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Best Places to Visit in Bihar – Top Tourist Attractions & Travel Guide

March 5, 2025 Views

Best Places to Visit in Bihar

Bihar, a land steeped in history, spirituality, and culture, offers a plethora of tourist destinations. From ancient Buddhist sites to vibrant cities, Bihar has something for every traveler. Here are some of the best places to visit in Bihar:

1. Bodh Gaya

Rating: 4.6/5
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Bodh Gaya is one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites, known for the Mahabodhi Temple where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Other attractions include the Great Buddha Statue and the Tibetan Refugee Market.

2. Patna

Rating: 4.3/5
Best Time to Visit: October to March
The capital city of Bihar, Patna, is rich in history and culture. It is home to attractions like Gandhi Ghat, Patna Sahib Gurudwara, and Srikrishna Science Centre. The city boasts a mix of modernity and heritage.

3. Nalanda

Rating: 4.2/5
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Nalanda, an ancient center of learning, is famous for the ruins of Nalanda University, Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall, and the Great Stupa. It remains an important site for history and spirituality enthusiasts.

4. Vaishali

Rating: 4.4/5
Best Time to Visit: October to January
Vaishali is a revered site for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. It is known for the Ashoka Pillar, Vishwa Shanti Stupa, and Buddha's Stupa. The city is considered the first republic in the world.

5. Rajgir

Rating: 4.8/5
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Rajgir is a beautiful town with historical significance. It is associated with both Buddhism and Jainism. Key attractions include Venuvana, Japanese Stupa, and Vulture's Peak.

6. Madhubani

Rating: 4.1/5
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Famous for Madhubani paintings, this ancient city is an art and cultural hub. Tourists can visit Kapileshwar Sthan, Saurath, and Nagar Fort.

7. Sitamarhi

Rating: 4.8/5
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Sitamarhi is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita. The Punaura Dham temple marks this historic event.

8. Valmiki National Park

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Located on the Indo-Nepal border, this wildlife sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, offering nature lovers an enriching experience.

9. Bhagalpur

Rating: 4.2/5
Best Time to Visit: November to Mid-March
Known as the Silk City, Bhagalpur is famous for Vikramshila, the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, and Mandar Parvat.

10. Pawapuri

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
A holy site for Jains, Pawapuri is where Lord Mahavira attained nirvana. It is home to the sacred Jal Mandir.

11. Hajipur

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Hajipur holds historical significance and is known for its link with Lord Buddha and Islamic and British rule.

12. Muzaffarpur

Rating: 4.4/5
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Famous as the "Litchi Kingdom," Muzaffarpur is known for its beautiful gardens, Garib Sthan Mandir, and Jubba Sahni Park.

13. Lauriya Nandangarh

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Famous for its Ashokan Pillar and ancient ruins, Lauriya Nandangarh is a must-visit for history lovers.

14. Chhath Puja

An important festival dedicated to the Sun God, celebrated with great fervor across Bihar.

15. Tomb of Sher Shah Suri

Located in Sasaram, this mausoleum showcases stunning Indo-Islamic architecture.

16. Navlakha Palace

Situated in Rajnagar, this ancient royal palace is a popular heritage attraction.

17. Jal Mandir

Located in Pawapuri, this Jain temple is a sacred pilgrimage site.

18. Mundeshwari Temple

Considered one of the oldest temples in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

FAQs on Bihar

What are some challenges of visiting Bihar?

Bihar is a vibrant state with a rich cultural heritage, but travelers may face some challenges. Certain areas can be densely populated, leading to crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. Additionally, while major cities are well-developed, some rural regions may lack proper tourist infrastructure. Travelers should also exercise caution and stay aware of their surroundings, as petty crime can occur in busy areas.

How much does a travel package for Bihar cost?

The cost of a Bihar travel package varies based on factors like the number of travelers, duration of stay, hotel category, and transportation options. Packages typically start at around ₹7,250 and can be customized to fit your preferences. Whether you want a budget-friendly trip or a luxury experience, there are options available to suit every traveler.

What are the must-visit places in Bihar?

Bihar is home to several historical and cultural landmarks. Some of the top places to explore include:

Bodh Gaya – The sacred site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment
Patna – The state capital with historical museums and landmarks
Nalanda – Home to the ancient Nalanda University ruins
Vaishali – An important Buddhist and Jain pilgrimage site
Madhubani – Famous for its unique Mithila paintings
Muzaffarpur – Known for its delicious Shahi litchis

Who should visit Bihar?

Bihar is ideal for a wide range of travelers:

History and culture enthusiasts – Explore ancient ruins, temples, and UNESCO heritage sites.
Spiritual seekers – Visit key religious sites related to Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism, and Islam.
Nature lovers – Discover wildlife sanctuaries like Valmiki National Park.
Rural explorers – Experience the charm of Bihar’s villages and traditional lifestyle.

What is the best time to visit Bihar?

Bihar experiences hot summers, making outdoor travel challenging. The best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. However, since this is the peak season, it's recommended to book accommodations and travel plans in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

What are the must-try foods in Bihar?

Bihar’s cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition and is loved across India and beyond. Some iconic dishes you must try include:

Litti Chokha – Roasted wheat balls stuffed with sattu, served with mashed vegetables
Sattu Paratha – A nutritious paratha stuffed with roasted gram flour
Malpua – A sweet pancake-like delicacy, often enjoyed during festivals
Thekua – A crunchy sweet snack popular in Bihar
Mutton Curry – A flavorful dish made with traditional Bihari spices
Sattu Drink – A refreshing and healthy drink made from roasted gram flour
Gol Gappa (Pani Puri) – A popular street snack filled with tangy flavored water

From traditional sweets to hearty meals, Bihar offers a diverse culinary experience that food lovers will cherish.

Conclusion

Bihar is a treasure trove of history, spirituality, and culture. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, Bihar has something to offer. Plan your trip and explore the rich heritage of this incredible state.