Top Tourist Places in Bihar

Introduction

When we think of Bihar, what comes to our mind? Before we talk about the top tourist places to visit in Bihar, let’s get to know its history. Bihar is one of the oldest inhabited places in the world, dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Being the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Bihar has a strong influence on Buddhism and is home to many Buddhist monuments. Why visit Bihar, you ask? With its rich history, culture, and spirituality, Bihar has a lot to offer. From witnessing the stunning Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya to exploring the Nalanda University ruins, Bihar is a paradise for history buffs. It is also a hub for religious tourism, with temples like the Mahavir Mandir in Patna attracting devotees from all over the country. Now let’s dive into the top tourist places in Bihar. Get ready to be impressed by the archaeological marvels of Bodh Gaya, the ancient ruins of Nalanda, the hot springs in Rajgir, the magnificent Bawan Pokhar Temple in Vaishali, the iconic Mahavir Mandir in Patna, and many more breathtaking sites. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Bihar!

Bodh Gaya

As you’re making your way through Bihar’s top tourist spots, you absolutely cannot miss Bodh Gaya, the birthplace of Buddhism. The Mahabodhi Temple is the main attraction; a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is where Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. Be sure to marvel at the ornate Great Buddha Statue, too. For a meditative moment, head to Animesh Lochan Chaitya, where it’s said that Buddha spent a week staring in one direction. Foreign monasteries are aplenty here, with the Royal Bhutan Monastery and Thai Monastery being particularly picturesque. The Vietnamese Temple is also worth a visit, with its tranquil gardens and intricate architecture. Finally, make your way to the Archaeological Museum, where you can explore the temple’s history and artefacts. And don’t forget to post a selfie with the fabulous Buddha statue!

Nalanda

Nalanda, the ancient university town, is a must-visit in Bihar. The Nalanda University ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, take you back in time to witness ancient academic excellence. The Archaeological Museum houses rare artefacts, including manuscripts and seals. Meanwhile, the Hieun Tsang Memorial Hall honours the famous Chinese explorer who studied in Nalanda. The site offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Buddhism in Bihar. So, don’t forget to plan a visit to this historically significant town on your Bihar trip.

Rajgir

Rajgir is one of the top tourist places in Bihar. It’s a beautiful town surrounded by green hills and valleys. Venuvana Vihar, an ancient Buddhist monastery, is a must-visit place here. It’s said that Buddha spent a considerable amount of time meditating and preaching here. The town is also famous for its hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. The Cyclopean Wall, an ancient wall made of stones, is another attraction here. It’s a remarkable example of ancient architecture. Veerayatan Museum is also a place worth visiting in Rajgir. It houses various artifacts from ancient times and provides insights into the rich history and culture of the place. The museum also has a beautiful garden, which adds to the overall experience. Rajgir is a place to relax and unwind amidst nature. It has a unique charm that’s hard to resist. Once you’re here, you’ll know why it’s one of the top tourist places in Bihar.

Vaishali

Okay, here’s what’s up in Vaishali. First, we have the Bawan Pokhar Temple, which is believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile. It’s a serene place with a beautiful pond surrounding the temple. Legend has it that Lord Buddha visited this place and calmed a group of quarrelling merchants by preaching them. Next, we have the Relic Stupa which is another point of attraction in Vaishali. It is said to have the remains or relics of Lord Buddha, who was cremated here. This place is visited by a lot of Buddhists who come to pay homage to Lord Buddha and seek blessings. Finally, we have Kundalpur, which is a small village located in Vaishali. This place holds significant importance for Jains, as it is said that Lord Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthankara, was born here. There are many temples dedicated to Lord Mahavira in this village and it is a must-visit place for anyone interested in Jainism. Vaishali is a hub of rich historical significance and cultural heritage that will take you back to the roots of Indian civilization.

Patna

When you think of Patna, you may picture a crowded and bustling city, but there are still some hidden gems here for tourists to enjoy. The Mahavir Mandir is a popular Hindu temple with intricate carvings and beautiful architecture, definitely worth a visit for those interested in religious sites. If you’re interested in history, the Patna Museum displays historical artifacts, paintings, and weapons. You can learn about Bihar’s rich culture and history through the museum’s well-maintained exhibits. Sadakat Ashram is another must-visit site for history buffs. This peaceful ashram has a library, a museum, and a small guesthouse, preserving the history of India’s freedom struggle. Golghar is a famous granary and an architectural marvel, that you may have seen in Instagram feeds. If you have enough time, visit the Kumhrar archeological park to see the ancient ruins of the Mauryan Empire. The park also houses a museum that showcases the amazing discovery of ancient artifacts during excavations. So, Patna has many hidden treasures for you to discover. From temples to museums, Patna offers something for everyone.

Conclusion

So there you have it – the top ten tourist places to visit in Bihar. From the spiritual pilgrimage of Bodh Gaya to the historical sites of Nalanda and Rajgir, Bihar has much to offer for visitors. The quaint Vaishali, the bustling city of Patna, it’s all here! Get ready to be amazed by the relics, the monuments and the stories of old. There’s plenty to learn and plenty of beauty to immerse in. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and go on a trip to Bihar. You won’t regret it!