Munger Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Munger and discover the best attractions, activities, food and drink, and lodging options in the city. Read our comprehensive travel guide now!


Introduction to Munger

Munger, also known as Monghyr, is a city located in the Mithila region of Bihar. It is situated on the southern banks of the Ganges river and is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance. Munger is a great destination for those interested in history, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Munger

Munger has a wide range of attractions to explore, including museums, historical sites, natural attractions, and adventure activities. Here are some of the must-visit places in Munger:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Munger Fort: This ancient fort was built during the reign of the Gupta Empire and served as a strategic military base during the British Raj. The fort is now a major tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the Ganges river.

  • Bihar School of Yoga: This world-renowned institution offers yoga courses and retreats for people of all levels. The school also hosts a Yoga Festival every year, which attracts thousands of visitors from around the world.

  • Kastaharni Ghat: This historic site is believed to be the spot where the goddess Kastaharni appeared and defeated the demon Raktabija. It is a popular destination for pilgrims and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding hills.

Natural Attractions of Munger: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to a wide range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. Visitors can go on jeep safaris, bird watching tours, and trekking expeditions to explore the sanctuary.

  • Sita Kund: This natural hot spring is believed to have healing properties and is a popular destination for people seeking spiritual and physical rejuvenation. It is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a peaceful retreat from urban life.

  • Munger Ganga Bridge: This iconic bridge is the longest road-cum-rail bridge in India and offers stunning views of the Ganges river and surrounding areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Munger

Munger has several hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Some of the popular routes include the Munger-Deoghar Road, the Kharagpur Hills, and the Sita Kund Trek. Visitors can also rent bicycles and explore the city’s narrow lanes and alleys on their own.

Best Things to Do in Munger: Activities and Tours

  • River Cruises: Visitors can explore the Ganges river and its surroundings on a cruise. The cruises offer stunning views of the city’s historic buildings and natural beauty.

  • Yoga Courses and Retreats: Munger is home to several world-renowned yoga institutions, including the Bihar School of Yoga. Visitors can take yoga courses and retreats to learn the ancient art of yoga and spiritual practices.

  • Bird Watching Tours: Munger is home to a wide range of bird species, including eagles, hawks, and kingfishers. Visitors can go on bird watching tours to spot rare and exotic birds in their natural habitats.

Week-Long Itinerary for Munger

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Munger:

Day 1: Visit Munger Fort, Bihar School of Yoga, and Kastaharni Ghat.

Day 2: Trek to Sita Kund and Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary.

Day 3: Explore the city on a bicycle and try local street food.

Day 4: Take a river cruise and enjoy the scenic views of the Ganges river.

Day 5: Attend a yoga course or retreat at one of the city’s renowned yoga institutes.

Day 6: Visit nearby towns like Bhagalpur and Deoghar.

Day 7: Relax and soak up the local culture, enjoy local delicacies, and shop for souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Munger

Munger offers a wide range of local delicacies and beverages that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in the city:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Litti Chokha: This is a popular dish made with stuffed wheat balls and mashed potatoes.

  • Dal Pitha: This dish is made with lentil filling and is served with a spicy tomato chutney.

  • Murki Ladoo: This sweet is made with puffed rice and jaggery and has a crunchy texture.

Local Beverages

  • Sattu Sharbat: This refreshing drink is made with roasted gram flour, lemon, and sugar and is a popular summer beverage.

  • Thandai: This cooling drink is made with milk, almonds, and spices like cardamom and saffron.

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

Munger has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the popular options include:

  • Hotel Rajhans: This is a luxury hotel located near the city center and offers amenities like a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant.

  • Hotel Sita International: This mid-range hotel is located near the railway station and offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities.

  • Backpacker’s Den: This hostel is perfect for budget travelers and offers dormitory-style accommodation with basic amenities.

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

Munger is known for its handicrafts and traditional products, including:

  • Handloom saris and textiles

  • Terracotta pottery

  • Hand-carved wooden products

  • Brass items

Local Culture and Customs of Munger

Munger has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its music, dance, and art forms. The city is also home to several festivals and fairs, including the Chhath Puja and Holi. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions and dress modestly in public places.

Best Time to Visit Munger

The best time to visit Munger is during the winter months, between November and February. The weather is pleasant and comfortable during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Munger

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Dress modestly in public places.

  • Try local delicacies and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute public places.

  • Engage in any illegal or unethical activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Munger

Munger is generally a safe destination for tourists, but visitors are advised to take precautions like:

  • Be aware of pickpockets and thefts in crowded areas.

  • Avoid going out alone at night.

  • Always carry identification and emergency contact details.

Health in Munger

Visitors should take basic health precautions like:

  • Drink only bottled or filtered water.

  • Be aware of potential food-borne illnesses and choose reputable restaurants for dining.

  • Take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria.

Getting to Munger: Transportation Options and Logistics

Munger is well-connected to major cities in Bihar and other parts of India. Here are some of the transportation options available to visitors:

Airports Near Munger

The nearest airport to Munger is the Patna Airport, which is located around 200 km away. Visitors can take a taxi or bus from the airport to reach Munger.

Bus Stations Near Munger

Munger is connected to major cities in Bihar and other parts of India through a network of bus services. Visitors can take a bus from cities like Patna, Bhagalpur, and Ranchi to reach Munger.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train to reach Munger, as the city is well-connected to major cities in India by rail.

How to Get Around in Munger

Munger is a small city, and visitors can easily get around on foot or by bicycle. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Munger: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Munger is a great base for exploring nearby towns and attractions, including:

  • Bhagalpur: This historic city is located around 60 km away from Munger and is known for its silk industry and historic sites like the Colganj rock-cut temple.

  • Deoghar: This is a popular pilgrimage site located around 150 km away from Munger. It is home to the famous Baba Baidyanath Temple and offers stunning views of the hills and forests.

Conclusion

Munger is a destination that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient forts and museums, going on hiking and biking trails, or trying local delicacies and beverages, Munger has something for everyone. Plan your trip now and discover the wonders of Bihar’s hidden gem!