Bihar is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical importance, and religious significance. It is famous for ancient sites like Nalanda University, the Bodhi Tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, and the pilgrimage circuit of the Buddhist, Hindu, Jain, and Sikh religions.
Top places to visit include Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Nalanda University Ruins, Rajgir for its hot springs and Vishwa Shanti Stupa, the ancient city of Vaishali, Patna for the Golghar and Patna Museum, Sonepur for the Sonepur Cattle Fair, and various religious sites like the Janaki Temple in Sitamarhi.
The ideal time to visit Bihar is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Avoid the hot summer months and the monsoon season when it can be uncomfortably humid and the risk of floods is higher.
Yes, Bihar houses several wildlife sanctuaries such as the Valmiki National Park, Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, and Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary. These sanctuaries are home to various species of mammals, birds, and aquatic life.
Festivals like Chhath Puja, which is dedicated to the Sun God, Sonepur Cattle Fair, one of the Asia’s largest livestock fairs, Pitrapaksha Mela in Gaya, which holds great significance for Hindu devotees, and Buddha Purnima in Bodh Gaya are significant for tourists to experience the local culture.
Bihar, like any other place, has areas that are safe for travelers as well as places that may have safety concerns. It is recommended for tourists to take regular travel precautions, stay aware of the local news, and avoid traveling alone at night in unfamiliar or isolated areas.
Bihar's cuisine includes a variety of delicious dishes such as Litti Chokha, Sattu Paratha, Bihari Kebab, Khaja, and Thekua. The cuisine is known for its simple yet rich flavors, often accompanied by a variety of pickles and chutneys.
Tourists can reach Bihar by air, with the main airport located in Patna which is well connected to other major cities in India. Railways offer extensive connectivity throughout the state, and one can also enter Bihar by road via national and state highways from neighboring states.