: Join Chhath Puja or Sonepur Cattle Fair for a local cultural experience.
Major Festivals
Festival
When
Significance
Chhath Puja
October–November
Sun worship festival celebrated on river ghats.
Sonepur Mela
November–December
One of Asia’s largest cattle fairs.
Pitrapaksha Mela (Gaya)
September
For ancestral offerings (Pind Daan).
Rajgir Mahotsav
December
Showcases music, dance, and local crafts.
Cuisine of Bihar
Famous Dishes: Litti Chokha, Sattu Paratha, Thekua, Khaja, Dal Pitha, Kadhi Bari, Ghugni.
Desserts: Anarsa, Balushahi, Khaja, Laung-Latika.
Drinks: Sattu drink (cooling and healthy).
Shopping
Where: Patna, Bodh Gaya, Nalanda.
What to Buy: Madhubani paintings, handloom fabrics, bamboo crafts, stone carvings, and brassware.
How to Reach
By Air:
Patna Airport (Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport) – main entry point.
Gaya International Airport – connects to Buddhist countries like Thailand and Sri Lanka.
By Train: Extensive rail network via Patna Junction, Gaya, Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur.
By Road: Well-connected by NH-19, NH-22, and NH-31.
Where to Stay
Luxury: Lemon Tree Premier (Patna), Hotel Taj Darbar (Bodh Gaya), Indo Hokke Hotel (Rajgir).
Mid-range: Hotel Maurya, Bodhgaya Regency, Nalanda Guest House.
Budget: Tourist lodges, monasteries (Bodh Gaya), and homestays.
Travel Tips
Dress modestly while visiting religious sites.
Respect local customs, especially during festivals like Chhath Puja.
Carry cash, as remote areas may have limited ATMs.
Avoid monsoon for long road trips due to floods or waterlogging.
