Welcome to Bihar!
Bihar is located in the eastern part of India. Forming part of the flat Ganges riverine plain, it is primarily an agricultural state. The name Bihar is derived from the word “Vihara,” meaning monastery. For visitors, Bihar holds great spiritual and historical significance as the land where Lord Buddha spent much of his life and where ancient Buddhist monasteries flourished. Ruled by many great empires, Bihar is renowned for its glorious past and is known as the cradle of India’s first empire.
Main Attractions
Nalanda
In ancient India, Nalanda was one of the greatest centers of knowledge and learning. It is famous for sites such as the Nalanda University, Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall, Stupa of Sariputra, and Nav Nalanda Mahavihara. The origins of Nalanda date back to the time of Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira. The name Nalanda is derived from the words ‘Nalam,’ meaning lotus, and ‘da,’ meaning to give. Nalanda is also believed to be the birthplace of Sariputra, a devoted disciple of Lord Buddha.
Rajgir
A prominent Buddhist site in India, Rajgir is twice blessed as it is associated with both Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira. The name Rajgir or Rajgriha means “the home of royalty.” This place has been closely linked with Buddhism and Jainism. The area is also known for its warm water springs, which attract many visitors for their believed healing properties. Popular attractions include Swarna Bhandar, Ashoka Stupa Peak, Ajatshatru Fort, Vulture’s Peak, various Jain temples, and hot springs.
Bodhgaya
One of the most important and sacred Buddhist pilgrimage centers in the world, Bodhgaya is the site where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree and became the Buddha. The town is home to several monasteries and is a significant center for Buddhist learning. Major attractions include the Bodhi Tree, Mahabodhi Temple, the Dharma Chakra, and nearby sites such as Parasnath Hill.
Patna
Known as Pataliputra in ancient times, Patna is the capital of Bihar and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. With its rich historical and archaeological heritage, Patna is renowned for its Buddhist relics and is also an important pilgrimage site for the Sikh community. Located on the banks of the River Ganga, Patna boasts one of the longest river bridges in the world — the Mahatma Gandhi Setu. Popular attractions include Golghar, Patna Museum, Buddha Smriti Park, Takht Sri Harimandirji Patna Sahib, Kumhrar Park, and the city zoo.
Hotels in Bihar
- Bodhgaya Regency Hotel
- Hotel Delta International
- Buddha Inn
- Taj Darbar
- Patliputra Exotica
- Hotel Heritage Bodhgaya
Connectivity
Air: Bihar has an airport located in its capital city, Patna.
Rail: The main railway station is situated in the heart of Patna.
Road: Bihar is well connected by an extensive network of National Highways — 2, 23, 28, 30, 31, and 33 — and state highways linking it with all major Indian cities.
