Bhagalpur Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and how to get around in Bhagalpur, India. Explore its rich culture, history, and natural attractions with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Bhagalpur

Bhagalpur, located in the Mithila region of Bihar, is a city that brims with life and culture. It has a rich history that dates back to the Mauryan period, and it played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence. Bhagalpur is known for its silk production, and its famous tussar silk sarees are a must-buy for any visitor. This bustling city is situated on the banks of the river Ganges, which makes it a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus.

List of Places to Visit in Bhagalpur

Bhagalpur has many attractions that cater to different interests. Here are some of the popular places to visit in Bhagalpur:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Vikramshila University: This was once an important centre of Buddhist learning, and is now an archaeological site that is worth exploring.
  • Colganj Rock Cut Temples: These ancient rock-cut temples, dating back to the Gupta period, are a noteworthy architectural marvel and are worth a visit.
  • Bihar School of Yoga: This school is renowned for its contribution to the field of yoga and is frequented by yoga practitioners from across the world.
  • Bhagalpur Museum: This museum houses an extensive collection of artefacts that showcase the history and culture of the region.

Natural Attractions of Bhagalpur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sultanganj: This small town, located on the banks of the Ganges, is known for its beautiful views and is a popular spot for picnics.
  • Mandar Hill: This hill, located 50 km from Bhagalpur, is a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus and Jains. The trek up the hill is challenging but rewarding, and the view from the top is breathtaking.
  • Bateshwar Nath Temple: This temple, located on the bank of the river Ganges, is a popular pilgrimage spot and surrounded by lush green forests. Visitors can enjoy a calm and peaceful walk through the forest and explore the beauty of nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bhagalpur

If you enjoy hiking or biking, there are several routes in Bhagalpur that you can explore:

  • Vikramshila to Kahalgaon: This route is 36 km long, and will take you through beautiful landscapes and historical sites.
  • Bhagalpur to Sultanganj: This 15-km route takes you along the Ganges and offers stunning views of the river.
  • Mandar Hill Trek: This trek is challenging, but the view from the top is worth it.

Best Things to Do in Bhagalpur: Activities and Tours

Bhagalpur offers a range of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Bhagalpur:

  • Take a boat ride on the Ganges and watch the sunrise or sunset.
  • Explore the silk production process and buy some tussar silk sarees.
  • Venture into the forests of Mandar Hill for a trekking adventure.
  • Attend a yoga class at the Bihar School of Yoga.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bhagalpur

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring Bhagalpur:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Vikramshila University and the Rock Cut Temples.
Day 2 Take a boat ride on the Ganges and visit the Sultanganj Temple.
Day 3 Visit the Bhagalpur Museum and explore the silk production process.
Day 4 Trek up Mandar Hill and visit the Bateshwar Nath Temple.
Day 5 Attend a yoga class at the Bihar School of Yoga.
Day 6 Relax and enjoy the local cuisine.
Day 7 Explore the nearby town of Kahalgaon.

Food and Drink Scene of Bhagalpur

Bhagalpur has a rich culinary heritage that boasts of delicious street food and local delicacies. Make sure to try the following dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Litti Chokha: A savoury dish made of wheat and gram flour that is served with a spicy mashed vegetable dish made of potatoes, brinjal, and tomatoes.
  • Sattu Paratha: A paratha filled with sattu, a mixture of roasted gram flour, spices, and onions.
  • Chhena Murki: A sweet dish made of chhena, a type of cottage cheese, that is soaked in sugar syrup and flavoured with cardamom and saffron.

Local Beverages

  • Thandai: A cold milk-based drink flavoured with dry fruits, rose petals, and saffron.
  • Aam Panna: A refreshing drink made of green mangoes and flavoured with mint, cumin, salt, and sugar.

Where to Stay in Bhagalpur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bhagalpur has a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets. Here are some of the recommended places to stay:

  • Hotel Rajhans International: A comfortable and affordable hotel situated in the heart of the city. It offers modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service.
  • Hotel Jyoti: A budget-friendly hotel that is ideal for backpackers and solo travellers. It offers clean and basic rooms with comfortable beds.
  • Hotel Royal Plaza: A luxurious hotel that offers spacious rooms, a spa, a fitness centre, and an outdoor swimming pool.

What to Buy in Bhagalpur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bhagalpur is known for its silk production, and the famous tussar silk sarees make for great souvenirs. Other souvenirs and local products to bring home include:

  • Madhubani Paintings: These vibrant and colourful paintings are a unique art form, and showcase the rich culture of the region.
  • Bhagalpuri Silk Dupattas: These dupattas are made of light and airy silk, and are perfect for the summers.
  • Handmade Pottery: Bhagalpur boasts of a rich pottery tradition, and the handmade pottery pieces are beautiful and functional.

Local Culture and Customs of Bhagalpur

Bhagalpur is known for its festivals and cultural traditions. Some of the important festivals celebrated in Bhagalpur include:

  • Chhath Puja: A festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, and is celebrated with fasting, prayers, and offerings made to the deity.
  • Makar Sankranti: A harvest festival celebrated in January, where people gather on the banks of the Ganges to take a dip in the river and offer prayers.
  • Holi: A festival of colours, where people smear each other with colours and distribute sweets and savouries.

Best Time to Visit Bhagalpur

The best time to visit Bhagalpur is between October and February, when the weather is pleasant and cool. The summers can be hot and humid, while the monsoons can be erratic and cause disruptions in sightseeing activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bhagalpur

Do:

  • Dress modestly, and respect the local culture and customs.
  • Carry cash, as several places don’t accept credit cards.
  • Learn a few phrases in Hindi, as it will help you communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or pollute the environment.
  • Don’t take photographs without seeking permission, especially in religious sites.
  • Don’t be disrespectful to the local culture and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bhagalpur

Bhagalpur is generally a safe city, but it’s always advisable to take precautions. Here are some safety tips:

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive jewellery.
  • Be cautious while travelling at night.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid getting into arguments or fights.

Health in Bhagalpur

Bhagalpur is a relatively healthy city, but it’s always advisable to take precautions:

  • Drink only bottled water, and avoid consuming street food.
  • Carry mosquito repellent and use it at all times, as the region is known for malaria and dengue fever.
  • Carry a first-aid kit with common medications, band-aids, and antiseptics.

Getting to Bhagalpur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bhagalpur is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here are the different options you can explore:

Airports Near Bhagalpur

The nearest airport to Bhagalpur is the Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport in Patna, which is 185 km away.

Bus Stations Near Bhagalpur

Bhagalpur has a bus station that offers regular bus services to other cities in Bihar and neighbouring states.

Other Options

Trains are the easiest and most convenient mode of transport to reach Bhagalpur. Bhagalpur Junction is well-connected to many cities across India.

How to Get Around in Bhagalpur

Bhagalpur is a small city, and most of the tourist attractions are located within a 10-km radius. Autos, taxis, and cycle-rickshaws are readily available for local transport. Hiring a car or bike is also an option, but it can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Bhagalpur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bhagalpur is surrounded by several destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the nearby destinations that you can visit:

  • Rajgir: A city known for its hot springs, temples, and historical sites.
  • Nalanda: A city that was once an important centre of learning and Buddhism.
  • Bodh Gaya: A city that is revered by Buddhists as the place where Buddha attained enlightenment.

Conclusion

Bhagalpur is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. From ancient rock-cut temples to beautiful hill treks, Bhagalpur has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can explore the best places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and how to get around in Bhagalpur. Experience the rich culture and heritage of Bihar with a trip to Bhagalpur.

Vikrama Shila Monastery Vikrama Shila Monastery ''Litti'' is baked wheat and lentils served with smoked tomato ketchup, brinjal, mango pickle and onions. ''Litti'' is baked wheat and lentils served with smoked tomato ketchup, brinjal, mango pickle and onions.