Places to Visit in Bihar

Lying on the left side of the famous Mahabodhi Temple, the Bodhi Tree is considered to be a Central Symbol In Buddhism. Also known as the Bo tree, the Bodhi tree is the sacred tree under which Lord Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Before attaining enlightenment, Buddha meditated under this tree for more than a month.

The Bodhi Tree present here today is believed to be the fifth succession of the original tree. The tree is encircled by intricately carved votive stupas, a number of Buddha statues, and chaityas. On your visit to this place, you can find many Buddhist monks sitting under the Bodhi tree, meditating or reading.

Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM

Location: The Bodhi Tree lies to the left of the Mahabodhi Tree. The sacred Bodhi tree is located within the premises of the temple and is a part of the temple complex.

Historical Facts:
- The current Bodhi Tree stands at the same site where the original Bodhi tree, under which Buddha attained nirvana, once stood.
- Sidhartha meditated under the holy Fig tree for more than a month before finally attaining moksha.
- December 8 marks the enlightenment of Buddha under the Bodhi tree and is celebrated annually across the globe as Bodhi Day.

Facts:
- As per popular beliefs, Sanghamitra, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka carried a branch of the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya to Sri Lanka and planted the same in Anuradhapura city.
- That Bodhi Tree in Sri Lanka is still alive and is considered to be the oldest documented tree on the earth.
- The present Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya has grown from a sapling carried here from the Bodhi tree in Sri Lanka.

The Takht Sri Patna Sahib is a gorgeous, sprawling gurudwara, built on the banks of the Ganges in honour of Shri Guru Gobind Singh. The gurdwara was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Ranjit Singh as a symbol of respect and devotion to his guru. This majestic shrine with its striking white façade is one of the holiest and most sacred places to visit in Bihar.

It is built in typical Sikh style, with intricate architecture, lots of open spaces, laced windows and arches and much more. Of the five takhts of Sikhism, The Takht Sri Patna Sahib is believed to be the second Takht. The Prakash Parv festival is celebrated with fervour every year and is attended by devotees from all over the country.

Location: Takhat Sri Harmandir ji, Patna Sahib, Patna, Bihar 800008

Timings: Monday to Sunday (5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.)

Historical Facts:
- The gurdwara was constructed by Maharaja Ranjit Singh
- The purpose of the Gurudwara was to commemorate the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh
- Guru Gobind Singh was the Tenth Sikh Guru, born in December 1666.
- The construction of the gurdwara was completed in the 18th century
- The gurdwara is also known as Harmandir Sahib
- Thousands of Sikhs visit the place every year to pay their respects
- The Gurudwara is built on the banks of the Ganges
- It is made entirely out of white stone, and its striking white façade makes it a beautiful architectural marvel as well
- The Prakash Parv festival is celebrated with great ceremony at the gurudwara every year

The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya is perhaps the most important Buddhist temple in the world. It is built on the exact spot where it is believed that Gautama meditated and attained moksha and became the Buddha. The magnificent temple has been constructed to honour this moment in history, while keeping a Bodhi tree under which the Buddha sat, intact beside the temple.

The Mahabodhi Temple is 55 metres high and is built over an area of 4.8 hectares. The original version of this temple was built by King Ashoka, which has since been replaced with a bigger, more intricate structure. You can see a beautiful golden statue of the Buddha inside, made entirely of black stone.

Location: Bodh Gaya, Bihar 824231

Timings: Monday to Sunday (5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.)

Historical Facts:
- There is a sacred Bodhi tree onsite, which is a descendent of the same tree under which the Buddha sat and attained enlightenment
- The Mahabodhi Tree has been an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus for over 2,000 years
- The original temple was built by King Ashoka in 260 BCE
- Today, the temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Architecture:
- The oldest elements of the Mahabodhi Temple made by King Ashoka can now be seen in a museum
- There is an intricately carved stone railing that surrounds the temple complex
- The temple is constructed out of bricks that are covered with stucco
- The temple is 55 metres high and occupies an area of 4.8 hectares

One of the most exciting architectural marvels coming up in Bihar is the Glass-Floor Bridge, a massive skywalk whose specialty is its transparent floor. The bridge is supposed to be around 85 feet in length and 6 feet wide. The bridge is being constructed in the midst of five picturesque hills in the Rajgir area of Bihar.

Up to 40 tourists can be accommodated on the bridge at the same time, who can observe the surrounding natural beauty through the clear glass floor and the surrounding open spaces on the bridge. Once the bridge is open to the public, you can also enjoy other activities such as ziplining, nature park safaris, picnics, and much more in the surroundings of the bridge.

Location: Rajgir, Nalanda District, Bihar 803116, located at a distance of 95 km from Patna

Importance: The Glass Floor Bridge is only the second bridge of its kind in India, the other one being the famous Lakshman Jhula in Rishikesh. Several other attractions including a ropeway, nature safaris, glass cabins, nature reserves, adventure activities, and parks are also going to be on offer

Architecture:

- The length of the Glass Floor Bridge is set to be around 85 feet, and 6 feet in width.

- The bridge is being built at a height of 400 feet above the ground and can accommodate up to 40 people at a time.

- It is being built by the Bihar Government, in a bid to promote tourism in the state.

- The bridge is surrounded by 5 towering hills in Rajgir.

Historical Facts: The Golghar was intended to be one of the first “stores” for grain storage Ordered by Warren Hastings in 1784, the beehive-shaped structure was designed by Captain John Garstin of the Bengal Engineers and was fully constructed on 20th of July 1786.Architecture:

As its name suggests, the majestic Vishnupad Temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Vishnu and houses a 40 cm long footprint of the Lord, which is sheltered by a silver plated basin. This footprint signifies the act of the Lord subduing Gayasur into the surface of the earth by placing his feet on his chest.

Inside the Vishnu Temple, you can also find several other shrines, dedicated to Lord Phalgwisvara and Lord Narasimha. Built back in 1787, Vishnupad Temple is one of the most important places of worship for the Hindus in Gaya and one of the many famous places to visit in Bihar.

Timings: 6.30 AM to 7.30 PM

Location: Vishnupad Temple is located on the banks of the Phalgu river in Gaya, Bihar.

Historical Facts:
- The Vishnupad Temple has a footprint of Lord Vishnu incised into a basalt block and known as Dharmasila.
- The date of the original construction of the temple is not yet known. According to popular mythological beliefs Lord Rama had visited this place with Mata Sita.
- The present shrine was remodelled in 1787 by the ruler of Indore, Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar.
- For the construction of the temple, Ahilya Bai Holkar had sent her officers to fetch the best stone of the region and they returned with Munger Black Stone.
- As there wasn’t any good road and the mountains were located far away from Gaya, the officers of Ahilya Bai Holkar found another mountain near the village of Bathani to carve and easily get the stones to Gaya.
- Highly skilled craftsmen were brought from Rajasthan to build the Vishnupad Temple, keeping the footprint of Lord Vishnu in the centre.

Architecture:
- The 30 meters high Vishnupad Temple features 8 rows of carved pillars that support the pavilion.
- This east-facing octagonal temple is made of huge blocks of grey granite attached together by iron clamps.
- The 100 meters tall pyramidal tower features sloping sides with alternately plain and indented sections that are set in such a way that they make for an array of peaks joined at the top.

Located in Pawapuri, the Jalmandir is dedicated to Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, and is a very important pilgrimage destination for the Jains. This place is the same site where Lord Mahavira was cremated after he attained moksha in 527 BC.

Standing true to its name, Jal Mandir is completely surrounded by water on all four sides and is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Bihar. The temple is built in the form of a chariot with white marbles and has a footprint of Lord Mahavira. The temple is connected to the bank by a long bridge, through which it can be accessed.

Timings: 6 AM to 12 PM & 3 PM to 9 PM

Location: Pawapuri.JAL.mandir, more, rod, Pavapuri, Bihar 803115

Historical Facts:
- Jal Mandir was constructed originally by the elder brother of Lord Mahavira, King Nandivardhan amidst the pond filled with Lotus flowers.
- Jal Mandir is one of the 5 temples in Pawapuri, where the footprint of Lord Mahavira is deified.
- Lord Mahavira was originally a prince of the Magadha Kingdom, which was then known as “Pawapuri” or “Madhyama Pawa”. At the age of 30, he became an ascetic.
- During Chaturmas and between the months of Āṣārh (22 June To 22 July) and Kartik (October/November), the Jain nuns and monks stay at one sacred place and preach the teachings of the religion to the local people.

Architecture:
- Translating to "Temple In Water" in English, Jal Mandir is made of white marble and set within a water tank, which measures around 84 Bigha.
- The water surrounding the temple is covered with beautiful lotuses with the chariot-shaped temple sitting in the middle. The water is home to many fish that are fed by the devotees and priests of the temple.
- The temple is connected to the bank of the water tank by a 600 feet long stone bridge.
- During moonlit nights, Jal Mandir shines brightly offering a breathtaking sight to behold.

Established back in 1957 by the combined effort of Buddhist monks and the government of Thailand, the magnificent Thai Monastery aims at preaching the philosophies of Buddhism. The architecture of the monastery and the customs and rituals practiced here offer a deep insight of the rich Thai culture.

The temple flaunts a curved sloping roof adorned with stunning golden tiles. The Thai Monastery is also home to a 25 meters tall intricately carved bronze statue of Lord Buddha, which rests in the garden of the temple. You can also see many carved images of Lord Buddha, Buddhist objects, and Buddhist symbols displayed inside the monastery.

Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM

Location: Near Buddha Statue, Bodh Gaya, India

How old: The Thai Monastery was constructed in the year 1957 by the government of Thailand and the Indian Buddhist monks to propagate Buddhist philosophies.

Facts:
- The Thai Monastery showcases the rich colours of the Thai tradition and culture with its stunning architecture and important customs and rituals.
- The monks and residents of the monastery also play a key role in propagating the ideologies of Lord Buddha among the masses.

Architecture:
- The Thai Monastery features sloping curved roofs covered with beautiful golden tiles and has a beautiful exterior that should not be missed.
- The temple houses a magnificent carved bronze statue of Lord Buddha on its premises.
- The temple oozes out a serene and silent atmosphere, which makes it a must-visit religious destination in Bodh Gaya.
- Inside the temple, you can find a number of carved images depicting the life of Lord Buddha.
- Many significant Buddhist symbols and sacred Buddhist objects are showcased inside the monastic temples.

As its name suggests, Kesariya Stupa is a majestic Buddhist Stupa lying in Kesariya in the Champaran district of Bihar. Constructed under the commands of emperor Ashoka, Kesaria Stupa happens to be the biggest and tallest Buddhist stupa in the whole world.

The stupa is built at the same site, where Lord Buddha donated his begging bow during his last days. Adorned with a myriad of impressive Buddhist statues, this stupa is a brilliant epitome of traditional Buddist architecture. Certain parts of this stupa are in their ruins as a result of the invasion made by Muslim rulers in the times gone by.

Timings: 5 AM to 6 PM

Location: Kesariya Road, Tajpur Deur, Champaran District, Bihar 845424

How old: The initial construction of the Kesaria Stupa began in the 3rd century BCE.

Architecture: The gigantic Kesariya Stupa has a height of around 104 feet with a circumference of about 400 feet.

The Bihar Museum is a popular attraction in Patna that gives visitors an insight into Bihar's past while instilling pride and reverence in the hearts of  Young visitors. Further, this museum has been a  recent addition to the list of attractions. Meanwhile, the century-old Patna Museum ran out of space, and thus, this was one of the key reasons to build the museum and to display the artifacts. Hence, the Bihar Museum is where tourists should visit to find information about Bihar's past.

Historical Facts: 
-The children's museum', the main entrance area, and an orientation theatre were the only parts opened to the public in August 2015
-Various displays here are so old, that they date back to the fourth century.
-The Museum was fully opened in 2017.

Architecture:
-The Bihar Museum covers an area of 25000 sq. metres.
-The museum is a six storey building, where each floor has something different to offer.
-Its architecture consists of four exhibition galleries, a lobby, an administration gallery and a permanent gallery. 

Location: Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, Bailey Rd, Patna, Bihar 800001.

This fascinating museum in Patna dates back to 1917 when it was constructed. It is home to over 50,000 artefacts that brilliantly showcase the colourful, diverse and ancient history of Bihar and its surroundings. The museum building itself is a wonderful specimen of the Mughal and Rajput style of architecture.

One of the most exciting exhibits at the museum is the Holy Relic Casket which contains the ashes of the Buddha. There are also several terracotta sculptures, ancient paintings, coins and other relics that date back to as far as the Middle Ages. You can explore several galleries that display the remains found from nearby excavation sites. These remains are a testament to the rich and fascinating history of India and its olden residents.

Location: Buddh Marg Lodipur Patna Bihar-800001.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday (10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)

Historical Facts:
- The purpose of the museum was to house the many relics and artifacts that were being excavated in the vicinity of Patna by the British.
- The museum was constructed after the partition of Bihar and Bengal.
- It was created with the express purpose of helping the British conserve their resources and showcase their discoveries.
- The construction and curation of the museum was completed in 1982.
- It was the first museum of its kind in the Bihar and Orissa Province.
- It was inaugurated by the then Governor of Bihar and Orissa.

Items:
- Archaeological objects excavated from nearby sites
-Coins from ancient kingdoms
- Paintings and other works of art
- Ancient instruments
- Hand-woven and hand-painted textiles
- Thankas
- Bronze sculptures
- The ashes of the Buddha
- Terracotta figurines and structures

Cascading to the ground from a height of 160 feet, the Kakolat Waterfalls is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Bihar. It provides an excellent respite from the heat because the water of this waterfall remains cool and pleasant throughout the year.

Several tourists flock to the area for a relaxing swim in the pool below. The greenery surrounding the waterfall also provides ample shade for picnics and relaxing nature walks. The Kakolat Waterfall also has a spiritual significance, since it is believed that Lord Krishna used to frequent this place for baths. Hence, several devotees flock to this place for a holy dip in the pool as well.

Location: Kakolat, Nawada district, Bihar, India

Timings: Monday to Sunday (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)

Historical Facts:
- Legends says that during the Treta Yuga Epoch, a King was entrapped in Kakolat due to a curse
- The curse was put upon him by a Rishi, who forced him to take the shape of a snake
- The King only got Salvation when the Pandavas visited Kakolat during their exile
- After he was free of the curse, the King proclaimed that anyone who would bathe in the water of these falls, would be free from the Yoni of the snake
- This legend is the reason several Hindus flock to the falls to take a dip
- It is also believed that Lord Krishna used to bathe in these falls

Festival: 
- During Chaitra Sankranti or Baisakhi, a massive festival is held in Kakolat
- It was believed that Lord Krishna used to come to this place with his queens for a bath. 
- Devotees from all over the country visit this waterfall during the Baisakhi period

The Valmiki National Park, Tiger Reserve, and Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the largest stretch of grassland in the country.  The Park is located in the West Champaran District in Bihar that straddles the India-Nepal border in North-East India. The National Park is located on the banks of the picturesque River Gandak.

The Valmiki National Park is the only National Park in Bihar, but one of the most famous national parks in the country, home to a massive population of animals, birds, plants, and reptiles. You can discover 7 different types of landscapes in this National Park, including dense forests, swampland, rivers, valleys, and much more. It has thrived and existed since its establishment in 1990.

Location: Bettiah, Bihar 84510 

Area Covered: 880 sq. km

Present Wildlife found:
- The Valmiki National Park is home to one of the largest populations of tigers in the country.
- Some of the other animals that have found shelter in this park include deer, wild cats, monkeys, flying fox bats, one-horned rhinos, hyenas, clouded leopards, sambhars and much more.
- There are several watchtowers placed strategically throughout the natural reserve to let you observe these beautiful animals in their natural habitat.
- Another exciting way to interact with the thriving wildlife at the Valmiki National Park is by signing up for an open-air jeep safari.
- A guide can take you into the right areas to show you some of the most beautiful animals that have made the park their home.

These stunning historical caves are some of the oldest manmade relics in Bihar, dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Most caves at Barabar consist of two chambers, carved entirely out of granite, with a highly polished internal surface, the "Mauryan polish" also found on sculptures, and exciting echo effects. Barabar Caves consist of a group of four different caves namely, Lomas Rishi, Visvakarma, Karan Chaupar and Sudama.

It is believed that King Ashoka commissioned the construction of these caves when he was erecting monuments all over his kingdom to spread the knowledge of Buddhism. Today, you can explore the beautiful internal chambers, check out some ancient Hindu and Jain sculptures and marvel at the architectural genius that went behind constructing these caves.

Location: Barabar Hill Road, Barabar, Sultanpur, Bihar 804405

Timings: Monday to Sunday (6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.)

Historical Facts:
- These man-made caves are some of the most intriguing tourist attractions in Bihar.
- They were believed to have been commissioned by King Ashoka in the 3rd century AD.
- The Barabar caves are believed to be the last remaining relic from the Lost Ajivika Sect.
- The Ajivika Sect of people competed with the influence of Buddhism and Jainism in India in terms of religion and spirituality.
- Eventually, however, the Ajivika Sect died out by the 5th century AD.
- The Barabar Caves are the only remaining specimen of Ajivika history and culture.

The Kanwar Bird Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Bihar, home to the largest freshwater oxbow lake in all of Asia. The Park was established in 1987, to protect the local wildlife and ecosystems and covers an area of 63.11 sq. km. More than 100 species of migratory birds, as well as indigenous specimens, have made their home in this sprawling sanctuary.

Some of the most beautiful birds that you can spot here include the Purple Rumped Sunbird, the Red Wattled Lapwing, the Crested Serpent Eagle, the Spotted Owlet, Magpie Robins, sparrows, kites, vultures and much more. You can also find several small animals like squirrels, foxes, langurs and more on the premises of the park. It is the most ideal place for nature-lovers, birdwatchers and avid photographers.

Location: Kanwar Taal, 22 km Northwest of Begusarai district, Bihar 848202, India

Timings: Monday to Sunday (7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.)

Area Covered: 67.5 sq. km

Discovered Wildlife:
- The Sanctuary provides shelter to more than 59 species of migratory birds
- There are 106 species of residential birds here as well
- The lake contains 31 different species of fish
- Some of the animals found here include jackals, rhesus, bats, squirrels, langurs and Indian foxes.
- Migratory birds in the region include the bar-headed goose, grey heron, common Pochard, Cattle Egret Water Cocks, crested crabs, green and sandpipers, the Brahminy Duck, falcons, snips, coots and much more.

This one-of-a-kind sanctuary was established in 1991 with the aim of protecting the endangered Gangetic dolphins. The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary is spread over 50-60 km in the middle of the Ganges, with its borders ranging from Sultanganj to Kahalgaon Hill.

Apart from dolphins, the sanctuary also works to protect other endangered species including flap shell turtles, tent turtles, catfish, anchovies, the roofed turtles, croakers and much more. These are among a total of 135 species that are protected by the sanctuary. You can catch sight of the beautiful dolphins and other fishes and animals when you visit this remarkable sanctuary. The best time to visit is between the months of June and October when rainfall is minimum in the area.

Location: The Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 50 km, between Sultanganj to the Kahalgaon Hill in the middle of the Ganges, in the Bhagalpur District of Bihar

Timings: Open 24 hours

Area covered: 50 km stretch along the Ganga

Wildlife Found:
- Dolphins are the most common species found in this protected stretch
- You can also find fishes such as catfish, gharials, anchovies, and much more
- Turtles such as the Indian Roofed Turtle, flap shell turtles and tent turtles are also protected by the sanctuary
- Some other endangered animals that are found here include the crustaceans, several freshwater turtles, the Smooth-coated otter and helicopter catfish

The Sher Shah Suri Tomb in the Sasaram area of Bihar is considered one of the most impressive tombs in India. It is known as the second “Taj Mahal of India'' and is a sprawling mausoleum dedicated to the late emperor Sher Shah Suri.

The construction of the mausoleum was completed between the years 1540 and 1545 and the entire structure has been beautifully preserved to date. It is a beautiful specimen of the Indo-Islamic style of architecture that is made with red stone with intricate carvings on its façade. The tomb is 122 feet in height and consists of beautiful domes, arches, pillars, minarets, chhatris and much more.

Timings: Monday to Sunday (6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.)

Location: JP Nagar, Laxkariganj, Sasaram, Bihar 821115

Historical Facts: The Sher Shah Suri Tomb is one of the best examples of the Indo-Islamic style of architecture that was popularized by the Mughals. The tomb was built in honour of Emperor Sher Shah Suri and houses his tomb in its chambers.

Architecture: The Sher Shah Suri Tomb in Sarasaram was built as a mausoleum for Sher Shah Suri. It is one of the best examples of intricate Indo-Islamic architecture and is often compared to the majestic Taj Mahal. The mausoleum is defined by its intricate inlay work on its outer walls and inner chambers. You can also witness the grandeur of the arches, the corridors, domes, minarets and laced windows. The entire structure is made with red stone, which makes it even more majestic in its appearance.

The Sonepur fair in Bihar, which takes place every year, is a bustling rural fair that combines spirituality, sensuality, animal trading, and amusement. It is known as the cattle fair in the past (said to be the largest in Asia). Thousands of people attend the event from all around the country. 

Street magicians, religious gurus and tantriks, pilgrims, snack stalls, handicrafts, rides, circus performances, martial artists, and dancing girls all contribute to the carnival's unique atmosphere. The Sonepur fair is now more economically oriented, with the goal of attracting both domestic and international visitors.

About Sonepur:
Located on the banks of the River Gandak and the Ganges, Sonepur is a vibrant city in the Saran District that is also a sub-division in Bihar. Sonepur was once the site for the longest railway platform and is now famous for hosting Asia’s largest Cattle Fair every year.

What is otherwise one of the most peaceful and serene tourist places in Bihar comes alive every year during Kartik Poornima when people from all over the country travel to Sonepur to trade cattle. You can also find several ancient temples, beautiful local markets, picturesque riverside spots, and much more when you are visiting the quaint town of Sonepur.

Location: Sonepur, Saran District, Bihar 841101 (25.7 km from Patna via the Digha-Pahleja J P Setu Road.)

Historical Facts:
- Sonepur is one of the oldest cities in India that used to be ruled by the Suryavanshi Bais Kshatriya Kings from the Vardhan Dynasty.
- In fact, the kings of Sonepur were known to be some of the proudest rulers, often resisting Mughal domination through many successful battles.
- One of the most famous relics from the Sonepur area is the throne of the kings, which was made with 1000 kgs of gold and precious stones worth over 400 kgs.
- This throne, known as the “Keshashwa Gajasan”, was stolen after the Mughals attacked Sonepur with the help of the British.
- The throne was carried off into the jungle from where it disappeared.
- It is one of the most famous artifacts to have belonged to and disappeared from Sonepur.

Women in Mithila have practised Madhubani Painting for centuries to beautify their huts from the exterior as well as the inside for social and religious occasions. With the passage of time, it has progressed from a folk culture tradition to a popular form of Indian art. Madhubani art has spread to different mediums such as paper, cloth, and other surfaces. Northern Bihar is where the style began.

Madhubani, also known as Mithila Painting, is a significant aspect of Bihar's culture. Fingers, twigs, brushes, nib-pens, and matchsticks are used to create this age-old art, which is characterised by eye-catching geometrical designs and natural dyes and pigments. Because these paintings are usually created by Bihar women, they are extremely valuable.

About Madhubani:
Madhubani is one of the oldest cities in Bihar, and the birthplace of the famous Madhubani form of art. It is also home to ancient temples that have immense spiritual significance to Hindus, as well as for those who are interested in history.

Madhubani is also known as the commercial hotspot for the entire Madhubani district, with tourists flocking the city for its beautiful artwork, thriving markets, temples and vibrant local culture. It is also located very close to the Nepal border in the north, and to the south of Madhubani, you will find the rest of the Darbhanga district.

Location: Madhubani District, Darbhanga Division, Bihar 847211 (172.9 km from Patna via the Patna-Sitamarhi Road and NH 27)

Historical Facts:

- In 1972, Madhubani split from the rest of the Darbhanga District.
- After 1972, Madhubani became an independent district.
- Balirajgarh is an archaeological site that is believed to have been the capital city of the ancient and thriving Mithila Kingdom.

Culture:
- Madhubani is famous for Madhubani art such as the beautiful Mithila paintings.
- Mithila paintings were created by women who belonged to various communities in Nepal and India.
- However, the paintings originated in the Madhubani region, which is why they are known as Madhubani art.
- It is one of the most lucrative sources of income for the locals and a great economic resource.
- Even though this style of painting started out as wall art in the localities where the artists lived, they are now rendered on paper and exported all over the world.

The Navlakha Palace, also known as Rajnagar Palace, is an architectural marvel that can be found on the eastern banks of the Kamla River, in Rajnagar in Bihar. The 260-year-old palace was constructed by the Maharaja Rameshwar Singh and is an example of ancient architecture and engineering.

What makes this a remarkable historical site is a beautiful structure, the well-maintained rooms, the intricate carving work and the fact that it is home to the oldest Mithila painting. The portico of the palace surrounds a courtyard. There are 4 arches that are perched on hand-carved stone elephants. There are also several museums on the property, including a tea museum, a toy museum, a museum dedicated to horse carriages and a doll museum.

Location: Navlakha Palace Campus, Rajnagar, Bihar 847236

Timings: Monday to Sunday (9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.)

Historical Facts:
- This 19th-century palace was built by Maharaja Rameshwar Singh
- It was a seat of luxury, with fountains, gardens, ponds and intricate temples
- The palace was almost destroyed in 1934 as a result of an earthquake in the region
- Despite no further renovations, the palace is an example of ancient Indian architecture
- The palace complex covers an area of over 1,500 acres
- It consists of 11 temples dedicated to various Gods and Goddesses worshipped by Maharajas
- One of the most distinctive features of the temple are the hand-carved elephants which support 4 magnificent arches
- The palace also houses the oldest Mithila painting ever made, which was commissioned in 1919 on the occasion of the marriage ceremony of the Maharaja’s daughter

One of the most fascinating places to visit in Bihar is the Hot Springs in Rajgir, found at the foothills of the beautiful Vaibhav Hills. The water in these springs is believed to originate from the sacred Saptaparni Caves.

From here, seven streams of water feed the hot springs in Rajgir, which is also one of the hottest natural springs in the area, with the temperature of the water going up to 45 degrees Celsius. The spring is considered sacred and holy by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists alike. The water is believed to have medicinal properties that can heal chronic skin problems.

Location: The Hot Springs can be found in the Foothills of the Vaibhav Hills in Rajgir, Bihar (92.4 km from Patna via SH 78)

Timings: Monday to Sunday (6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.)

Facts:
- Geothermal springs, commonly known as hot springs, are created due to the heating up of groundwater by the core of the earth, that emerge from the ground in a vertical jet.
- The water of the hot springs is heated by the magma in the earth’s layers.
- When there is a crack or breach in the layers of the earth, the heat of the magma is distributed to the other layers.
- The thermal heat then reaches the groundwater, which due to the increased temperature, loses its density.
- As it gets lighter it rises to the surface of the earth.
- If there is a fault (crack or opening) on the surface, the hot water streams out with force, leading to the creation of a hot spring.

The Saptaparni Caves, also known as the Sapta Parni Guha, is one of the most visited sites in all of Bihar, frequented by tourists, Hindu devotees and Buddhist pilgrims throughout the year. The caves are located on the top of the Vaibhavgiri Hill in Rajgir and are amongst one of the places where the Buddha is said to have meditated.

The name of the cave translates to “the Seven Leaves Cave'' due to its natural shape and structure. The caves have been the site for the earliest known Buddhist council that was formed six months after the death of the Buddha. A committee mandap was also formed by King Ajatshatru that was used by the Buddhist council in these caves.

Location: The caves can be found located 2 km southwest of Rajgir (Nalanda), Bihar 803116, India.

Timings: Monday to Sunday (6:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

Historical Facts:
- The Saptaparni Caves are embedded on the side of the Vaibhavgiri Hills.
- The Buddha is said to have meditated extensively in these caves
- The caves were the site for the first Buddhist Council
- The Council was formed by a few hundred monks, 6 months after the death of the Buddha
- Ananda (the cousin of Buddha) and Upali (a companion of the Buddha) were appointed in this council to disseminate the knowledge of the Buddha

What to Visit:
- Chhatagiri, which used to be known as Gridhrakuta, was one of Buddha’s favorite retreats.
- The Pippala Stone House used to be Buddha’s residence in one of the towers in Vaibharagiri.
- The Sonbhandar Caves were discovered in the 3rd or 4th century AD by Jains.
- The Maniyar Math Site where excavations have revealed shrines dedicated to the snake-God from the Mahabharata – Mani-naga.
- Modern Jain temples can be found in the area.
- Hot springs of Rajgir.

Constructed back in the year 1874, the magnificent Jain Temple in Lachhuar is believed to be the gateway to Kshatriya Kund Gram, which is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Mahavira. This temple is actually a huge age-old dharmashala (rest house) that was built for the Jain pilgrims.

This dharmashala is home to a total of 65 rooms and a shrine dedicated to Lord Mahavira. The statue of Lord Mahavira present in this temple wesighs about 250 kg and dates back to over 2,600 years.

The temple hosts treks to Kund regularly for the visitors. One your trek in the Lacchuar valley, you can see statues of Lord Mahavira lying between two parallel ranges of hills and dating back to Samvat 1505.

Location: The Jain Temple is located on the way to kshatriya Kund Gram, in Sikandra block, around 20 kilometers west of Jamui district headquarter.

History: Dating back to 1874, the Jain Temple in Lachhuar is a sacred place for the Jains as it is considered to be the gateway to Kshatriya Kund Gram, the birthplace of Lord Mahavira. The temple has a rest house of 65 rooms for the Jain pilgrims and a shrine of Lord Mahavira. The idol of the lord present inside the shrine is over 2,600 years old.

Architecture: Lying on the way to kshatriya Kund Gram, in Sikandra Block, the Jain Temple in Lachhuar is basically an old rest house, featuring a total of 65 rooms where the Jain pilgrims can stay during their visit to this place.

There is also a temple of Lord Mahavira on the premises of the rest house. This temple is home to a 2,600 years old statue of Lord Mahavira, which has a weight of around 250 kg.

Lying off-road in Rajgir, the Ghora Katora Lake happens to be a picturesque natural lake. Surrounded by majestic hills and lush greens on three sides, this lake is known popularly for its unspoilt natural beauty. The term ‘Ghora Katora’ translates to ‘Horse Bowl’ in english language.

The lake is named so because of its unique shape that resembles a horse’s face. As legend has it, Ghora Katora Lake is situated at the exact site where Jarasandha from Mahabharata once had his stable.

Known as one of Rajgir’s cleanest sightseeing destinations, this lake flaunts azure blue water and immaculate surroundings that make it suitable for picnickers. Visitors can also enjoy a serene boat ride on the shimmering water of this lake and soak in the mesmerizing sunset views. During winters, visitors can also spend time spotting a myriad of exotic migratory birds that flock to this lake from central Asia and Siberia.

The sound of the water and the soft breeze at Ghora Katora Lake will surely offer a calming aura to every tourist visiting this place. Tourists can reach this lake by bicycles, tongas, or horse carts.

Timings: Open 24 hours

Location: Ghora Katora Lake is located 12 kilometres (7.5 mi) away from Rajgir. The lake is connected to Rajgir by a 6.5 kilometres (4.0 mi) long forested road. Motor vehicles are not allowed near the lake.

History: Encompassed by lofty mountains, Ghora Katora Lake has a shape that resembles the face of a horse. As legend has it, horses of the early kings of Rajgir once walked up to this lake to drink water. Then chief minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar visited Ghora Katora Lake for the first time in 2009 in order to popularize this place for eco-tourism. This lake opened for the public on 29th January 2011.

Attractions: Ghora Katora Lake offers excellent paddle boating opportunities. There are guest rooms and a cafeteria near this lake. There is also a gigantic 70 feet tall statue of Lord Buddha in pink sandstone, lying on the shores of the lake.