Bihar is often overlooked as a tourist destination in India, which is surprising considering its rich history. Once the seat of prosperous ancient Indian kingdoms, Bihar now struggles to attract heritage tourists. While there are some foreign tourists visiting Bihar, many of them stick to a few popular destinations in the state.
The history of Bihar dates back to the dawn of civilization in India, and it flourished as the seat of magnificent empires like Magadh. The state is also significant for giving birth to two major religions, Buddhism and Jainism. Over the years, Bihar has become a rich historical site with a diverse culture and tradition. So, without further delay, let's embark on a journey into the historic land of Bihar.
1. Patna
Located on the southern bank of the Ganges River, Patna is Bihar's largest city. In ancient India, it was known as Patliputra and is considered one of the oldest cities in the world with a continuous history of habitation. Patna is a significant pilgrimage site for Sikh devotees as it is considered the birthplace of the last Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh.
The city has a rich history, flourishing during the reigns of the Haryanka, Nanda, Mauryan, Shunga, Gupta, and Pala dynasties, earning fame across India. Today, Patna is a developing city striving to modernize, with the emergence of malls, high-end hotels, and theaters. Patna offers a decent destination with most modern facilities available. Some of the best places to visit in Patna are - Golghar, Hanuman Mandir, Patan Devi, Patna Zoo.
2. Vaishali
Vaishali is a significant archaeological site that served as the capital city of the Licchavi rulers. It is famous as the birthplace of the last Jain Tirthankar, Lord Mahavira. It is said that Mahavira was born and raised in the 6th century BCE in Kundalagram, part of the Republic of Vaishali. Another significant event that took place here was the last sermon of Buddha in 483 BCE.
During Buddha's time, Vaishali was a prosperous kingdom and is also known for its famous courtesan, Amrapali. The city is steeped in history and is home to the well-preserved Ashokan Pillar. Vaishali is mentioned in the travel accounts of renowned Chinese travelers such as Fa-hien and Hieun Tsang.
3. Nalanda
Nalanda, probably the oldest university in India, is a significant site to visit in Bihar. A reminder of the flourishing Gupta and Pala periods, Nalanda is a renowned tourist attraction in Bihar. According to tradition, the last Jain Tirthankara, Mahavira, spent a significant amount of time here, particularly during the monsoon seasons. Additionally, Buddha is reported to have taught near the mango grove in Nalanda.
This educational center was so famous, it attracted visitors from faraway lands! A Chinese traveler named Xuanzang (also known as Hiuen Tsang) came all the way from China to learn here and stayed for two whole years. Another Chinese explorer, I-tsing, liked it so much he stayed even longer - for ten years! This shows how amazing this place must have been. Today, most parts of Nalanda lie in ruins, but the place is definitely worth exploring!
4. Gaya
One of the most famous places in Bihar is Gaya, known as a Hindu pilgrimage hub and a stopover for the Buddhist pilgrimage center of Bodhgaya. It is believed that Buddha attained enlightenment under a tree here. Gaya is a bustling city located on the banks of the Phalgu River, and it is home to many temples and historic sites dating back to the Maurya and Gupta dynasties. The city's glory was so great that even Hiuen Tsang mentioned it in his travelogs.
5. Navlakha Palace, Rajnagar
Navlakha Palace, situated in Rajnagar near Madhubani in Bihar, lies in ruins today. Constructed by Maharaja Rameshwar Singh, the palace was severely damaged in a 1934 earthquake. Despite no renovation work being carried out after the destruction, the palace still stands as a testament to its architectural brilliance. The palace complex originally included gardens, a pond, and temples.
6. Hieun Tsang Memorial Hall, Kundalpur
This hall, built in memory of the famed Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang, is a remarkable structure. It is said that Hiuen Tsang visited Nalanda in the 5th century AD and was so impressed by the university that he stayed for 12 years to learn and teach. The memorial hall reflects the artistic and academic grandeur of Nalanda University.
7. Jalmandir, Pawapuri
An important Jain pilgrimage site, Jalmandir is located in Pawapuri, Bihar. It is highly revered by Jain devotees as it is believed to be the place where Lord Mahavira breathed his last in 500 BCE. It is considered to be the cremation ground of this last Tirthankara of the Jain sect. It is beleived that the demand for Lord Mahavira's ashes was so high that a large amount of soil had to be removed from around the funeral pyre, creating a pond. A white marble temple was later constructed at the site, which remains an important Jain pilgrimage site in Bihar.
8. Griddhakuta Peak, Rajgir
Also known as Vulture Peak, Griddhakuta Peak is located in Rajgir, Bihar. This peak is the most famous attraction in Rajgir, sitting at an elevation of 400 meters. Its name, Vulture Peak, comes from its shape and the frequent presence of vultures in the area.
This place holds great historical significance as it is believed to be where Lord Buddha preached the Lotus Sutra to convert Mauryan King Bimbisara. It is also said that Buddha started the second wheel of law and delivered many sermons here. The peak features a Peace Pagoda, built by Buddhists from Japan. There are also several caves here, adding to the excitement of reaching the peak via a chairlift.
9. Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Rajgir
Known as the World Peace Pagoda, the Vishwa Shanti Stupa stands proudly in the historic city of Rajgir. It is one of the 7 Peace Pagodas built in India and is a must-visit in Bihar. Built in 1969, the pagoda aims to spread the message of peace and non-violence.
The pagoda is marked by four statues of Buddha that reflect four important phases of his life - birth, enlightenment, teaching, and death. This Peace Pagoda is among the finest examples of Japanese architecture in India.
10. Sher Shah Suri Tomb, Sasaram
Built in 1545 AD in memory of Emperor Sher Shah Suri, this tomb is an excellent example of Indo-Islamic architecture in India. Architecturally splendid, it is situated in the middle of an artificial lake, making it a must-visit in Bihar.
Bihar is truly an awe-inspiring land that is currently under the weather, but our efforts can help this historically rich destination reach new heights.
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