Bihar

Tourism in Bihar

Bihar, located in the eastern part of India, is a state with a rich historical and cultural heritage. It offers a wide range of tourist attractions, including ancient sites, religious pilgrimage centers, natural landscapes, and vibrant festivals. Here’s an overview of Bihar tourism:

Historical Sites

Bihar is home to several ancient historical sites, including Nalanda University, a renowned center of learning in ancient times. The ruins of this ancient university attract tourists interested in exploring its architectural remains. Other historical sites include Rajgir, known for its association with Lord Buddha, and Pawapuri, the place where Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, attained nirvana.

Religious Tourism

Bihar is a significant destination for religious tourism. The state houses Bodh Gaya, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. It is where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a major attraction for pilgrims and tourists alike. Other religious sites include the Vaishali Stupa, Kesaria Stupa, and Patna Sahib Gurudwara.

Natural Beauty

Bihar is blessed with scenic beauty and natural landscapes. The state is crisscrossed by rivers like Ganga, Son, and Kosi, offering picturesque views and opportunities for river cruises. Valmiki National Park, located in the West Champaran district, is a popular wildlife sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity. The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary is another notable attraction, where visitors can spot the endangered Gangetic dolphins.

Festivals

Bihar celebrates various festivals with great enthusiasm, offering a glimpse into its vibrant culture. The Chhath Puja, dedicated to the Sun God, is one of the most significant festivals in the state. It involves elaborate rituals and worship of the sun during sunrise and sunset. Other popular festivals include the Sonepur Cattle Fair, Makar Sankranti, and Bihula-Bishari Puja.

Cuisine

Bihar has a unique culinary tradition known as “Bihari cuisine.” It is famous for dishes like litti chokha (roasted wheat balls with a spicy mix of mashed potatoes and brinjal), sattu (roasted gram flour), and various sweets like khaja and malpua. Exploring the local cuisine is a delightful experience for food enthusiasts.

To promote tourism, the Bihar government has undertaken initiatives to improve infrastructure, develop tourist circuits, and promote cultural festivals. It aims to showcase the state’s rich heritage and attract more visitors to explore Bihar’s historical, cultural, and natural treasures.

Things to do in Bihar

Here are some things you can do in Bihar:

Visit Bodh Gaya

Bodh Gaya is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists around the world. It is where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The Mahabodhi Temple and the Bodhi Tree are major attractions in this spiritual town.

Explore Nalanda University Ruins

Nalanda was once a renowned center of learning in ancient India. The ruins of Nalanda University are now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the archaeological remains, visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum, and learn about the rich intellectual history of the region.

Discover Rajgir

Rajgir is an ancient city with historical and religious significance. Visit the Griddhakuta Hill (Vulture’s Peak), where Buddha preached, and the Ajatshatru Fort, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The hot springs of Rajgir are also popular for their medicinal properties.

Experience the Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is a significant festival celebrated in Bihar, dedicated to the Sun God. Witness this colorful festival and experience the devotion and rituals associated with it. It usually takes place in October or November.

Take a boat ride on the Ganges

The Ganges River, also known as the Ganga, flows through Bihar, offering scenic beauty and a chance to experience the spiritual essence of the region. Take a boat ride along the river to witness the ghats (riverfront steps) and the rituals performed by devotees.

Visit Patna Museum

Located in the capital city of Bihar, Patna Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including archaeological finds, paintings, sculptures, and relics from different periods of Bihar’s history. It is a great place to learn about the state’s rich cultural heritage.

Explore Vaishali

Vaishali is an important historical and archaeological site associated with Lord Buddha. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism. Visit the Ashokan Pillar, the Buddha Stupa, and other ancient ruins in this ancient city.

Discover Kesaria Stupa

Kesaria Stupa is one of the tallest and largest Buddhist stupas in the world. It is located near the town of Kesaria and dates back to the 3rd century BCE. Explore the stupa and learn about its historical and architectural significance.

Attend the Sonepur Cattle Fair

Sonepur Mela, also known as the Sonepur Cattle Fair, is one of the largest and oldest cattle fairs in Asia. Held in the town of Sonepur, it attracts traders, farmers, and visitors from various parts of India. Experience the vibrant atmosphere, buy and sell animals, and witness cultural performances.

Taste Bihari Cuisine

Bihar offers a diverse range of delicious traditional dishes. Don’t miss out on trying specialties like litti-chokha (roasted wheat balls with mashed potatoes and spices), sattu (roasted gram flour), khaja (a sweet delicacy), and the famous Bihari thali, which includes a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

These are just a few highlights of what Bihar has to offer. The state is also home to other attractions like the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, Patna Sahib Gurudwara, and numerous historical sites. Exploring Bihar will provide you with insights into its rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions.