Bihar Travel Guide: Discover The Hidden Gems Of India

Bihar, a state located in the eastern part of India, is a destination that is often overlooked by travelers. However, this state has a lot to offer, from historical landmarks to natural wonders, vibrant nightlife to cultural immersion.

Top Attractions

Bihar has a rich history and is home to several important historical landmarks. Some of the top attractions include:

• The ancient city of Nalanda, which was an important center of learning in ancient India
• The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world
• The ruins of the ancient city of Vikramshila, which was a major center of Buddhist learning in the 8th and 9th centuries
• The Rajgir Hot Springs, which were believed to have healing properties and were frequented by the Buddha himself

Hidden Gems

While Bihar has several well-known attractions, there are also some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Some of these include:

• The Barabar Caves, which are a series of ancient rock-cut caves that were used by Jain and Buddhist monks as meditation chambers
• The Madhubani Paintings, which are a traditional style of painting that originated in the Mithila region of Bihar
• The Kakolat Waterfall, which is a stunning waterfall located in the Nawada district
• The Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of wildlife including tigers, leopards, and elephants

Food Scene

Bihar has a rich culinary tradition and is known for its delicious street food. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Litti Chokha, which is a traditional Bihari dish made with roasted wheat balls and mashed potatoes
• Sattu Paratha, which is a flatbread stuffed with roasted gram flour
• Chana Ghugni, which is a spicy chickpea curry
• Malpua, which is a sweet pancake made with flour and sugar syrup

Budget-Friendly Tips

Bihar is a budget-friendly destination, and there are several ways to save money while exploring the state. Some tips include:

• Travel by local buses or trains instead of private taxis
• Eat at local street food stalls instead of fancy restaurants
• Stay in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or homestays
• Take advantage of free or low-cost activities such as hiking or visiting temples

Outdoor Adventures

Bihar is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, trekking, and wildlife spotting. Some of the top outdoor adventures include:

• Trekking in the Rajgir Hills
• Hiking to the top of the Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya
• Spotting tigers and leopards in the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary
• Exploring the caves and rock formations in the Barabar Caves

Family-Friendly Activities

Bihar is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that both kids and adults will enjoy. Some of the top family-friendly activities include:

• Visiting the Sanjay Gandhi Botanical Garden in Patna
• Exploring the Bihar Museum in Patna, which has interactive exhibits on the history and culture of Bihar
• Watching a movie at one of the many cinemas in Patna
• Visiting the Patna Zoo, which is home to a variety of animals including elephants, tigers, and crocodiles

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in Bihar, consider trying one of these activities:

• Learning traditional Madhubani painting techniques from a local artist
• Attending a Bihari wedding, which are known for their elaborate ceremonies and colorful attire
• Visiting a local village and learning about rural life in Bihar
• Trying your hand at traditional Bihari handicrafts such as weaving or pottery

Natural Wonders

Bihar is home to several stunning natural wonders that are worth visiting. Some of the top natural wonders include:

• The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, which is home to the endangered Gangetic dolphin
• The Valmiki National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife including tigers, elephants, and leopards
• The Rajgir Hills, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside
• The Kakolat Waterfall, which is a perfect spot for picnicking and swimming

Vibrant Nightlife

Bihar may not have the same nightlife scene as some of India’s larger cities, but there are still plenty of options for those looking to have a good time after dark. Some of the top spots include:

• The bars and clubs in Patna, which offer a mix of Indian and Western music
• The night market in Gaya, which is a great spot for shopping and people-watching
• The street food stalls in Nalanda, which come alive at night
• The theaters and cinemas in Patna, which often have late-night showings

Local Markets

Bihar is a great destination for shopping, with plenty of local markets and bazaars selling everything from handicrafts to spices. Some of the top markets include:

• The Patna Market, which is a bustling marketplace selling everything from clothes to electronics
• The Madhubani Market, which is known for its traditional Madhubani paintings
• The Nalanda Market, which is a great spot for handicrafts and souvenirs
• The Gaya Market, which is a popular spot for buying religious items and souvenirs

Beaches and Mountains

While Bihar is not known for its beaches or mountains, there are still some spots worth visiting for those looking for a change of scenery. Some of the top spots include:

• The Rajgir Hills, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside
• The Valmiki National Park, which is home to the Himalayan foothills
• The Gaya Hill, which is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking
• The Chandan Dam, which is a popular spot for fishing and boating

Cultural Immersion

Bihar is a great destination for cultural immersion, with plenty of opportunities to learn about the local culture and traditions. Some of the top cultural experiences include:

• Attending a Bihari wedding, which are known for their elaborate ceremonies and colorful attire
• Learning traditional Bihari handicrafts such as weaving or pottery
• Visiting a local village and learning about rural life in Bihar
• Attending a traditional Bihari festival such as Chhath Puja or Holi

Art and Music Scene

Bihar has a rich artistic and musical tradition, with plenty of opportunities to experience local art and music. Some of the top spots include:

• The Bihar Museum in Patna, which has a collection of traditional Bihari art and artifacts
• The Patna Museum, which has a collection of ancient sculptures and artifacts
• The Patna Arts Festival, which showcases local artists and musicians
• The Bihar Diwas Festival, which celebrates the culture and history of Bihar

Walking Tours

For those who prefer to explore on foot, there are several walking tours available in Bihar. Some of the top walking tours include:

• The Nalanda Walking Tour, which takes you through the ancient ruins of Nalanda
• The Bodh Gaya Walking Tour, which takes you through the holy sites of Bodh Gaya
• The Patna Heritage Walk, which takes you through the historical sites of Patna
• The Madhubani Painting Walk, which takes you through the streets of Madhubani to see traditional Madhubani paintings

Architectural Marvels