From Ancient Ruins to Spiritual Sanctuaries: Top 10 best tourist places in Bihar
Updated: May 21, 2025
Seeking the best places to visit in Bihar? Look no further! Welcome to Bihar, a land steeped in rich culture and heritage. From the vibrant city of Patna, a prime honeymoon location in India, to the tranquil retreat of Pawapuri, the state offers experiences for all. Join us as we delve into Bihar´s top attractions, including Patna´s historical landmarks, exciting activities, Bodh Gaya, where Buddha achieved enlightenment, the Nalanda University ruins, the archaeological sites of Vaishali, the culinary delights of Bhagalpur, Madhubani paintings, agri-tourism opportunities in Muzaffarpur, and the sacred haven of Pawapuri.
Whether you´re a history enthusiast or an adventurous spirit, Bihar caters to all. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and prepare to explore the top 10 best tourist places in Bihar
Welcome to Bihar, a land of rich culture and heritage
Things to know before visiting Bihar
Best time to visit Bihar
Bihar has hot summer weather, which lasts from March to June. The best time to visit Bihar is after the monsoon or before the summer, which is from October to March.
Is it safe to travel to Bihar?
Yes, should be aware of potential safety concerns. Increased caution is crucial regarding crime, particularly petty theft and scams. Awareness of general Indian safety advisories, which might include concerns about terrorism and civil unrest, remains important, though Bihar´s specific risk level may not differ significantly from other regions. Road travel can be challenging, and extra vigilance, especially at night, is recommended.
Female travelers should take heightened precautions and consider traveling in groups. The Bihar police have launched a "Safe Travel" program to support solo women. Staying informed about local conditions, avoiding remote areas, and respecting local customs are crucial for a positive and safe experience. While risks exist, informed travelers who take appropriate precautions can enjoy a safer visit to Bihar.
How To Reach Bihar
Planning A Trip To Bihar? Here are some guidelines on how to reach Bihar
By Road
Patna has a good road network. The NH31 passes through Patna and Danapur, with its spurs leading to Barauni and Nawada. There is good road connectivity between South Bihar and North Bihar. The roads leading to Patna are well connected to Bodh Gaya and Rajgir as well as Ranchi and Siliguri. Therefore, one can easily drive to Patna from Delhi if desired. Tourists can also use Bihar's good road network to travel within the state.
By Rail
Patna also has a well-developed railway network that connects it to Delhi, Mumbai, and several cities like Guwahati, Kolkata, Bangalore, Varanasi, and Chennai. Therefore, people can travel to Patna by train from all over the country. In Bihar, there are multiple railway stations besides Patna, such as Gaya, Samastipur, Nalanda, and Barauni. Therefore, tourists can easily move around Bihar by train using the well-developed railway network of the state.
By Air
Bihar has quite a few airports in the state, such as Gaya (International Airport), Patna, Mungur, Jogbani, Muzapparpur and Raxaul, in addition to a few airports used by the defense sector. These airports allow tourists to fly into Bihar completely freely and then travel to other cities by road or rail. International travelers can fly to Gaya or Delhi and then fly to Patna, which is very convenient.
Find out the best way to reach Bihar by Flights, Train and Air
Do you need a visa to visit Bihar India?
Yes, foreign nationals require a visa to visit Bihar, India. As a state within India, Bihar adheres to the same entry regulations as the rest of the country. Most international travelers need a tourist visa prior to entering India. The Indian government offers an e-Visa application process allowing visitors from many countries to apply online. The tourist e-Visa typically has a validity of 30 days, one year, or five years, contingent on the applicant´s nationality and travel plans. After arriving in India via an authorized international airport, such as Delhi or Kolkata, travel to Bihar can be easily accomplished by domestic flight or train. Ensure you apply for your visa several days in advance; processing times are typically 1 to 3 business days.
Top 10 best tourist places to visit in Bihar in 2025
Bodh Gaya: The Land of Enlightenment
With so many attractions to visit, Bihar is a must-visit for anyone planning a trip to India. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of these best places to visit in Bihar.
Bodh Gaya: Land of Enlightenment
Bodh Gaya is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site situated in Gaya District, Bihar. Renowned for its Mahabodhi Temple, it is the place where Gautama Buddha achieved enlightenment beneath the Bodhi tree.
This site is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and governments of foreign nations, including Japan and China, have contributed to the Indian government´s efforts in developing facilities for Buddhist pilgrims. The area is constantly filled with pilgrims from India and around the world, who visit monasteries, temples, and the remnants of the Bodhi Tree to pay their respects.
Located near the Neranjana River, Bodh Gaya was formerly known as Uruwela. It was also called Sambodhi, Vajrasana, or Mahabodhi until the 18th century CE. It is one of four important Buddhist sites, alongside Kushinagar, Lumbini, and Sarnath.
Bodhgaya is one of the most important and sacred Buddhist pilgrimage center in the world
The Alluring City of Patna
Patna, the capital of Bihar, is a dynamic destination steeped in history, culture, and spirituality. As one of Bihar´s tourist attractions, Patna offers a wide variety of attractions appealing to all types of travelers. From ancient monuments to modern structures, Patna´s sites provide a captivating combination of the traditional and the contemporary. Whether you seek historical exploration, religious visits, or a taste of local cuisine, Patna caters to every visitor´s interests.
Patna, a city with a deep historical background, offers a blend of ancient and modern attractions.
Nalanda University: Ancient Seat of Learning
A popular grand monastery in ancient times, a city of Buddhist learning, and a humble pilgrimage centre, all shrouded in the aura of spirituality, Nalanda remains an equally colourful place today. The top place to visit in Bihar offers a vibrant blend of spirituality, history, culture, architecture and tourism content.
The city houses one of the oldest and finest residential universities in the world, which is an architectural masterpiece in itself. Though in ruins, the entire complex presents a beautiful picture and is swarmed with tourists every day. It has ‘viharas’ or monasteries to the east and ‘chaiyas’ or temples to the west. Apart from this, the complex houses a charming little museum that houses several original stupas, Hindu and Buddhist bronzes, coins, pottery jars, samples of burnt rice, etc. The area is considered to be the cradle of religions. Apart from Buddhism, it is also an important centre of Jainism, Hinduism and Sufism. Considering the rich cultural heritage and historical importance, it is a popular tourist destination.
A visit to the ancient ruins of Nalanda University offers a glimpse into one of the world’s first residential universities.
Rajgir: The City of Kings
Rajgir, one of the top places to visit in Bihar, is a destination rich in historical artifacts at its archaeological sites, surrounded by luscious natural beauty, and steeped in spiritual tradition. Visitors can find moments of peace at its hot springs and breathtaking vistas from the ropeway to the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. The harmonious blend of nature and history in Rajgir provides a tranquil escape for travellers.
Rajgir exhibits the ancient grandeur of Nalanda University, a remarkable site of white marble and historical importance. Explore the Cyclopean wall and delve into the cultural heritage of Venu Vana. Experience the historical allure of Jivakameavan Gardens and the ancient Bimbisara Jail, offering insights into Rajgir´s deep past.
Enjoy picturesque trails through the Ratnagiri Hills, experience serene boat rides on Swarn Bhandar Lake, and feel the exhilarating sensation of paragliding in Rajgir. Explore the diverse wildlife of its sanctuary and discover the tranquil beauty of Son Bhandar Caves. Rajgir´s natural landscape offers a variety of adventures, making it an essential destination for nature lovers.
Rajgir is an ancient city known as the first capital of Magadha, famous for Buddhism and Jainism and renowned for its delightful classical landscape.
Vaishali: A Center of Jain and Buddhist Heritage
Delve into the ancient allure of Vaishali, a top tourist places in Bihar and a significant site in both Buddhist and Jain traditions. Explore the captivating Vishwa Shanti Stupa, a symbol of global peace and harmony. Vaishali is renowned for its connection to Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. Uncover the ancient city, purportedly the world´s first republic, and its magnificent stupa, the Ashoka Pillar, another essential Bihar attraction and popular tourist spot. Do not overlook these Bihar tourist attractions
Madhubani: The Artistic Gem of Bihar
Looking for the best tourist places in Bihar to explore? Madhubani in Bihar is an ancient city known for its rich art and culture. Mentioned in the Ramayana, the city is famous for the world-famous Madhubani paintings, which originated here.
Madhubani was separated from the Darbhanga district of Bihar in 1972 during the redivision of territorial boundaries. This small district is slowly emerging as a popular tourist destination, and art lovers come here to admire the Madhubani paintings. Bordered by Nepal to the north, Darbhanga to the south, and Sitamari and Subal on either side, Madhubani is also an important commercial town in the Madhubani district. The town has multiple temples and is a major attraction for the locals. However, the town is not very tourist-friendly and there is not much to do there if you want to take a sightseeing tour.
Madhubani is popular for its beautiful villages and their ancient art, which is known by the name of Madhubani painting
Rajgir: A Blend of Nature and History
Rajgir is a city of scenic beauty, spirituality and a vivid history that is associated with both Buddhism and Jainism.
Set in a green valley and surrounded by rocky hills, Rajgir is a spiritual city that is naturally tranquil amidst dense forests, mysterious caves and springs. Rajgir is home to many religious shrines, mostly dedicated to Buddhism or Jainism and one of top 10 best tourist places in Bihar. Both Lord Buddha and Mahavira are said to have spent time here, giving it immense spiritual and religious significance. One can visit the various sites, temples and ruins here or just spend some time soaking in the refreshing tranquility.
Sitamarhi
Sitamarhi is a town and district seat in Sitamarhi district of Bihar and one of top places to visit in Bihar. It is the birthplace of Goddess Sita, the wife of Lord Rama. Poonaura Dham, where Mata Sita was born in a clay pot, is located in this area. Bordered by Nepal to the north, Muzaffarpur to the south, Champalam and Sheohar to the west, and Darbhanga and Madhubani to the east, this ancient city is located on the banks of the Bagmati River and has a rich history and culture.
The Janaki Temple in Sitamarhi, the Janaki Temple in Poonaura, Deokulli, Hareshwarsthan, Bajmat, Gora-Ul-Sharif, Shukeshwarsthan, Bodayansar and Sabagachi Sasora are the places you must visit when you visit Sitamarhi. Sitamarhi has a rich culture of folk art, dance and music. It is famous for its lac bangles and the world-famous Madhubani paintings are found in many places in this region.
Some of the main attractions include the Ramayan Mela, an annual fair celebrating the life of Lord Rama, and the Ganga Mela, a festival dedicated to the goddess Ganges. In addition to religious and cultural attractions, Sitamari is also known for its delicious cuisine. The city has some great restaurants and street food stalls serving traditional food. When traveling to Sitamari, it is important to be aware of local customs and traditions, and it is also important to dress appropriately. Also, be sure to check the local weather and climate before visiting, as it can be very hot during the summer months.
Sitamarhi district is said to be a pilgrimage destination and its prominence is tied to the epic Ramayana
Bhagalpur: The Silk City
Immerse yourself in the rich silk heritage of Bhagpur, one of the best places to visit in Bihar, where traditional silk weaving workshops showcase intricate craftsmanship. Experience the brightly coloured Bhagpur silk saris embellished with colourful patterns, reflecting the city’s historical significance in the silk industry. Explore Bhagpur’s charm as a renowned silk centre and gain insight into the art of silk production, making it one of the must-visit places in Bihar. So, if you want to explore the silk heritage of Bihar, Bhagpur is one of the top tourist places in Bihar that you should not miss.
Bhagalpur is known as the Silk Capital of Bihar and visitors come from all over India to see the city.
Muzaffarpur: The Land of Shahi Lychees
Nestled within Muzaffarpur, a top 10 tourist place in Bihar, savor the exquisite Shahi Lychees, famed for their superior quality and unique sweetness. Explore expansive lychee orchards, capturing picturesque scenery, and participate in lychee picking to experience the fruit at its freshest. Symbolizing the region's agricultural bounty, Shahi Lychees are a must-try, making Muzaffarpur a captivating agricultural tourism destination and a top place to visit in Bihar.
Embark on a spiritual journey at the ancient Baba Garibnath Dham and delve into Muzaffarpur’s cultural heritage at the historic Navlakha Palace, also known as Rajnagar Palace. This 260-year-old architectural marvel, built by Maharaja Rameshwar Singh, stands as a testament to ancient architecture and engineering. Enjoy the therapeutic hot springs and immerse yourself in the natural beauty while birdwatching at the sanctuary. Don’t miss the Litchi Kingdom, a showcase of agricultural tourism and the region's rich cultural fabric.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the top 10 tourist places in Bihar offer a captivating journey through India's rich history, spirituality, and natural beauty. From the vibrant metropolis of Patna to the serene spiritual hub of Bodh Gaya, the ancient ruins of Nalanda to the exquisite art of Madhubani, this diverse state has something to captivate every visitor. Do not miss the opportunity to explore Vaishali, experience the renowned silk industry of Bhagalpur, immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Rajgir and Pawapuri, and marvel at the magnificent palaces and temples of Darbhanga. And for those seeking unique destinations, Bihar harbors numerous hidden gems awaiting discovery. Plan your trip with the optimal travel dates in mind and savor the local culinary delights along the way. Bihar truly delivers a singular and captivating travel experience.
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