Things To Do
in Bihār

Bihār, located in eastern India, is one of the country's oldest states, rich in history and culture. It is known for its ancient universities, including Nalanda and Vikramshila, which were once prominent centers of learning. The state is also the birthplace of Buddhism, with significant sites like Bodh Gaya attracting pilgrims from around the world.

Bihār offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, with vibrant festivals and diverse local communities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Patna
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the Golghar, an enormous stupa that offers a panoramic view of Patna. Follow this with a stroll along the banks of the Ganges River.

afternoon
:

Explore the Patna Museum, where you can see artifacts from the Mauryan Empire, and then head to the nearby Kumhrar archaeological site.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Bihari dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing dishes such as Litti Chokha.

day 2
Day 2: Bodh Gaya Pilgrimage
morning
:

Travel to Bodh Gaya, the site of Buddha's enlightenment. Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

afternoon
:

Explore the various monasteries built by different countries, reflecting their unique architectural styles.

evening
:

Relax in the serene environment of Bodh Gaya, and enjoy a meditation session at one of the local centers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$2
🚌Local bus fare$0.20
🏨Budget hotel per night$15
🚕Taxi ride within the city$1
Cup of tea$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious and diverse cuisine
  • Welcoming and hospitable locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Traffic congestion in urban areas
  • Basic infrastructure in some regions
  • "नमस्ते" - Hello
  • "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
  • "कृपया मदद करें" - Please help
  • "आपका नाम क्या है?" - What is your name?
  • "मुझे समझ में नहीं आता" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Bihār

Visit one of these nice places.

Mahabodhi Temple

This UNESCO World Heritage site features stunning architecture and is a significant pilgrimage site.

Golghar

An iconic granary shaped like a beehive with an excellent view of the Ganges River, perfect for sunset photography.

Nalanda Ruins

The ancient ruins of Nalanda University offer a glimpse into India's historical educational grandeur.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bihār

Bihār's culinary heritage is as diverse as its culture, offering a range of flavors and dishes that are a must-try for visitors.

Bihār Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Litti Chokha

A traditional dish made of whole wheat balls stuffed with spiced roasted gram flour, served with mashed eggplant and tomato.

Must-Try!

Sattu

Roasted gram flour that can be served in various forms, often made into a refreshing drink or stuffed into parathas.

Thekua

A sweet snack made from wheat flour, jaggery, and coconut, usually prepared during festivals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Maurya Lok

A popular shopping and food hub in Patna, famous for its street food options.

Bihar Sharif Street Vendors

Known for their delicious snacks like Chaat and Pakoras, providing a taste of local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bihār experiences a tropical climate with three main seasons: a hot summer, a monsoon season, and a cool winter. Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F). The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, significantly influencing agriculture and daily life in the region.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet elders first and show them respect; it is a cultural norm.

Dress Modestly

Wearing conservative clothing is advisable, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

Remove Shoes

Always remove shoes before entering homes, temples, and some public buildings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bihār is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to remain vigilant in crowded places and avoid traveling alone at night. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, so keeping personal belongings secure is important. Always use registered taxis or rideshare services for transportation.

Tipping in Bihār

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but digital payments via apps like Paytm and Google Pay are becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

Pleasant weather with cool temperatures, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Summer (March to June)

Hot and humid, with temperatures soaring; it's advisable to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak hours.

Monsoon (July to September)

Heavy rainfall makes the landscape lush but travel can be disrupted; be prepared for possible flooding.

Post-Monsoon (October)

The weather becomes cooler and pleasant, making it a great time to visit festivals and enjoy the outdoors.

Nightlife Guide

Bihār at Night

Bihār's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to major metropolitan areas, with most activities centered around family-friendly restaurants and cultural performances. Patna has a few bars and lounges, but they tend to close early. Local events and festivals often feature traditional music and dance, providing a unique cultural experience in the evenings.

Hiking in Bihār

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rajgir Hills

A popular hiking destination with trails offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and ancient ruins.

Buddha Hill

Located near Bodh Gaya, this hill offers a serene hike with paths leading to Buddhist stupas and meditation centers.

Airports

How to reach Bihār by plane.

Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport

Located in Patna, this is the main airport serving the region, offering domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bihār's urban centers, especially Patna, are moderately walkable, with pedestrian-friendly areas in markets and parks. However, sidewalks are often crowded or poorly maintained, so caution is advised while walking. It's best to explore specific neighborhoods on foot but be prepared for some uneven surfaces.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bihari

The predominant ethnic group in Bihār, known for their rich cultural traditions and contributions to Indian history.

Mithila

A cultural group known for their unique art, language, and traditions, particularly in the Mithila region of Bihār.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is the most popular sport in Bihār, with many local teams and matches played at various levels.

Kabaddi

Kabaddi is traditionally played in rural and urban areas, with local tournaments attracting participants and spectators alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bihār, especially in Patna, can be congested, particularly during peak hours. Auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and buses are common forms of public transport, but they can be crowded. It's advisable to plan your travel during off-peak hours and use app-based cab services for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bihār.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Bihari cuisine is predominantly vegetarian, making it suitable for most dietary preferences.

Spicy Food

Dishes are often spicy; request milder versions if you have a low tolerance for heat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Bihār vary from urban to rural areas. Patna has several hospitals and clinics offering modern medical services, while rural areas may have limited access to healthcare. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance and carry necessary medications with them.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide