Top 10 Historical Places to Visit in Bihar

Bihar is one of the oldest inhabited places in the world. This land is a treasure trove of history, culture and spirituality. Famous as the birthplace of Buddha and Mahavira, Bihar was once home to ancient empires, scholars and saints who shaped India’s past. From Buddhist monasteries to Mughal architecture, it has it all, making it a treasure trove for history buffs. In this article, we will know about the top 10 historical places to visit in Bihar that every traveler should visit at least once in their lifetime.

Top 10 Historical Places to Visit in Bihar, Overview:

Bihar is often overlooked in terms of travel. But the truth is, the historical places in this state tell a silent tale of India’s past glory. From famous places like Nalanda and Bodh Gaya to lesser-known gems like caves and Rohtasgarh Fort, Bihar is full of spirituality, magnificent architecture, and a rich cultural touch. In this article, we will know about the top 10 historical places to visit in Bihar that every traveler should visit at least once in their lifetime.

1. Nalanda University

Founded in the 5th century AD, Nalanda was one of the oldest universities in the world. Scholars from as far away as China, Tibet, and Southeast Asia once came to study here. Although it lies in ruins today, Nalanda still tells the story of a golden age of ancient learning in India.

Entry Fee & Timings:

• Entry Fee: INR 15 (Indians), INR 200 (Foreigners), & Video camera charges INR 25.
• Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed Fridays).

Top Attractions:

• Ruins of Monasteries and Stupas.
• Nalanda Archaeological Museum.
• Xuan Zang Memorial Hall.

How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Rajgir (12 km), and airport is Patna Airport (89 km).

Location: Nalanda District, Bihar.

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2. Bodh Gaya

Bodh Gaya is one of the holiest places for Buddhists. It is here that Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree and became the Buddha.

Entry Fee & Timings:

• Entry Fee: Free (Mahabodhi Temple)
• Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM

Top Attractions:

• Mahabodhi Temple (UNESCO site).
• Bodhi Tree.
• Great Buddha Statue.
• International Monasteries.

How to Reach: Gaya railway station (12 km), Gaya Airport (7 km).

Location: Gaya District, Bihar.

3. Rajgir

Before Pataliputra, Rajgir was the capital of Magadha. Both Gautam Buddha and Mahavira spent time here. Surrounded by mountains and hot springs, this city is a wonderful meeting point of history and nature.

Entry Fee & Timings:

• Entry Fee: Free (most sites), Ropeway ₹80 approx.
• Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

Top Attractions:

• Griddhakuta Hill (Vulture’s Peak).
• Vishwa Shanti Stupa.
• Ajatshatru Fort.
• Hot Springs.

How to Reach: Nearest railway station Rajgir, Patna Airport 100 km away.

Location: Nalanda District, Bihar.

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4. Vikramshila University

King Dharmapala founded Vikramshila University in the 8th century. Like Nalanda, it was a prestigious center of learning, with a strong emphasis on Tantric Buddhism. Its ruins still stand today as a testament to the glory of ancient Indian learning.

Entry Fee & Timings:

• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: Sunrise to Sunset

Top Attractions:

• Central Monastery Ruins.
• Vikramshila Museum.
• Terracotta Plaques.

How to Reach: Bhagalpur railway station (50 km), Patna Airport (281 km)..

Location: Antichak Village, Bhagalpur District, Bihar.

5. Vaishali – World’s First Republic

Vaishali was the center of the world’s first democratic republic in the 6th century BCE. It was here that Gautama Buddha delivered his last sermon, and it was in this city that Lord Mahavira was born.

Entry Fee & Timings:

• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

Top Attractions:

• Ashokan Pillar
• Buddha Stupa
• Vaishali Museum
• Abhishek Pushkarini Tank

How to Reach: Hajipur railway station (35 km), Patna Airport (55 km).

Location: Vaishali District, Bihar.

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6. Sher Shah Suri Tomb

This massive tomb in Sasaram was built for Sher Shah Suri, the Afghan ruler and founder of the Suri Empire, in 1545. It is built of red sandstone in the middle of a lake, which from a distance appears to be floating on water.

Entry Fee & Timings:

• Entry Fee: ₹15 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)
• Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

Top Attractions:

• Main Tomb with massive dome.
• Indo-Islamic architecture.
• Lake surrounding the structure.

How to Reach: Nearest railway station Sasaram (2 km), Patna Airport (160 km).

Location: Sasaram, Rohtas District, Bihar.

7. Pawapuri

Pawapuri is the holy place where Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, attained Nirvana. The water temple here is a serene and beautiful marble temple standing in the middle of a pond filled with lotus flowers.

Entry Fee & Timings:

• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM

Top Attractions:

• Jal Mandir (Water Temple)
• Gaon Mandir
• Lotus Pond

How to Reach: Nearest railway station Rajgir (30 km), Patna Airport (95 km).

Location: Nalanda District, Bihar.

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8. Barabar Caves

The Barabar Caves were built during the Mauryan period (3rd century BCE) and are the oldest rock-cut caves in India. Initially built for the Ajivika sect, they later had a major influence on Buddhist cave architecture.

Entry Fee & Timings:

• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

Top Attractions:

• Lomas Rishi Cave
• Sudama Cave with Ashokan inscriptions
• Echo chambers

How to Reach: Gaya railway station (25 km), Gaya Airport (40 km).

Location: Jehanabad District, near Gaya, Bihar.

9. Kesariya Stupa

The Kesariya Stupa is said to be the tallest Buddhist stupa in the world. It is believed that it was here that the Buddha gave his disciples alms bowls before his Mahaparinirvana.

Entry Fee & Timings:

• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: Sunrise to Sunset

Top Attractions:

• Massive Stupa structure.
• Terraces with Buddha statues.
• Archaeological relics.

How to Reach: Nearest railway station Motihari (55 km), Patna Airport (120 km).

Location: Champaran District, Bihar.

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10. Rohtasgarh Fort

Rohtasgarh Fort, perched atop the Kaimur Hills, was once under the rule of Sher Shah Suri. Spread over an area of about 30 km, the fort houses palaces, temples and a grand gateway, although many parts have now fallen into ruins.

Entry Fee & Timings:

• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

Top Attractions:

• Hathiya Pol (Elephant Gate)
• Aina Mahal (Mirror Palace)
• Old mosques and temples
• Hilltop views

How to Reach: Nearest railway station Sasaram (39 km), Patna Airport (150 km). Trekking required.

Location: Rohtas District, Bihar.

FAQs

1. Which is the most famous historical site in Bihar?
Bodh Gaya and Nalanda are the most famous and globally recognized sites.

2. Do I need tickets for all sites?
Most sites are free, but some like Nalanda ruins and Sher Shah Suri Tomb have nominal entry fees.

3. What’s the best time to visit Bihar?
October to March is ideal, as the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.

4. Are these places well connected?
Yes, most sites are accessible by rail and road from Patna, Gaya, and Bhagalpur.

5. Is Bihar safe for tourists?
Yes, Bihar is safe for tourists, especially in popular heritage destinations. Just follow standard travel precautions.

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