BIHAR

  Why Visit Bihar?

Bihar isn’t just a state — it’s the cradle of Indian civilization. From the enlightenment of Buddha under the Bodhi Tree to the rise of mighty empires like Mauryas and Guptas, Bihar is soaked in history, layered with faith, and alive with stories that shaped the subcontinent.

Modern-day Bihar welcomes those who travel deeper — to rediscover roots, heritage, spirituality, and the rhythms of real, rural India.

  Top Destinations in Bihar

  Bodh Gaya – The Land of Enlightenment

• Where Siddhartha became Buddha, under the sacred Bodhi Tree

• Visit Mahabodhi Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Also explore nearby Thai, Tibetan, Japanese, and Bhutanese monasteries

• A peaceful spiritual hub for global pilgrims

  Nalanda & Rajgir – Seat of Ancient Wisdom

• Nalanda University ruins: One of the world’s oldest universities

• Rajgir hills: Caves, ropeways, and the Vishwa Shanti Stupa

• Both cities are historical, Buddhist, and intellectually rich

  Patna – The Capital of History

• Once Pataliputra – capital of the Mauryan Empire

• Explore Golghar, Patna Museum, Bihar Museum, and Ganga Ghats

• Bustling, chaotic, but full of contrast between ancient and urban

  Vaishali – First Republic & Relics of Buddha

• Birthplace of democracy and site of Buddha’s last sermon

• Visit Ashokan Pillar, stupas, and archaeological remains

• Deeply spiritual and offbeat

  Madhubani – Folk Art That Tells Stories

• Home of Madhubani painting, a globally admired art form

• Visit villages like Ranti to see walls and homes turned into colorful canvases

• A paradise for art lovers, photographers, and cultural explorers

  Other Places to Consider

• Gaya – A Hindu pilgrimage city on the banks of the Falgu River

• Sitamarhi – Believed to be the birthplace of Sita (Ramayana)

• Sasaram – Tomb of Sher Shah Suri, an Indo-Afghan architectural marvel

• Bhagalpur – Known for silk weaving and riverine beauty

  Best Time to Visit Bihar

• October to March: Pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and pilgrimages

• April to June: Hot — avoid unless attending cultural events

• July to September: Rainy but good for rural greenery and photography

  How to Reach

• By Air: Patna (Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport) is the main airport

• By Train: Well connected by Indian Railways to all major cities

• By Road: Accessible from Jharkhand, West Bengal, and UP via national highways

  Where to Stay

  What to Eat in Bihar

• Litti-Chokha – smoked wheat balls with mashed spiced veggies

• Thekua – a sweet snack offered during Chhath Puja

• Sattu Sharbat – healthy summer drink made from roasted gram

• Khaja, Laung-Latika, Anarsa – traditional Bihari sweets

• Try food in local dhabas for the real flavor!

  Festivals & Culture

• Chhath Puja – Bihar’s grandest and most spiritual festival, on riverbanks

• Sonepur Mela – One of Asia’s largest cattle fairs, near Patna

• Buddha Purnima – Celebrated grandly in Bodh Gaya

• Folk dances like Jat-Jatin, Bidesia, and traditional Bhojpuri music add life to rural Bihar

   Travel Tips from AzaadiRoutes

• Be ready for local warmth & raw authenticity — not polished tourism

• Hire guides at heritage sites to understand deep stories

• Bihar is safe, but it’s best to travel in groups or with local operators if exploring offbeat areas

• Don’t miss rural India — it’s the true face of Bihar

• Best to carry cash, especially in small towns or villages

   Suggested 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Patna – explore city sights & Ganga Aarti
Day 2: Drive to Nalanda & Rajgir – visit university ruins, ropeway & Shanti Stupa
Day 3: Full day in Bodh Gaya – Mahabodhi Temple, international monasteries
Day 4: Visit Vaishali – explore Ashokan heritage
Day 5: Head to Madhubani – interact with artists, shop for folk art

   From AzaadiRoutes:

“Bihar isn’t just India’s past — it’s India’s pulse.
A place where the Buddha walked, where kingdoms rose, and where wisdom still echoes in silence.
Come here not for filters — but for foundation.”