Humans have lived in Bihar for a very long time; the earliest inhabitants discovered in Chirand, on the northern banks of the Ganges revealed the presence of civilisation since the Neolithic era (~ 2500 BC). So do the ancient rock paintings depicting animals in the picturesque plateaus of Kaimur. The civilisation has flourished in these fertile plains, inundated by several rivers and occasional hills and plateaus. In this article, TravelBaits will take you through the gems of state tourism, which should make Bihar a bucket list for any world traveller.
- The Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya: Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple, built in 300 BC by King Ashoka, is the most important pilgrimage site for the Buddhists. The temple has a descendant of Bodhi Tree beneath which Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. It has been rebuilt and renovated several times and attracts lakhs of tourists every year. TravelBaits offers comprehensive tour packages for Bodh Gaya and around.
2. Nalanda University, Rajgir: Nalanda lies approximately 95 Kms from Patna, near the city of Bihar Sharif. It was a major seat of learning in India from 5th Century CE to 1200 CE and flourished under the patronage of Guptas and Harsha, the king of Kannauj. It attracted students from neighbouring countries like Tibet, China, Korea and Central Asia. The writings of Chinese pilgrim and a student at Nalanda University, XuanZang provides detailed account of this period. Unfortunately, the University campus had a tragedic demise as it was burnt down by Turkish invader Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1193 CE. The ruins of Nalanda University were declared UNESCO World Heritage in 2016. Tour Nalanda with TravelBaits!
3. Vaishali, Bihar: Vaishali is the oldest republic of the world. Amidst many attractions there is the Ashoka Pillar or Ashoka Stambha was built by Emperor Ashok post the Kalinga war. After the massacre in Kalinga war, Ashok embraced Buddhism and followed the path of non-violence. The pillar has a lion on top facing north, believed to be the direction of Buddha’s last voyage. It was built to commemorate Buddha’s last Sermon that was delivered in Vaishali. He then went on to attain salvation in Kushinagar. TravelBaits provides multiple options to visit Vaishali.
4. Takht Shri Patna Sahib, Patna: Takht Shri Harmandir Sahib is the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, tenth guru of the Sikhs. In the neighbourhood of Takht Shri Harmandir is the Bal Leela Sahib Gurudwara, where he spent the early years of his childhood. To commemorate his stories, these places are now converted into tourist and religious attractions. Recently a grand ceremony was organised on the 350th anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh and followers from different corners of the world poured in to take part in the celebration. Explore Historic Gurudwaras of Patna with TravelBaits!
5. Sher Shah Suri Mausoleum, Sasaram: The tomb is regarded as one of the finest specimen of Afghan architecture in India. Built to commemorate Sher Shah Suri, the great Pathan ruler and one of the ablest administrators and tactful military genius of his time.
6. Raj Darbhanga, Darbhanga: An impressive complex with palaces, forts and temples in Mithila architecture, Raj Darbhanga represents the best of Bihar Royalties in the medieval times. Once considered to be one of the richest and biggest zamindaris in India, Darbhanga contributed immensely to the educational, economic and cultural growth of the region.
