Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves Travel Guide

Your comprehensive travel guide to Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves in Bihar, India including information on cultural attractions, natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, accommodations, local culture, safety and health, transportation options and nearby destinations.


Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves Travel Guide

Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves are located in the Magadha district of Bihar in India. These caves are a unique attraction for tourists who want to experience the rich history and culture of India. The Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves are ancient rock-cut caves that date back to the Mauryan period. The caves are located in the Satpura Range, which is a part of the Eastern Ghats in India. This travel guide will help you plan your visit to Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves.

Introduction to Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

The Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves are a complex of rock-cut caves that were used by ascetics from the 3rd century BCE to the 1st century CE. The caves are believed to have been used as meditation chambers by these ascetics. The caves are also known for their inscriptions, which have given insight into the language and culture of the Mauryan period. The caves are made of granite and have a unique architecture with polished walls and a high ceiling.

List of Places to Visit in Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

The following is a list of places that you should not miss during your trip to Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ashoka Pillar: The Ashoka Pillar is a 9-foot tall monolithic pillar with an inscription of Ashoka. It is located at the entrance of the Lomas Rishi cave.
  • Barabar Caves: The Barabar Caves consist of four rock-cut caves. These are the Karan Chaupar, Lomas Rishi, Sudama, and Visva Zopri caves.
  • Nagarjuni Hill Caves: The Nagarjuni Hill Caves are a group of rock-cut caves that have inscriptions in Pali.

Natural Attractions of Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tawa-Tawa: Tawa-Tawa is a narrow trail that leads to the top of a hill. The trail is surrounded by lush greenery and provides beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
  • Phulwari Ki Nal: Phulwari Ki Nal is a natural stream that flows through the hills. It is a beautiful spot for picnics and relaxation.
  • Phulwari Ki Nal Waterfall: The Phulwari Ki Nal waterfall is a small waterfall that is located close to the natural stream.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

The following are some hiking and biking routes that you can take during your trip to Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves:

  • Barabar Hill Trek: This trek takes you to the top of Barabar Hill. The trek is challenging, but it offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
  • Nagarjuni Hill Trek: The Nagarjuni Hill Trek takes you to the top of Nagarjuni Hill. This trek is moderately challenging and provides scenic views of the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves: Activities and Tours

The following are some activities and tours that you can experience during your trip to Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves:

  • Temple Tour: Visit the various temples in the area including Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Ghau Ghat and Manjushree Park
  • Rock Climbing: Experience the thrill of rock climbing at Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves
  • Archaeological Tour: Get a historical and cultural understanding of the area with an archaeological tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

Day 1: Arrive in Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves
Day 2: Visit Ashoka Pillar, Lomas Rishi Cave and the Karan Chaupar Cave
Day 3: Visit Visva Zopri Cave, Sudama Cave and Nagarjuni Hill Caves
Day 4: Experience the Tawa-Tawa Trail and visit Phulwari Ki Nal Waterfall
Day 5: Go rock climbing and visit local temples
Day 6: Take an archaeological tour of the area
Day 7: Depart from Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

Food and Drink Scene of Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

When it comes to food, Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves has plenty of options for you to try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Litti Chokha: A dish made with sattu flour and stuffed with spicy mashed potatoes that is roasted over coal and served with ghee
  • Dal Puri: A delicious fried flatbread that is stuffed with dal and served with spicy chutney
  • Khaja: A sweet made with flour and sugar that is deep-fried and served with sugar syrup

Local Beverages

  • Chai: The classic Indian tea flavoured with spices and milk
  • Sattu: A drink made with sattu flour mixed with water and flavoured with spices

Where to Stay in Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The following are some great options for accommodation during your stay in Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves:

  • Hotel Heritage Bodh Gaya: This hotel is located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar and offers comfortable and modern amenities
  • Hotel Sujata: Located in Rajgir, Bihar, this hotel is surrounded by gardens and offers a peaceful atmosphere
  • Hotel Sky Rich International: This hotel is located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar and offers modern amenities including an outdoor pool

What to Buy in Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to souvenirs, Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves has plenty of options for you to choose from, including:

  • Bihar Handlooms: Buy locally made handicrafts and handlooms woven by local artisans
  • Sonepur Silk: A fabric made from a special type of silk that is unique to Sonepur in Bihar

Local Culture and Customs of Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

The local culture and customs of Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves are heavily influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism. Visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting temples and sacred sites. It is also customary to take off your shoes before entering temples and other holy places.

Best Time to Visit Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

The best time to visit Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves is during the winter months from November to February. The weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the caves and surrounding areas.

Do’s and Don’ts of Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

Do:

  • Dress modestly
  • Take off your shoes before entering holy places
  • Respect the local culture and customs

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without their permission
  • Disrespect local customs and beliefs
  • Ignore safety rules and signs

Safety and Health

Safety in Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves are generally safe for tourists. However, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take proper safety precautions when exploring the caves and surrounding areas.

Health in Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

It is important to take precautions against mosquito bites when visiting Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves as malaria and dengue fever are prevalent in the area. It is also important to stay hydrated and use sunscreen when exploring the caves in the hot and sunny weather.

Getting to Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves: Transportation Options and Logistics

The following are some transportation options for reaching Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves:

Airports Near Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

  • Gaya Airport: This airport is located in Gaya, Bihar and is approximately 60 km away from Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves.
  • Patna Airport: This airport is located in Patna, Bihar and is approximately 110 km away from Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves.

Bus Stations Near Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

  • Gaya Bus Stand: This bus stand is located in Gaya, Bihar and is the nearest bus stand to Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves.
  • Patna Bus Stand: This bus stand is located in Patna, Bihar and offers frequent buses to Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves.

Other Options

  • Taxis: Taxis are available from Gaya and Patna to Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves.

How to Get Around in Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves

The best way to get around Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves is by hiring a private taxi or an auto-rickshaw. It is also possible to explore the area on foot or by renting a bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The following are some nearby destinations that you can explore after your visit to Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves:

  • Bodh Gaya: Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and explore the surrounding temples and attractions in this important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
  • Rajgir: Visit the Nalanda University ruins, witness the largest stupa in India and the Mauryan-era Venuvana monastery.
  • Patna: While in the capital city of Bihar, the must-visit attractions include Golghar Monument, Pataliputra Karuna Stupa, and the state’s museum with an extensive collection of artefacts.

Conclusion

Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves are an incredible destination for history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural scenery, this unique destination should be on every traveller’s bucket list. Plan your trip carefully and enjoy the beauty and wonder of Barabar and Nagarjuni Hill Caves!

Barabar Halt railway station Barabar Halt railway station Tomb of Payava and Lomas Rishi cave entrance Tomb of Payava and Lomas Rishi cave entrance Gopika Cave Inscription Gopika Cave Inscription