Things To Do
in Bihār
Bihar is a historically rich state in eastern India that sits along the Ganges and hosts a tapestry of ancient sites, bustling markets, and fertile plains. Its cities—Patna, Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, and Rajgir—serve as anchors for religion, learning, and culture. The pace ranges from riverfront strolls to forested hills and archaeological ruins, offering a mix of spirituality, cuisine, and wildlife.
Visitors are drawn by centuries of civilization, spectacular temples, and the warm hospitality of the people.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful meditation session at the Mahabodhi Temple, where the Buddha attained enlightenment. Spend time observing the serene atmosphere as monks chant and visitors meditate under the sacred Bodhi tree. Take a moment to appreciate the intricate architecture and the historical significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After lunch, visit the various monasteries built by different countries, each showcasing unique architectural styles and cultural influences. Engage with the monks and learn about their traditions and practices while exploring the tranquil gardens surrounding the temples. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in a guided tour that takes you through the rich history of Buddhism in the region.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through the temple complex, observing the beautiful lights illuminating the structures. Sit by the reflecting pool and enjoy the peaceful ambiance as the day winds down. Conclude your evening with a traditional vegetarian meal at a local eatery, savoring the flavors of Bihari cuisine.
Begin your journey in Patna by visiting the historic Golghar, an impressive granary built in the 18th century, offering panoramic views of the city. Climb the winding stairs to the top and enjoy the morning light illuminating the Ganges River. Take some time to explore the nearby bustling markets, filled with local handicrafts and fresh produce.
After lunch, head to the Patna Museum to delve into the rich history of Bihar, featuring ancient artifacts, sculptures, and paintings. Spend time marveling at the detailed exhibits and learning about the region's significant contributions to Indian history. Next, visit the iconic Mahatma Gandhi Setu, one of the longest river bridges in India, to capture stunning views of the Ganges.
As dusk approaches, find a riverside café to enjoy a relaxing cup of chai while watching the sunset over the Ganges. Engage in conversations with locals who share stories about Patna's vibrant culture and history. Conclude your evening with a delightful dinner at a renowned restaurant, sampling local specialties such as Litti Chokha.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚎Local transportation (one-way) | $0.30-1 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel or hostel per night | $8-20 |
| 📶Local SIM card data plan | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and religious sites across multiple cities
- Affordable travel with excellent regional cuisine
- Rural areas can have limited English signage and services
- Traffic congestion in Patna and some urban areas; limited nightlife in most parts
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Aap kaise ho?" - How are you?
- "Mujhe Bihar ghoomna hai" - I want to travel in Bihar
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Bihār
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic UNESCO site with golden stupa, Bodhi tree, and tranquil courtyards ideal for morning and golden-hour photography.
Expansive ancient university grounds revealing stone fragments, monasteries, and temple remnants—great for wide architectural shots.
Rolling green hills and viewpoints with ancient ruins like Vishwa Shanti Stupa; ideal for landscape and sunset photography.
Historic city square with open spaces, colonial-era structures, and busy local life—good for street and candid photography.
Food in Bihār
Bihār Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Charred whole-wheat dough balls stuffed with sattu flour, served with mashed roasted vegetables (chokha) and ghee or butter.
Must-Try!
Parathas stuffed with spiced roasted gram flour (sattu), often served with green chutney and pickles.
Steamed dumplings filled with spiced lentil paste, typically enjoyed with ghee and accompaniment of chutneys.
Crunchy wheat- and jaggery-based cookies, a festive favorite especially during Chhath Puja.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively cluster of stalls offering litti chokha, chaat, samosas, and sweets late into the evening.
Local market lanes where you can sample seasonal snacks, fruits, and quick bites amid everyday commerce.
Stalls and small eateries near the historic gurdwara offering vegetarian-friendly options and regionally flavored snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in religious sites; cover shoulders and knees. Use 'Namaste' or a polite greeting when addressing elders.
Ask for permission before photographing people or sacred areas; remove shoes in many temples and respect local norms.
Safety
Tipping in Bihār
Ensure a smooth experience
In hotels and larger restaurants, a tip of about 5-10% is appreciated. In street stalls and small eateries, tips are casual and discretionary.
Cash is widely accepted in both cities and rural areas; cards are common in urban establishments, and mobile wallets are increasingly popular in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to June brings high heat (often above 40°C). Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and visit outdoor sites early in the morning.
July to September brings heavy rains and high humidity. Monsoon showers can make trails slippery; pack a rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
October to February offers cooler, pleasant days with cool nights. This is a peak travel period with comfortable outdoor sightseeing.
Bihār at Night
Hiking in Bihār
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hills near Rajgir with forest trails and viewpoints suitable for day hikes.
Scenic forested trails and wildlife areas near Sasaram, offering longer treks and nature photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Bihār by plane.
PAT; Patna's main international airport with domestic and limited international connections, connected to major Indian cities and several regional hubs.
GAY; Serves Bodh Gaya and nearby regions with domestic flights and some international connections via hub cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse group including speakers of Bhojpuri, Magahi, and Maithili; religions primarily Hindu and Muslim; strong sense of regional identity and hospitality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local matches and big crowds during major tournaments.
Widely played in schools and urban neighborhoods; local leagues and informal games are common.
Traditional contact sport with regional leagues and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bihār.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant; look for dal, paneer, chana, and chokha-based dishes; inform kitchens about dairy or ghee if needed.