Explore destinations in this beautiful state
Bihar, situated in the eastern part of India along the fertile Gangetic plains, is one of the oldest inhabited places in the world with a history dating back to the dawn of human civilization. It was the center of powerful ancient empires like the Magadha, which gave rise to India's first major dynasties—the Mauryas and Guptas. Bihar is the birthplace of Buddhism, as Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya to become the Buddha, and of Jainism, through Lord Mahavira. The state's landscape is defined by the sacred Ganga River, which bisects it, and its cultural and intellectual heritage has profoundly influenced the subcontinent for millennia.
Bihar's tourism is deeply rooted in spirituality, history, and education. Spiritual and Pilgrimage Tourism is foremost, with the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) being the holiest Buddhist site, and the ancient Jain pilgrimage center at Pawapuri. For Historical and Archaeological Sites, the ruins of Nalanda University (another UNESCO site), one of the world's first residential universities, and the Vikramshila University are paramount. Other key sites include the Ashokan Pillar in Vaishali and the Sher Shah Suri Tomb in Sasaram. Cultural and Heritage Tourism thrives during the Chhath Puja festival and in the folk traditions of Mithila painting (Madhubani). Nature and Wildlife can be explored in the Valmiki National Park.
Bihar is connected through a developing but extensive transport network. Air Travel is served by airports in Patna (Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport), Gaya (for Buddhist circuit tourists), and Darbhanga, with increasing domestic connectivity. Rail Transport is crucial, with major junctions in Patna, Gaya, and Muzaffarpur, making the state a key part of the East Central Railway network and well-linked to major Indian cities. A dense Road Network of national highways (like NH 19 and NH 31) facilitates travel by state-run (BSRTC) and private buses. Within cities and towns, transport is primarily via auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and a growing number of app-based cab services, especially in Patna.
The best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for exploring outdoor historical sites. Summers are extremely hot and humid. Visitors should be prepared for significant crowds at major pilgrimage sites like Bodh Gaya, especially during Buddhist festivals and the winter season. Dress modestly and remove footwear at all religious sites. It is advisable to hire a knowledgeable local guide at historical ruins like Nalanda to fully appreciate their context and significance. Bihar offers a distinct and flavorful cuisine; be sure to try local specialties like litti chokha, sattu paratha, and sweets such as khaja and thekua. Drink only bottled or filtered water and be cautious with street food hygiene.