Bihar Sharif Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bihar Sharif with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the culturally important museums and historical places, natural attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Bihar Sharif

Bihar Sharif, situated in the Magadha region of the Indian state of Bihar, is a city rich in history and culture. The city has significant historical importance as it was the capital of the Magadha Empire and is home to numerous historic structures and sacred sites. It is a perfect place for those interested in history, architecture, culture, and spirituality.

List of Places to Visit in Bihar Sharif

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bihar Sharif is home to many museums and historical places that are worth visiting. Some of the top attractions include:

  • (1) Barabar Caves: These are a group of ancient rock-cut caves situated in Barabar Hills, about 25km from Bihar Sharif. These caves dating back to the Mauryan period hold importance in Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism.
  • (2) Nalanda University: It is one of the oldest universities in the world and represented the highest level of formal education during the ancient era. The ruins of this university, with its ancient architectures, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located around 15km from Bihar Sharif.
  • (3) Pawapuri: The sacred city of Pawapuri is a significant pilgrimage site for Jains. The city houses the holy temple of Lord Mahavira, where he took his last breath.
  • (4) Shree Sita Ram Upadhyaya Museum: The museum located in Pavapuri is notable for its collection of old manuscripts and historical documents related to Jainism

Natural Attractions of Bihar Sharif: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Apart from the historical sites, Bihar Sharif has some breathtaking natural beauty that is refreshing to explore. Here are the must-visit natural attractions:

  • (1) Rajgir: Located about 15km from Bihar Sharif, Rajgir is a beautiful town situated in the valley surrounded by lush green forests and hills. It is a popular destination known for the hot springs, beautiful temples, and breathtaking scenery.
  • (2) Nalanda Hills: These hills are famous for their scenic beauty and are an ideal location for picnics and hiking.
  • (3) Bihar mining area: A perfect place for birdwatchers and nature lovers, the mining area has surprisingly become a bird sanctuary with a wide variety of migrating birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bihar Sharif

Bihar Sharif has some beautiful hiking and biking routes set amid picturesque sceneries. The popular ones include:

  • (1) Rajgir to Nalanda: The scenic route between Rajgir to Nalanda passes through a valley covered with lush greenery and ancient ruins, and it’s ideal for hiking, biking, or driving.
  • (2) Pawapuri: The roads around Pawapuri provide the perfect opportunity for a peaceful and scenic bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Bihar Sharif: Activities and Tours

Bihar Sharif has an abundance of things to do, and the must-do items include:

  • (1) Visit the historical sites: Explore the historical sites, like Nalanda University, Barabar Caves, and others.
  • (2) Attend festivals: Bihar Sharif is known for celebrating various festivals, like Holi, Chhath Puja, and Mahavir Jayanti, where you can witness the vibrant and colorful culture of the city.
  • (3) Meditate in Pawapuri: Pawapuri is an excellent place for meditation and introspection, and you can also go boating in the nearby lake.
  • (4) Learn something new: Nalanda University is known for its scholarship, and one can attend various lectures and classes for an enriching experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bihar Sharif

Here is our suggested itinerary for adventure seekers who are willing to travel fpr a week:

Day Activity
1 visit Barabar Caves, and Mahavir temple
2 explore Nalanda historical Places, visit Hiuen Tsang Monastery
3 a day trip at Pawapuri and the beautiful Ghora Katora Lake
4 visit Rajgir and check out the ancient sites and hot springs
5 take the peaceful bike ride around Bihar Sharif
6 explore Bihar Sharif city, and learn about the local culture and cuisine
7 plan your visit to nearby cities like Bodh Gaya, Patna, and others

Food and Drink Scene of Bihar Sharif

Bihar Sharif offers a mixed cuisine that consists of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Here are the must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • (1) Litti-Chokha: A combination of flour balls stuffed with sattu and served with a side of mashed potatoes.
  • (2) Kadhai chicken: A spicy and lip-smacking curry that is a perfect blend of spices and chicken.
  • (3) Sattu Drink: A refreshing drink made of roasted gram flour and buttermilk or raw mango.
  • (4) Dalpuri: A popular breakfast item - stuffed puri served with vegetable curry or chutney.

Local Beverages

Bihar Sharif’s most famous beverage is the sugarcane juice available in various shops across the city. Bihar Sharif is also home to various local vendors selling lassi and other refreshing drinks.

Where to Stay in Bihar Sharif: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bihar Sharif offers various accommodation options to fit different budgets and preferences, from hotels to guesthouses. The top ones include:

  • (1) Hotel Heritage Bodhgaya: A beautiful luxury hotel situated in Bodhgaya, offering one of the finest accommodation options in the city.
  • (2) Nalanda Regency: A great value for money hotel located just a few minutes’ walk from the Nalanda University site.
  • (3) Buddha Heritage: A great mid-range option that provides comfort and delicious food to its guests.
  • (4) Guest house in Pawapuri: A simple and beautiful option tucked away in nature, providing scenic views and a peaceful environment.

What to Buy in Bihar Sharif: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The city is famous for its handicrafts, wood and metal carvings, paintings, and artifacts. The notable souvenirs and products include:

  • (1) Madhubani Paintings: beautiful paintings that showcase intricate patterns and bright colors of Indian art.
  • (2) Handicrafts and wood carvings: beautiful decor items and artifacts that are made of wood by skilled artisans.
  • (3) Bihar silk Sarees: The sarees are famous for their authenticity, intricate work, and colorful designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Bihar Sharif

Bihar Sharif is a culturally rich city, and the locals are friendly and hospitable. Some of the customs and norms include:

  • (1) Dress modestly: Bihar Sharif is a conservative city, and dressing modestly is important to show respect to the local culture.
  • (2) Remove footwear before entering temples: It is customary to remove footwear before entering any religious site in Bihar Sharif.
  • (3) Greet with “Namaste”: Greeting people with “Namaste” is a customary way of showing respect to elders and locals.

Best Time to Visit Bihar Sharif

The best time to visit Bihar Sharif is between October and February when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bihar Sharif

Do:

  • (1) Do respect the customs and norms of the locals.
  • (2) Do learn the local language to communicate better with the locals.
  • (3) Do try out the local cuisine, especially Litti-Chokha and Sattu drink.

Don’t:

  • (1) Don’t wear revealing or tight clothing.
  • (2) Don’t litter in public places.
  • (3) Don’t disrespect the beliefs of the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bihar Sharif

Bihar Sharif is a safe place to visit, with a low crime rate. However, it is always advisable to take some precautions like:

  • (1) Do not walk alone on deserted streets at night
  • (2) Do not carry too much cash or valuables

Health in Bihar Sharif

It is always recommended to carry necessary medicines and consult a doctor before the trip. The water in Bihar Sharif is not always safe, so it’s best to stick to bottled water and avoid raw street food that may be contaminated.

Getting to Bihar Sharif: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bihar Sharif is well-connected by air, rail, and road.

Airports Near Bihar Sharif

The nearest airport is Gaya International Airport, located around 60km from the city.

Bus Stations Near Bihar Sharif

Bihar Sharif has a bus stand located on the NH 31 that connects it to other major cities like Kolkata, Patna, and others.

Other Options

The city has an excellent rail network, and many trains pass through Bihar Sharif railway station.

How to Get Around in Bihar Sharif

The city has several transportation options, including auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses, making it easy to get around the city and nearby areas.

Where to Go Next from Bihar Sharif: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bihar Sharif is surrounded by many other destinations that are worth exploring. Here are a few suggestions:

  • (1) Bodh Gaya: A sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site, located around 75km from Bihar Sharif.
  • (2) Patna: The capital city of Bihar, located around 90km from Bihar Sharif, famous for its history and culture.
  • (3) Rajendra Pul: A famous dam located about 6km from the city, situated amidst picturesque sceneries.
  • (4) Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary: Located around 80 km from the city, the sanctuary is home to rare and endemic species of plants and animals, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Bihar Sharif is a place that has so much to offer. With its unique culture, sprawling history, and natural beauty, it’s a must-visit destination for explorers and history buffs. Plan your trip to Bihar Sharif now and experience the beauty of this extraordinary city.

Badi Dargah, Bihar Sharif Badi Dargah, Bihar Sharif ''Litti chicken'' is made with wheat, lentils and chicken. ''Litti chicken'' is made with wheat, lentils and chicken.