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Bihār

Bihar, Bihar, India

Journey to the Heart of Ancient India: Discover Bihar Step back in time and immerse yourself in the cradle of Indian civilization – Bihar. This captivating state, nestled in eastern India, resonates with the echoes of an…

#Historic sites#Spiritual centers#Cultural heritage#Rural landscapes#Traditional cuisine

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Bihār.

Top Hotels in Bihār

Top Flights to Bihār

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Bihār.

Tours

Explore the Ruins of Nalanda

Visit the ancient Nalanda University, one of the world's oldest and finest residential universities.

Spiritual Journey to Bodh Gaya

Visit the site where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.

Visit Vaishali

Explore the ancient city of Vaishali, a significant archaeological and historical site.

Visit the Vikramshila Ruins

Explore the remains of Vikramshila University, an important center of learning in ancient India.

Shopping

Patna Market Shopping Spree

Explore and shop in the vibrant markets of Patna, offering local handicrafts and textiles.

Shopping at Maurya Lok Complex

Visit one of Patna's oldest shopping complexes for a wide range of products.

Outdoor

A Day at Rajgir Hot Springs

Experience the therapeutic benefits of the Rajgir Hot Springs, nestled in the verdant valley.

Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary Safari

Embark on an adventurous jeep safari through Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary.

Trekking at Rajgir Hills

Enjoy trekking in the scenic Rajgir Hills and witness panoramic views.

Boating in Ganges at Patna

Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges River while taking in the natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Bihār.

Currency
₹ | INR | Indian Rupee
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Bihar, India, is 128.7 million.
Languages
Hindi, Urdu, Maithili
Average weather
Bihār
Jan
clear
22°9°
Feb
clear
25°11°
Mar
sun
31°16°
Apr
hot
37°22°
May
hot
39°25°
Jun
rain
36°27°
Jul
rain
33°26°
Aug
rain
32°26°
Sep
rain
32°25°
Oct
cloud
31°21°
Nov
clear
27°15°
Dec
clear
23°10°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Bihār.

What people love

Bihar, located in eastern India, has a rich cultural and historical heritage that makes it a fascinating destination for travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Bihar:

  1. Historical Sites: Bihar is home to several important historical sites such as Nalanda, the ancient center of learning; Bodh Gaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment; and Vikramshila, another ancient university. These sites offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and heritage.

  2. Religious Sites: Bihar is a significant destination for religious pilgrimages. Apart from Bodh Gaya, which is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world, Bihar also houses other important religious sites like Vaishali, Rajgir, and Pawapuri.

  3. Cultural Diversity: Bihar is known for its vibrant culture, folk traditions, music, and dance forms. Traveling to Bihar provides an opportunity to experience the unique cultural diversity of the region and interact with its warm and hospitable people.

  4. Natural Beauty: Bihar is blessed with natural beauty, including lush green landscapes, rivers, and wildlife sanctuaries. Places like Rajgir, Bodh Gaya, and the Rajgir hills offer scenic views and opportunities for nature lovers to explore.

  5. Authentic Cuisine: Bihar's cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Traditional Bihari dishes like litti chokha, sattu paratha, and thekua offer a unique culinary experience for travelers looking to explore the local food scene.

Overall, traveling to Bihar can be a rewarding experience for those interested in history, culture, spirituality, and nature. It offers a chance to explore lesser-known gems and immerse oneself in the rich tapestry of Bihar's heritage.

Please note that travel information may change, so it's always a good idea to check for the latest updates before planning your trip.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Bihar, India, may include:

  1. Safety concerns: Bihar has faced security challenges in the past, including incidents of crime and political unrest. Travelers should exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and during political events.

  2. Sanitation and hygiene issues: Bihar faces challenges in terms of sanitation and hygiene, which can impact the overall cleanliness and health standards for travelers. It is important to take necessary precautions to avoid food and waterborne illnesses.

  3. Limited tourist infrastructure: Bihar may not have as developed tourist infrastructure compared to other popular tourist destinations in India. This could result in challenges related to transportation, accommodation, and access to amenities.

  4. Extreme weather conditions: Bihar experiences hot summers and cold winters, which can be uncomfortable for some travelers. It is important to plan your trip accordingly and pack appropriate clothing.

  5. Language barrier: The primary language spoken in Bihar is Bihari, which may pose a challenge for travelers who do not speak the local language. It is advisable to learn some basic phrases or have a translation tool handy.

Please note that these are general considerations and may not apply to every traveler's experience. It is recommended to stay informed about the current situation in Bihar and take necessary precautions before traveling.

Bihar, located in eastern India, is a state with a rich historical and cultural heritage, dating back to ancient times. Here is a detailed history of Bihar:

Ancient Period:

  • Vedic Period: Bihar was a central region during the Vedic age, known as "Magadha." The early Aryans settled here, and it became an important center for the development of Hinduism.
  • Mauryan Empire: Bihar was the heartland of the Mauryan Empire (322–185 BCE), one of the first and largest empires in India, founded by Chandragupta Maurya. His grandson, Emperor Ashoka, became one of India's greatest emperors, known for his role in spreading Buddhism after the Kalinga War.
  • Buddhism and Jainism: Bihar is the birthplace of Buddhism and Jainism. Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, a significant religious site. Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, was also born here.

Medieval Period:

  • Gupta Empire: The Gupta Empire (approx. 320-550 CE), often referred to as the Golden Age of India, had its origins in Bihar. It was a time of great cultural and scientific advancements.
  • Pala Dynasty: The Palas ruled Bihar and Bengal from the 8th to the 12th century and were patrons of Buddhism. The famous Nalanda University, an ancient center of learning, flourished during this period.

Islamic Period:

  • Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire: Bihar came under the control of the Delhi Sultanate in the 12th century and later the Mughal Empire. During the Mughal period, Bihar was known for its rich agricultural output and strategic importance.

Colonial Period:

  • British Rule: Bihar became part of the Bengal Presidency under British rule. The region played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement, with leaders like Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Jayaprakash Narayan, and others emerging from Bihar.

Post-Independence:

  • Bihar as a State: In 1950, after India's independence, Bihar became a state of the Indian Union. The state has faced challenges, including political instability and economic issues, but remains culturally significant.

Significant Historical Figures:

  • Gautama Buddha: Founder of Buddhism, attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya.
  • Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka: Key figures of the Mauryan Empire.
  • Vikramashila and Nalanda: Ancient centers of learning that attracted students from around the world.

Important Landmarks:

  • Bodh Gaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mahabodhi Temple complex is where Buddha attained enlightenment.
  • Nalanda University: Ruins of this ancient university are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Rajgir and Vaishali: Important historical and religious sites associated with Buddhism and Jainism.

Bihar's history is marked by its contribution to Indian culture, religion, and education. Despite challenges, the state continues to be a vital part of India's heritage.