Bihar is a state located in the eastern part of India, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and significant contributions to Indian civilization. It is the third-most populous state in India and is bordered by Uttar Pradesh to the west, Jharkhand to the south, West Bengal to the east, and Nepal to the north. The state is historically significant as the birthplace of Buddhism and Jainism, with important religious sites like Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Bihar is also home to Patna, its capital, which was once the seat of several powerful ancient kingdoms, including the Maurya and Gupta empires.
The state has a diverse cultural landscape, with vibrant festivals, traditional arts, and regional cuisines. Despite facing challenges such as economic development and infrastructure, Bihar continues to be an important center for education, politics, and agriculture in India. The state is also known for its natural beauty, with the Ganges River flowing through its plains, and historic sites like Nalanda University and Vikramshila University, which were once major centers of learning in ancient India.
1.Sher Shah Suri Tomb
The Sher Shah Suri Tomb is a remarkable historical monument located in Sasaram, in the state of Bihar, India. It is the tomb of Sher Shah Suri, the founder of the Suri Empire in North India. Sher Shah Suri ruled from 1540 to 1545 and is best known for his administrative reforms, infrastructure projects, and the introduction of the currency system. The tomb itself is a symbol of his legacy.
Location : The Sher Shah Suri Tomb is located in Sasaram, a city in the state of Bihar, India. Sasaram is situated in the Rohtas district, approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of Patna, the capital of Bihar.
Timing : The Sher Shah Suri Tomb is generally open to visitors throughout the week. The typical visiting hours are:
- Open Time: 6:00 AM
- Close Time: 6:00 PM
Entry Fee : The entry fee for visiting the Sher Shah Suri Tomb is generally modest, but it can vary depending on local policies. As of now:
- Indian visitors: Around ₹10 (Rupees)
- Foreign tourists: Around ₹200 (Rupees)
2. Buddha Smriti Park
Buddha Smriti Park is a prominent park located in Patna, the capital of Bihar, India. It is a beautiful and serene public park dedicated to Lord Buddha and his teachings, commemorating the significant historical and cultural influence of Buddhism in the region.
Location : Buddha Smriti Park is located in the heart of Patna, the capital city of Bihar, India. It is near Patna Junction and the famous Mahavir Mandir.
Timing : The typical visiting timings for Buddha Smriti Park in Patna are:
- Opening Time: 6:00 AM
- Closing Time: 6:00 PM
Entry Fee : The entry to Buddha Smriti Park in Patna is generally free for visitors. However, there may be a nominal fee for specific areas or attractions within the park.
3.Valmiki Tiger Reserve
Valmiki Tiger Reserve is a renowned wildlife sanctuary located in the West Champaran district of Bihar, India. It is named after the ancient sage Valmiki, who is said to have composed the Ramayana in the nearby forest area. The reserve is one of the most significant tiger habitats in India and a crucial part of Bihar’s natural heritage.
Location : Valmiki Tiger Reserve is located in the West Champaran district of Bihar, India, near the Nepal border. The reserve is situated along the Saraswati River and is part of the larger Valmiki National Park.
Timing : The Valmiki Tiger Reserve generally follows these visiting hours:
- Opening Time: 6:00 AM
- Closing Time: 5:00 PM
Entry fee : The entry fee for Valmiki Tiger Reserve is typically nominal, but it can vary depending on the type of visit or activity.
- For Indian visitors, the entry fee is generally around ₹20 to ₹50.
- For foreign visitors, the fee may be higher, around ₹200 to ₹500.
4. The Great Buddha Statue
The Great Buddha Statue is a monumental statue of Lord Buddha located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India. This statue is one of the most famous landmarks in the region and a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world, as Bodh Gaya is the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
Location : The Great Buddha Statue is located in Bodh Gaya, which is in the Gaya district of Bihar, India.
- Location: Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodh Gaya, Gaya District, Bihar, India
- Coordinates: 24.6951° N, 84.9910° E
- Nearby Landmarks: It is near the famous Bodhi Tree and the Mahabodhi Temple, which are central attractions in the area.
Timing : The Great Buddha Statue and the Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Bodh Gaya typically follow these visiting timings:
- Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM (daily)
Entry Fee : The entry to the Great Buddha Statue in Bodh Gaya is generally free for visitors.
5. Glass Bridge
The Rajgir Glass Bridge is an awe-inspiring tourist attraction in Bihar, India, offering an exhilarating experience with its transparent glass flooring that lets visitors walk above the stunning landscape below. Located in the scenic Rajgir region, the bridge is perched high on the Vishwamitra Hills, providing panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, hills, and forests. This engineering marvel is designed to offer a thrilling sense of floating above the ground, drawing tourists with its blend of adventure and natural beauty. With its strategic location near historical sites like the Brahmayoni Hills and the Saptparni Caves, the bridge has quickly become a must-visit destination for those seeking both a unique experience and breathtaking views.
Location : The Rajgir Glass Bridge is located in Rajgir, a historic town in the Nalanda district of Bihar, India. Rajgir is situated approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Patna, the capital of Bihar.
Entry fee : The entry fee for the Rajgir Glass Bridge may vary, and as of the latest available information, it generally falls within a range of around ₹50 to ₹100 for Indian tourists. However, the fee can be slightly higher for foreign tourists.
Timing : The Rajgir Glass Bridge typically operates during the day, with the following general timing:
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
6. Rajgir kund
Rajgir Kund refers to the historical and cultural significance of the hot springs located in Rajgir, a town in the Indian state of Bihar. The term “kund” in Hindi generally refers to a pool or a reservoir, and in Rajgir, these hot water springs are an important feature of the area. The natural hot springs are believed to have medicinal properties, and the water is rich in minerals. Rajgir Kund is located amidst picturesque hills, surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular site for pilgrims and tourists alike. The town itself holds deep historical roots, being closely associated with ancient Indian religions such as Buddhism and Jainism, with Rajgir once serving as the capital of the Magadh region. The hot springs in Rajgir are said to have been used by rulers and saints for relaxation and healing, adding to the spiritual aura of the region. Today, Rajgir Kund remains a significant attraction, offering both spiritual solace and a glimpse into the natural beauty and heritage of Bihar.
Location : Rajgir Kund is located in Rajgir, a town in the Nalanda district of the Indian state of Bihar. Rajgir is situated about 15 kilometers east of Nalanda, and approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Patna, the state capital.
Entry Fee : The entry fee for the Rajgir Kund (hot springs) is generally very nominal. As of the latest information:
- Entry Fee: ₹10 to ₹20 per person
Timing : The Rajgir Kund (hot springs) is generally open to visitors throughout the day. However, the specific timings may vary slightly depending on local regulations and seasonal factors. Typically, the visiting hours are:
- Morning: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM
- Evening: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Kakolat Waterfall
The Kakolat Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction located in the Nawada district of Bihar, India. Situated in the picturesque Kakolat Hills, the waterfall cascades down from a height of approximately 25 meters, creating a serene and scenic environment that draws tourists and pilgrims alike. The area is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. The waterfall is especially beautiful during the monsoon season when it swells with water, creating a breathtaking sight.
Location : The Kakolat Waterfall is located in the Nawada district of Bihar, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Kakolat hills, which are around 20 kilometers from Nawada town and about 45 kilometers from Rajgir.
Timing : The Kakolat Waterfall is generally open to visitors throughout the day. However, there are no specific entry timings strictly enforced for the waterfall. Typically, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the waterfall from morning to evening, with the best time to visit being early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Entry Fee : The entry fee for the Kakolat Waterfall is generally quite nominal. As of the latest available information:
- Entry Fee: Around ₹10 to ₹20 per person.
Famous Food in Bihar
Dal-pitha
Dal Pitha is a traditional and beloved dish from Bihar, India, known for its comforting and flavorful taste. It is made by stuffing a dough, typically made of rice flour, with a spiced lentil filling, and then steaming the dumplings. The filling usually consists of yellow split peas (dal), which are cooked with garlic, ginger, green chilies, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin and asafoetida. Once prepared, the dough is shaped into small pitha (dumplings) and steamed to perfection. Dal Pitha is often served with a tangy chutney or a rich curry and is a popular dish during festivals, special occasions, or even as a wholesome meal for daily consumption. Its soft texture and flavorful filling make it a cherished part of Bihari cuisine, offering a delightful balance of spice and simplicity.
Ingredients: wheat flour and rice flour , moong dal and chana dal.
Litti-chokha
Litti Chokha is a quintessential dish from Bihar, celebrated for its rustic flavors and cultural significance. The dish consists of litti, which are round wheat flour dough balls stuffed with roasted sattu (a flour made from roasted gram), mustard oil, and spices like carom seeds, garlic, and green chilies. These littis are traditionally cooked by roasting them over charcoal or baking them in an oven, giving them a unique smoky flavor. The dish is typically paired with chokha, a mashed mixture of baingan (eggplant), tomatoes, potatoes, and garlic, all roasted and then blended with mustard oil, onions, and spices. The combination of the warm, crispy littis and the tangy, flavorful chokha makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. Often enjoyed with a drizzle of ghee, Litti Chokha is a symbol of Bihari hospitality and is popular during festivals, family gatherings, and special occasions.
Ingredients : wheat flour and roasted gram flour , baingan
Khaja
Khaja is a traditional sweet and popular snack in Bihar, especially during festivals and special occasions. It’s often referred to as the “king of sweets” in the Mithila region of Bihar, and it holds a special place in Bihari culture. Khaja is known for its crisp texture and rich sweetness, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Ingredients : flour(maida) , sugar syrup and dry fruits
Balushahi
Balushahi is a traditional Indian sweet that is especially popular in Bihar, as well as in other parts of North India. Known for its crispy exterior and soft, flaky interior, Balushahi is often likened to a doughnut but with a unique texture and taste. It is a beloved dessert, typically enjoyed during festivals, weddings, or special occasions.
Ingredients : flour(maida) and sugar syrup
Thekua
Thekua is a traditional Bihari sweet that holds great cultural significance, especially in the Bihar region. It is a popular snack, typically prepared during festivals, religious occasions, and family gatherings. Thekua is made using simple ingredients, yet it is incredibly flavorful, crunchy, and satisfying. It is most commonly associated with the festival of Chhath Puja, but it is enjoyed year-round in many households.
Ingredients : wheat flour and jaggery
