INTRODUCTION

Bihar's antiquity is evident from its name, which is derived from the ancient word "VIHARA"
(monastery). It is indeed a land of monasteries. Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Muslim and Sikh shrines
abound in this ancient land where India's first major empires rose and fell. Where the ruins of the
worlds' earliest university slumbers in the void of time. The passage of Ganga, flowing wide and
deep enrich the plains of Bihar before distributing in Bengal's deltoid zone
Buddha lived and preached in Bihar and from Bihar Buddhism spread out into the world. It is from
this land of learning that people took great ideas and came to learn at universities like Nalanda,
from tertiaries like the Arthashastra. It is this land of Viharas where Buddhist monks prayed and
spread the message of Ahimsa and Love. This is a land full of pilgrimage places for not only
Buddhists but also Jains, Sikhs and Hindus.

Bihar, an eastern Indian state and the place that gave birth to Buddhism and Jainism and helped in
the growth of Sikhism and Hinduism, has a past that is unmatched anywhere in the world. It was
the center of first republic in the world at Vaishali and the city of Patliputra was largest and
grandest in the world at the height of its glory. There is an array of tourist destinations of diverse
interests in the state, though their potential has not been exploited fully till now. The state that
represents everything good and bad within the country is waiting to be explored and rediscovered.

Bihar's Tourism Industry has great importance mainly due to Bihar's long and illustrious history.
Laying along the eastern Gangetic Plains in North India Bihar has a distinction of being birth place
of two great religions of Buddhism and Jainism. The state also boasts of some of the finest
monuments of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Bihar's ecological wealth range from the foot hills
of Himalayas, to the vast and fertile plains of the Ganga, hills, forests and wide plateau. An epitome
of diversity Bihar has enchanting land and people, fairs and festivals, arts and crafts, flora and
fauna of Bihar and that is what tourism in Bihar is all about.
Among all Indian states, Bihar is the one most
intimately linked to the Buddha’s life, resulting in a trail of pilgrimages which have come to be
known as the Buddhist circuit. The Buddhist trail begins at the capital city, Patna, where a
noteworthy museum contains a collection of Hindu and Buddhist sculptures as well as a terracotta
urn said to contain the ashes of Lord Buddha.
The Khuda Baksh Oriental Library has rare Muslim manuscripts including some from the
University of Cordoba in Spain. 40 km away, Vaishali, was the site for the second Buddhist
Council is the presence of ruins testify. 90 km south of Patna is Nalanda which translates as the
place that confers the lotus’ (of spiritual knowledge). A monastic university   flourished here from
the 5th to the 11th century. It is said to have contained nine million books, with 2,000 teachers to
impart knowledge to 10,000 students who came from all over the Buddhist world. Lord Buddha
himself taught here and Hieun Tsang, the 7th century Chinese traveler, was a student. Ongoing
excavations have uncovered temples, monasteries and lecture halls. Rajgir, ‘the royal palace’, 12
km south, was the venue for the first Buddhist Council. The Buddha spent five years at Rajgir after
having attained enlightenment, and many of the remains at Rajgir commemorate various incidents
related to life of Buddha, the hill of Gridhrakuta being perhaps the most important, as this is where
the Buddha delivered most of his sermons. Bodhgaya is the spot where Lord Buddha attained
enlightenment, with the Mahabodhi Temple marking the precise location.

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 HISTORY
The early history of Bihar is lost as the major events and happenings were not documented but with
the advent of Jain and Buddhist texts documentation of events began. And from these texts we get to
know about the sixteen Mahajanapadas that flourished during the 6th century BC. Vaishali, Anga,
Rajgriha, Pataliputra, Nalanda, and Mithila are just a few of the places in Bihar that knit the history of
ancient India.
Vaishali in northern Bihar, the center of the Lichchhavi kingdom is rated as the most ancient and
credited as the world's first republic. It got its aura of sanctity with the birth of Lord Mahavira here.
This was also the favorite resting place of Lord Buddha and he preached his last sermon here, which
was later commemorated by a lion capital erected by King Ashoka. The legends of the courtesan
Amrapali's exquisite beauty added to the glory and charm of Vaishali.

By the fifth century BC, the focus of history shifted to Magadh with its capital at Rajgriha (seen as
the first recorded capital in Indian history), and later Pataliputra. Rajgriha witnessed the first
Buddhist Council and the conversion of the Mauryan king Bimbisara to Buddhism. During the last
days of the Buddha, the political masters thought of shifting their capital from Rajgriha to Pataliputra,
which gradually became the pride of Asia and subsequently the capital to the great empires of
Nandas, Mauryas, Sungas and Guptas. It was here that Megasthenes spent most of his time as an
Ambassador of his Syrian king Seleukos Nikator.

During the medieval period, except for the brief twinkle of Sher Shah's reign who rose from his base
in Bihar to the sultanate of Delhi that ruled over the entire country, the province of Bihar rarely
enjoyed the status of an independent state; rather it swayed with the fortunes of Delhi, Jaunpur and
Bengal. Various sultans of Delhi and later the Mughals, as well as emperors and princes, criss-
crossed Bihar in order to crush the rebellions in distant Bengal.
Much later, Babur, in pursuit of the Lodhis, came as far as Bihar. Babur's death brought Humayun to
the throne of Delhi and he had a hard time fighting his Afghan adversary from Bihar, Sher Shah.
Most of their decisive battles were fought in and around Bihar. Sher Shah was more than a match for
Humayun and gradually he paved his way to the throne of Delhi. During his brief reign of five years,
Sher Shah proved himself to be one of the greatest rulers of medieval India.

After the coming of the British to India, Bihar again played an important role in deciding the future
course of the country and Buxar became the place where the final battle for supremacy in north India
was fought between the East India Company and the combined forces of the Mughals, and Nawabs of
Bengal and Awadh in 1764.

Bihar was part of the Bengal presidency till 1911, when a separate province comprising Bihar and
Orissa was created. In 1936, Bihar was made an independent province.
Apart from the documented history, Bihar finds mention in the legends and tales related to the
Ramayan. It is believed that the Goddess Sita, the wife of Lord Ram, was born in Mithila to King
Janak, the ruler of the region.

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 BIHAR AT A
GLANCE
Location
Bihar is located in the eastern region of India, bordering Nepal in
the North, West Bengal in the east, Uttar Pradesh in the West, and
Jharkhand in the South. Bihar lies between the latitudes 21°58' and
27°31' North and longitudes 83°19' and 88°17' east.

Bihar can be divided into three distinct regions i.e. the north
Gangetic plains, Central Bihar, and South Bihar plateau. The
North Gangetic plain is an extension of the Terai region of Nepal with many tributaries of the Ganges
like Kosi, Gandak, Baghmati, and Kamla Balan flowing through it. It is a flood prone region and one
of the most backward regions in the country. Central Bihar, south of the Ganges, is a region with rich
agricultural resources. Most of the north and central Bihar is plain has no significant elevation.

The Land
The topography of Bihar can be easily described as a fertile alluvial plain occupying the north, the
Gangetic Valley; The northern plain extends from the foothills of the Himalayas in the north to a few
miles south of the river Ganges as it flows through the State from the west to the east. Rich farmland
and lush orchards extend throughout the north. Following are the major crops: paddy, wheat, lentils,
sugarcane, jute (hemp, related to the marijuana plant, but a source of tough fibers and "gunny bags".)
Also, cane grows wild in the marshes of West Champaran.

Principal fruits are: mangoes, banana, jack fruit and litchis. This is one the very few areas outside
China which produces litchi. There is very little industry in the plain region except for the sugar
factories that are scattered all over the northern plains, particularly in the western region. Jute is
transported to the jute factories located mostly in Calcutta.

Bihar has, in total, three National Parks, 18 wildlife sanctuaries, one Biosphere Reserve and two
Project Tiger sites. The actual area under forest cover is around 15.3% of the total area. The tropical
fauna of this region includes sheesham, khair, bent, mangroves, and scrubs. Major wildlife varieties
include tigers, nilgai, wild boar, sambar, cheetal, and kakar. Among the wildlife, notable are: deer,
bears, numerous species of birds, including the peacock, pheasant, and wild fowl, and most notably,
the tiger. The forest around Valmiki Nagar, West Champaran is one of the last remaining refuges of
this highly endangered species.
The forests of Bihar yield valuable commercial products besides the timber. Cane trees are used in
the manufacture of an indigenous product for making furniture. A resinous material secreted by the
lac insect is valuable commercially. It is the source of shellac. Also, bangles made of lac are very
popular among women of Bihar. The silkworm is the source of magnificent silk - haracteristically,
the tusser or tussah silk. The majestic banyan tree (Ficus bengalensis), and the related pipal (Ficus
religiosa), dot the entire landscape of the State.

The People
The people of Bihar can be generally categorized as largely non-tribals with some sprinkling of tribal
people. The non-tribal group belongs to various castes, prominent among which are: kayasthas,
bhumihars, rajputs, and the so-called backward castes - yadavs, koeris, musahars, chamars, and
others.
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The hallmark of the Biharis is a rustic simplicity with intrinsic humility coupled with enormous self-
respect. They are traditionally very hospitable to strangers.

The Language
Hindi is by far the most common language of the state, understood by all. There are a significant
number of Bengali speaking people also. They are descendants of the settlers from the old British
Presidency of Bengal. English is the language of commerce and is spoken by the educated masses.

In addition people speak many dialects in different regions. The major dialects are: Bhojpuri,
Magahi and Maithili. Bhojpuri is spoken in the districts of Champaran (East and West), Saran, and
Shahabad. Magahi is the dialect of Central Bihar. Maithili, and its variants, is the dialect of the people
in the north-east, i.e., the districts of Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Darbhanga, Samastipur, Saharsa, Purnia
and Bhagalpur.
Of all the dialects and languages, only Maithili can be classified as a distinct and uniquely Bihari
language. It has a very old literature of its own. (Hindi, as a distinct literary form, came about only
very recently - towards the turn of this century.) The famous poet, Vidyapati, of medieval Bihar, was
the composer of lyrical poems in Maithili. These songs are devoted to the worship of Lord Krishna
and Shiva. Shrimati Vindhyabasini Devi is a current exponent of the songs of Vidyapati. The French
music publishers, Ocora, have published a compact disc of her Vidayapati's songs. (Ocora C580063,
"Mithila Chants d'amour de Vidyapati", with Jawahar Lal Jha and Ganesh Kant Thakur) 

How to Reach Bihar

 
A natural destination for national and international tourists throughout the year, Bihar is well
connected through air and rail services with rest of the country.

Air: All major airlines operate flights directly to Patna.Indian Airlines operates daily flights to,
Delhi Kolkata and Ranchi and Lucknow.The office is located next to Hotel Maurya ,Patna.Sahara
Air and Air Deccan also has a daily flight from Patna to other cities. Some international flights also
operate from Gaya airport. The airport is 7km west of the city centre.
Rail: The railway station is located in the centre of the Patna. It connects the city to all major cities
and towns of India. There are direct trains daily for New Delhi, Kolkata, Varanasi, Ranchi and
northeastern states like Assam.
Bus: The bus stand has shifted to Mithapur at the outskirt of the Patna city. There are buses to
almost all the places within the state and also for Ranchi, Siliguri etc.The fare varies according to
the speed of the service. Auto rickshaw- Shared auto rickshaws runs within the city and in most
parts of the state. They are cheap and shuttle between different points.

Best time to visit

The climate of the state is tropical with hot summers and cold winters. Monsoon brings medium to
high rainfall and floods several areas in north Bihar. Humidity levels remain high in north and central
Bihar throughout the summer and monsoon season, making them quite uncomfortable. The best time
to visit the state is from October to March.

Profile of Bihar
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Geographical Between
Location 24º 20' 10" and 27º3'15" North Latitude
83º 19' 50" and 88º17'40" Eastern Longitude
Soil of Bihar Clay Soil, Sandy Soil, Loamy Soil.
Main Rivers Ganga , Saryu , Gandak ,Bagmati , Koshi , Sone ,Punpun , Phalgu
Height above Sea 173 feet ( 53 meters)
Level
Climate Temperature
Varies from a maximum of 44ºC in Summer to a minimum of around 5ºC in
the Winters
Rainfall (1999)
Medium to Heavy :1384.3 mm (average)
Total Area 94163.00 Sq.Kms.(2001 Census)
Connectivity Bihar is well connected by roads.
NH 30 & 31 connects Varanasi, Lucknow, New Delhi and Kolkata. National
Waterway No. 1 is used for cargo transport between Haldia (West Bengal)
and Patna.
Air services connect Patna with Kolkata, Ranchi, Lucknow, Kanpur, Delhi,
Guwahati, Ahmedabad, Allahabad and Kathmandu ( Nepal ) .
State is well connected by railway network - with major city of Kolkata,
Delhi, Ranchi, Bombay, Varanasi, Jammu, Guwahati etc.
Length of Roads (1999-2000)
National Highway :  26594.75 Kms
State Highway :  11050.12  Kms
Other P.W.D Road :15385.88 Kms
Geographical North: Nepal
Boundaries South: Jharkhand
East: West Bengal
West: Uttar Pradesh
Physiography, Physiographically the entire state is part of the Ganga-Plains. The formation
Flora & Fauna of plains have come out with sediments deposited by the River Ganga,
Gandak and Sone. The River Ganga divides whole Bihar into two physical
divisions- the north Bihar Plain and South Bihar Plain. The river system is
the lifeline of the state.
State Capital PATNA
Hon'ble Chief Minister, Bihar :
Shri Nitish Kumar
Hon'ble Minister, Tourism & Roads Construction, Bihar :
Shri Nand Kishore Yadav
Airport Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna;
Gaya International Airport, Gaya
High Court Patna High Court
State's Official Hindi / Urdu
Languages

People There are tribal as well as non-tribal people in the state. They can be better
classified as non-tribal of north and aborigines of the south. The latter are
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 tribal in character. The non-tribal group belong to various castes, prominent
among which are : Kayastha, Bhumihars, Rajputs, and the so-called
backward castes. The aborigines belong to various tribes.
Density of 880 per sq. Km. (2001 Census)
Population
Population 8,28,78,796 (2001 Census)
Food Habits Rice, Dal, Chapaties, Vegetables, Non-Vegetarian items ; Items of Gram
Flour; Litti, and Chura-Dahi (Curd) in Mithila .
Festivals Chhath (Oct.- Nov.), Jeutia, Teej, Godhan, Buddha Purnima, Shrawani
Purnima (Kanwar Festival: when Pilgrims collect holy water from the Ganga
at Sultanganj and offer it to Lord Shiva at Deoghar (Jharkhand), Madhu
Shravani of Mithila,Pitripaksha etc.
Art and Craft Madhubani Paintings, Appliqué work, Bamboo products, Jute products
Important Fairs Harihar Kshetra (Sonepur) Cattle Fair is one of the biggest Cattle fair in
Asia. Shrawani Fair of Sultanganj.
Traditional Male:- Kurta-Dhoti, Kurta-Pajama, Pant-Shirt
Costumes Female :- Saree , Salwar-Kurta
Districts having Lakhisarai, Gaya, West Champaran and East Champaran.
the largest area

CULTURE OF BIHAR
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Culture of Bihar Besides usual rural handicrafts like hand-painted wall hangings, wooden
stools, miniatures in paper and leaves, stone pottery, bamboo, leather goods and appliqué
work, Bihar is famous for its Mithila/Madhubani paintings. These works of art often
adorn city homes and are also exported. A strict monopoly of women of Mithila,
Madhubani artists work with natural colors on paper and cloth, making works that narrate
mythological and religious events.
Ancient designs in bright colors can still be seen on the mud walls in the districts of
Saharsa, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Darbhanga, Samastipur, and Bhagalpur and of course
Madhubani the trade centre for this unique art.

Since most of the people are Hindu,traditional festivals like Holi,Saraswati Puja,Durga
Puja or Dussehra,Deepwali and Bhaiya Dooj are all celebrated.But Chaath dedicated to Sun
God is one festival that is unique to the place.The festival begins on the fourth day of the
month of Kartik Shukhla Paksha(second fortnight of Kartik).This will correspond to late
October to mid-November depending on the year. It is one of the holiest festivals for
Biharis and extends to four days.

Bihar has a very old tradition of beautiful folk songs sung during important family
occasions such as marriage, birth ceremonies. They are sung mainly in group settings
without the help of too many musical instruments though dholak and occasionally tabla and
harmonium are used. Bihar also has a tradition of lively Holi songs known as Phagua filled
with fun rhythms.

During the 19th century when the condition of Bihar worsened under the British misrule
many Biharis had to migrate as apprenticed labourers to West Indian Islands, Fiji and
Mauritius. During this time many sad plays and songs called Biraha became very popular
in the Bhojpur area. Dramas on that theme continue to be popular in the theatres of Patna.
Theatre is another form in which the Bihari culture expresses itself. Some forms of theatre
with rich traditions are Reshma-Chuharmal, Bihula-Bisahari, Bahura-GOrin, Raja-Salhesh,
Sama-Chakeva and Dom-Kach.These originate in the Anga area of Bihar.

The state has also produced many Hindi writers like Raja Radhika Raman Singh,Shiva
Pujan Sahay,Divakar Prasad Vidyarthy,Ramdhari Singh Dinkar,Ram Briksha
Benipuri,Phanishwar Nath Renu and Baba Nagarjun.
Bihar is truly colorful state and a great tourist hotspot.

DESTINATION’S BIHAR
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 Tourist Map of Bihar

Destinations: Patna

Patna once called Pataliputra the capital of Bihar, is among the

world's oldest capital cities with unbroken history of many centuries
as imperial metropolis. The history and heritage of modern day
Patna go back well over two millennia. Like Delhi, Patna too had
been the regal seat of governance for successive kingdoms since
ancient times. The Only State Capital in the country with a large
variety of historical monuments from Maurya to Gupta age and
down to the Colonial British Rule. And to this day, it is the capital
city of the state. As each ruler ascended in power and established
dynastic glory, he gave his capital a new name. Thus, the ancient
Kusumpura metamorphosed through Pushpapura, Pataliputra,
Azeemabad and now into Patna, a continuous history ranging from 6th century BC to present times -
a record claimed by few cities in the world. It was Ajatshatru the Magadha king who first built a
small fort in Pataligram on the bank of the Ganga in 6th century BC, which later blossomed into the
ancient glory still to be seen in the neighboring archaeological sites at Kumrahar. Bhiknapahari,
Agamkuan, Bulandi Bagh and Kankar Bagh. Pataliputra dominated the political fortunes of the whole
of north India between 6th century BC and 5th century AD, a fact established by archaeological
excavations. After a temporary eclipse, in 16th century, Sher Shah Suri returned the city to its former
glory and established the present Patna. After the decline of the Mughals, the British too found Patna
a convenient regional capital and built a modern extension to this ancient city and called it Bankipore.
It was in Gandhi Maidan in this area, that Mahatma Gandhi held his prayer meetings.
Patna of 2010 is radically different from Patna of 1990. There is certainly a new excitement creeping
in. In the past couple of years, enough guesthouses, hotels, restaurants, cafeterias, bars, and clubs
have opened to support the city's new role: not merely a place to unwind but a hub to explore the
emerging new emerging economic opportunities in the region as well as a gateway to the Buddhist &
Jain pilgrim centers of Vaishali, Rajgir, Nalanda, Bodhgaya & Pawapuri.

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General Information
 Altitude: 53 metres
 Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C: Summer - 40/21 Winter - Max. 20/6.
 Rainfall:120 cms
 Best Season: October to March
 Clothing: Summer – Cottons Winter - Heavy Woollens.

What to See

Golghar: Alarmed by the famine of 1770, captain John Garstin built this huge granary for the British
army in 1786. The massive structure is 29 m high and the walls are 3.6 m wide at the base. The
winding stairway around this monument offers a brilliant panoramic view of the city and the Ganga
flowing by.

Martyr's Memorial: A memorial to seven freedom fighters who sacrificed

their lives in the Quit India Movement of August 1942, the Martyr's Memorial
is a modern sculpture facing the Secretariat,
where they were shot in their attempt to host the
national flag.

Har Mandir Takht: Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs,
was born in 1660 in Patna. The Har Mandir Takht, one of the four sacred
shrines of the Sikhs, stands at this holy site. The original temple was built
by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and contains belongings of the Guru and Sikh holy texts.

Patna Museum: The Patna Museum houses a First World War

cannon, metal and stone sculptures of the Mauryan and Gupta
periods, Buddhist sculptures and quaint terracotta figures. A 16 m
long fossilised tree is one of its special features.

Pathar ki Masjid: Adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib, on the bank of

the Ganga, is this beautiful mosque built by Parwez Shah, son of
Jehangir, when he was the governor of Bihar. It is also called Saif
Khan's mosque, Chimmi Ghat mosque and Sangi Masjid.

Sher Shah Suri Masjid: Sher Shah Suri built this mosque in 1545 to commemorate his reign. Built
in the Afghan architectural style, it is one of the many beautiful mosques in Bihar, and one of the
impressive landmarks of Patna.

Khuda Baksh Oriental Library: Founded in 1900, a magnificent one man collection of rare Arabic
and Persian manuscripts, Rajput and Mughal paintings, oddities like the Koran inscribed in a book
only 25mm wide and an assortment of old and new books from the University of Cordoba, Spain. It
is one of the national libraries in India.  The library also contains the only books to survive the
sacking of the Moorish University of Cordoba in Spain.

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Jalan Museum: Built on the foundations of Sher Shah's fort, Qila House contains an impressive
private collection of antiques, including a dinner service that once belonged to George III, Marie
Antoinette's Sevres porcelain, Napoleon's four-poster bed, Chinese jade and Mughal silver filigree,.It
is a private collection, and prior permission is required for a visit.
Sadaqat Ashram: The Ashram is the headquarters of Bihar Vidyapeeth, a national university. India's
first president, Dr. Rajendra Prasad lived here after his retirement and there is a small museum here
showcasing his personal belongings.

Agam Kuan: Agam Kuan (Unfathomable well) is one of the most important early historic
archeological remains in Patna. It is situated just close to Gulzarbagh railway Station, which is
proposed to be associated with the Mauryan Emperor Ashok.

Gandhi Setu: Asia's longest roadway bridge

Padri Ki Haveli: The Place were Mother Teresa got her training.

Biological Park: Also known as Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park

Modern Planetarium: Indira Gandhi Science Complex,

is one of the must visiting places in Patna. This is among
few Planetarium's (Taramandal) in India.

Kumhrar: Kumhrar, site of the ancient city of Patliputra, lies 5

kms from Patna railway station. Archaeological findings in this area
establish Patna's claim to over a thousand years of political glory -
600 BC to 600 AD. Very little of this grandeur remains though,
except for the remains of a huge Mauryan hall supported by 80
sandstone pillars dating back to 300 BC.
How to Reach

Air: The flights of Indian Airlines, Air Deccan and Jet Airways connect Patna with Bombay,
Calcutta, Delhi, Lucknow, Ranchi and many other major cities.
Rail: Patna is connected by rail to Bombay, Calcutta, Guwahati, Ranchi, Varanasi.
Road: All - weather motorable roads connect Patna with the rest of Bihar. There are also regular inter
- state bus services.By road Patna to Nalanda-95 km, Rajgir-110 km, Pawapuri-90 km, Gaya-120 km,
Bodhgaya-135 km, Raxaul-210 km, Ranchi-335 km, Muzzafarpur-78 km, Sasaram- 152 km,
Vaishali-56 km, Calcutta-653 km, Delhi-997 km. Bus : Regular direct bus services connect Patna to
Calcutta, Rajgir, Nalanda, Pawapuri, Vaishali, Gaya-Bodhgaya, Ranchi, Raxaul, Muzzafarpur,
Sasaram.
Railways:-Patna junction and Rajendra Nagar junction are the two main railway stations providing
train links to Patna from other parts of the country. There are number of trains including Rajdhani
linking with Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Guwahati, Bangalore and Chennai.

Where to Stay

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One can stay in western style air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned hotels. There are also a number
of moderately priced hotels around the railway station and the airlines office. Tourists can also stay at
the Tourist Bungalow (Kautilya Vihar) of Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation.
A few other private hotels of Patna are - Hotel Maurya (five stars), Gandhi Maidan, Hotel Chanakya,
Beerchand Patel Path, Hotel Republic, Exhibition Road, Hotel Samrat International, Frazer Road,
Hotel Pataliputra Ashok, Beerchand Patel Path, Marwari Awas Griha, Frazer Road, Hotel Anand Lok
Residency, Patna Railway Station etc.

Tourist Bungalows:
Rooms available: AC Room, Non-AC Deluxe, Economy and  Dormitory Beds.

Shopping
Local Handicraft, Mahdubani Paintings, Jwellery and Kadhi Cloths
Shopping Center:
Maurya Lok Complex, Near Dak Bunglow Crossing on Bailey Road.

Destination: Bodhgaya
Bodhgaya is one of the most important and sacred
Buddhist pilgrimage center in the world. It was here
under a banyan tree, the Bodhi Tree, Gautama attained
supreme knowledge to become Buddha,the Enlightened

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One. Born; in the foothills of the Himalayas as a Sakya prince of Kapilvastu (now in Nepal), most of
the major events of his life, like enlightenment and last sermon, happened in Bihar. Buddhism as a
religion was really born in Bihar and evolved here through his preaching and the example of his
lifestyle of great simplicity, renunciation and empathy for everything living. Significantly, the state's
name of 'Bihar' originated from 'Vihara' meaning monasteries which abounded in Bihar.

Several centuries after Buddha's passing away, the Maurya Emperor Ashoka (234-198 BC)
contributed tremendously towards the revival, consolidation and spread of the original religion. It is
the monasteries, Ashoka built for the Buddhist monks and the pillars known as Ashokan Pillars
erected to commemorate innumerable historical sites associated with the Buddha's life, mostly intact
to this day, that helped scholars and pilgrims alike to trace the life events and preaching of a truly
extraordinary man. There is a magnificent Mahabodhi temple and the Tree from the original sapling
still stands in the temple premises. The temple is an architectural amalgamation of many centuries,
cultures and heritages. While its architecture has a distinct stamp of the Gupta era, it has later ages
inscriptions describing visits of pilgrims from Sri Lanka, Myanmar and China between 7th and 10th
century AD. It is perhaps still the same temple Hieuen Tsang visited in 7th century.

General Information
 Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C: Summer 47/28 Winter-28/4
 Rainfall:186 cms (Mid-June to Mid-September)
 Altitude:113 Meters
 Best Season: October to March.

What to See

Mahabodhi Temple: The temple stands in the east to the Bodhi Tree. Its architectural effect
is superb. Its basement is 48 square feet and it rises in the form of a slender Pyramid till it
reaches its neck, which is cylindrical in shape. The total height of the temple is 170 ft. and on the top
of the temple are Chatras which symbolize sovereignty of religion. Four towers on its corners rise
gracefully giving the holy structure a poise balance. This sacred edifice is like a grand banner
unfurled by time to proclaim to the world the pious efforts of the Buddha to solve the knots of human
miseries, to ascend above worldly problems and to attain transcendental peace through wisdom, good
conduct and disciplined life.

Inside the temple, in the main sanctum, there is a colossal image of the Buddha in sitting posture
touching the earth by his right hand. In this posture the Buddha accomplished the supreme
enlightenment. The statue is of black stone but it has been guilder by the devotees. The entire
courtyard of the temple is studded with large number of votive stupas. These stupas are of all sizes
built during the past 2500 years ago. Most of them are extremely elegant in structural beauty. The
ancient railings, which surround the temple, are of the first century BC and are among the very
interesting monuments of the century.

Animesh Lochan Chaitya: It is believed that the Buddha spent one week here looking towards the
great Bodhi tree out of gratitude, without twinkling his eyes.
Bodhi Tree: The present Bodhi Tree is probably the fifth succession of the original tree
under which the Buddha had attained enlightenment. Vajrasana, the seat of stability, is a
stone platform on which the Buddha is supposed to have sat in meditation gazing east, under the
Bodhi tree.

Page 12 of 45
Chankramana: This marks the sacred spot of the Buddha's meditative perambulations during the
third week after pious enlightenment. It is believed that wherever the Buddha put his feet lotus sprang
up.

Ratnagarh: The Buddha spent one week here,

where it is believed that five colors came out of his
body.

Other Treasures of Bodhgaya: 80 ft Statue of the

Buddha, Lotus Tank, Buddha Kund,
Rajayatana, Brahm Yoni, Chinese Temple &
Monastery, Burmese Temple, Buddhist
Monastery of Bhutan, International Buddhist
House & Japanese Temple, Thai Temple &
Monastery, Tibetan Monastery, Archaeological
Museum. Sujata village (2 kms), Dungeshwari
Hill (Prag bodhi) (22 kms by road), Maitraya
Project (3 kms).

Temple Timings
Mahabodhi Temple: 5 AM to 9 PM
Other Monastries: 5 AM to 12 Noon and 2 PM to 6 PM

How to Reach
Air: The nearest airport is at Gaya 7 Kms and Patna 135 kms. Indian Airlines and Jet
Airlines connect Patna to Calcutta, Bombay, Delhi, Ranchi, Lucknow and various other
cities.
Rail: The nearest railway station is Gaya (17km).
Road: Bodhgaya is well connected by road to Gaya (17km), Nalanda (101 km), Rajgir (78
km), Patna (135km), Varanasi (252 km), Calcutta (495km)
Local Transport: Taxis, Tongas, Auto Rickshaws, Cycle Rickshaws are available.
Bus : Regular direct bus services are available from Gaya, Patna, Nalanda, Rajgir, Varanasi.
Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation run buses from Patna- Bodhgaya route twice
a day.
Conducted Tour : Chartered buses or taxis are arranged from Ranchi and Patna by Bihar
State Tourism Development Corporation.

Where to Stay

Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation runs three hotels - Siddhartha Vihar, Buddha
Vihar and Sujata Vihar and has a Tourist Information Centre in its sprawling tourist complex
campus. There is Hotel Bodhgaya Ashok run by Indian Tourism development Corporation
and there are several other good private hotels in the town.
Tourist Bungalows:
1. Siddharth Vihar, Bodhgaya, Gaya-824231
Phone: 0631-2200445, 2200127.
Rooms available: AC Rooms, Non-AC Rooms

Page 13 of 45
 2. Sujata Vihar, Bodhgaya, Gaya-824231
Phone:0631-2200445, 2200127.
Rooms available: Dormitory Beds available only
3. Buddha Vihar, Bodhgaya, Gaya-824231.
Phone: 0631-2200445, 2200127.
Facility Available: Restaurant, CTV, Conference Hall, Coach/Car Parking.
Rooms available: Dormitory Beds and Conference Hall is available.

Destinations :Nalanda

Nalanda, founded in the 5th century AD, is

famous as the ancient seat of learning. The
ruins of the world's most ancient university
lies here which is 62 km from Bodhgaya and
90 km south of Patna. Though the Buddha
visited Nalanda several times during his

Page 14 of 45
lifetime, this famous center of Buddhist learning shot to fame much later, during 5th-12th
centuries. Hieun Tsang stayed here in the 7th century AD and left detailed description of the
excellence of education system and purity of monastic life practiced here.
He also gave a vivid account of both the ambiance and architecture of this unique university
of ancient times. In this first residential international university of the world, 2,000 teachers
and 10,000 monks students from all over the Buddhist world lived and studied here. The
Gupta kings patronized these monasteries, built in old Kushan architectural style, in a row of
cells around a courtyard. Emperor Ashoka and Harshavardhana were some of its most
celebrated patrons who built temples, monasteries and viharas here. Recent excavations have
unearthed elaborate structures here. An International Center for Buddhist Studies was
established here in 1951. Nearby is Biharsharif, where an annual urs is celebrated at the
Dargah or tomb of Malik Ibrahim Baya. Baragaon, 2 km away has a sun temple, famous for
Chhath puja. To be visited are Nalanda museum & Nava Nalanda Mahavihar in addition to
the great ruins.

General Information
 Altitude: 67 metres
 Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C: Summer 37.8/17.8  Winter 27.8/10.6
 Rainfall:120 cm (June to September)
 Best Season: October to March

What to See

Nalanda University Ruins Archaeological Complex:

The total area of the excavation is about 14 hectares. All
the edifices are of the red brick and the gardens are
beautiful. The buildings are divided by a central walk
way that goes south to north. The monasteries or
"Viharas" are east of this central alley and the temple or
"Chaiyas" to the west. The Vihara-1 is perhaps the most
interesting with its cells on two floors built around a central courtyard where steps lead up to
what must have been a dais for the professors to address their students. A small chapel still
retains a half broken statue of the Lord Buddha.
The enormous pyramidal mass of the Temple no .3 is impressive and from its top commands
a splendid view of the entire area. It is surrounded by smaller stupas, many of which studded
with small and big statues of the Lord Buddha in Various poses or "Mudras".

Nalanda Archaeological Museum: Opposite the entrance to the ruins of the university and
houses, there is a small but beautiful collection of Buddhist and Hindu bronzes and a number
of undamaged statues of the Lord Buddha that were found in the area. Two enormous terra-
cotta jars of the first century stand intact behind the museum in a shaded enclosure. The
collection includes copper plates and stone inscriptions, coins, pottery and samples of burnt
rice (12th century AD) found among the ruins here. Open during 10.00 to 17.00. Closed on
Friday.

Nava Nalanda Mahavihara: Nava Nalanda

Mahavihara is devoted to study and research of Pali
Literature and Buddhism. This is a new institute,
where students from foreign countries also study.

Page 15 of 45
Hieun Tsang Memorial Hall: A new construction in memory of the great Chinese traveler,
Hieun Tsang.
Silao: In between Nalanda and Rajgir, there is a village namely Silao where very a popular
local sweet "KHAJA" is prepared.

Surajpur Baragaon: The lake with its temple of Surya, the Sun God , is a pilgrim
destination twice a year in "Vaishakha" (April-May) and in "Kartika" (October-November)
during the Chhath Puja or Sun worship.

How to Reach

 Air: The nearest airport is at Patna 89 km. Indian Airlines connect Patna to Calcutta,
Ranchi, Bombay, Delhi and Lucknow.
 Rail: Though Rajgir (12 km) is the nearest railway station to Nalanda yet the nearest
convenient rail head is at Gaya 95 km.
 Road: Nalanda is connected by good road with
Rajgir 12 km, Bodh Gaya 110 km, Gaya 95 km,
Patna 90 km, Pawapuri 26 km, Bihar Sharif 13 km
etc.
 Local Transport: There are no taxis available in
Nalanda. Cycle rickshaws and tongas are the only
modes of transport.
 Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation
organizes trips to Nalanda, Rajgir etc. from its
Headquarters Tourist Bhawan, Bir Chand Patel Path, Patna-1. Ph.0612-2222622 ,
2225411. Fax-0612-2236218

Where to Stay

Tourists prefer to stay at Rajgir (15 km. from Nalanda). There are a number of moderately
priced hotels available at Rajgir. Tourists can stay at any of the three Tourists Bungalows of
Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation, Tathagat Vihar, Ajatshatru Vihar and
Gautam Vihar.

Shopping
Local Arts & Craft, Stone Sculptures and Madhubani Paintings.
Shopping Center:
Handicraft Shops in Main Market at Kund Area (Hot Spring) and at Aerial Ropeway.

Destinations :: Vaishali

Page 16 of 45
Vaishali today is a small village surrounded by banana and mango groves as well as rice
fields. But excavations in the area have brought to light an impressive historical past. The
epic Ramayana tells the story of the heroic King Vishal who ruled here. Historians maintain
that one of the world's first democratic republics with an elected assembly of
representatives flourished here in the 6th century B.C. in the time of the Vajjis and the
Lichchavis. And while Pataliputra, capital of the Mauryas and the Guptas, held political
sway over the Gangetic plain, Vaishali was the center for trade and industry.

Lord Buddha visited Vaishali frequently and at Kolhua, close by, preached his last sermon.
To commemorate the event, Emperor Ashoka, in the third century B.C. erected one of his
famous lion pillars here. A hundred years after the
Mahaparinirvana of the Buddha - Vaishali hosted
the second great Buddhist council. Two stupas
were erected to commemorate this event.

Jainism, too, has its origins in Vaishali, for in 527

B.C., Lord Mahavir was born on the outskirts of the
city, and lived in Vaishali till he was 22. Vaishali is
then twice blessed and remains an important
pilgrim center for both Buddhists and Jains,
attracting also historians foraging for the past.
On the outskirts of Vaishali stood the grand double
storied Buddhist monastery. Buddha often discoursed here. He extended spiritual
enfranchisement to women by admitting them to the Holy Order which was founded here.
Legend has it that on one of his visits, several monkeys dug up a tank for his comfortable
stay and offered him a bowl of honey. This is regarded as one of the great incidents in the
legends of Buddha, who announced his approaching Nirvana and preached his last sermon
here.

The Lichchhavis came a long way to bid him farewell on his way to Kushinagara and
finally, they were stopped by a river created by Buddha. He once again paused to have a
last of his much loved city. As a piety for Vaishali, he had already given his alms bowl
which remained here for long time.
A life size-pillar beside a brick stupa at Kolhua commemorates Buddha's last sermon and
announcement of his approaching nirvana. The lion faces north, the direction Buddha took
on his last voyage. Adjacent to this is the tank associated with the monkeys offering honey.
Nearby are the skeletal remains of a monastery where Buddha resided and a votive stupas
dot the region. 

Vaishali museum houses some of the archaeological remains discovered here. Facing the
museum is the Abhishek Pushkarni which was holy to Lichchhavis. On one side of the lake
is newly built Vishwa Shanti Stupa, a sixth in the series to be erected in India. Close to the
museum is the shaded stupa which is supposed to have housed the casket relic with the
ashes of Buddha. 

Archaeologists have uncovered a good deal of Vaishali. It begins with a huge mound which
is associated with the ancient Parliament referred to Raja Vaihala Ka Garh. Bawan Pokhar
temple houses a rich collection of black basalt images dating back to the Gupta and Pala
period. Another black basalt, four headed Shivling (Choumukhi Mahadeva) was discovered
when a reservoir was being dug. Behind the bawan pokhar temple is a Jain temple famous

Page 17 of 45
for its image of the Trithankar. A little distance from these temples lies the Lotus Tank
which used to be a picnic spot of the Lichchhavis. 

Further north at Lauria Areraj, 31 Kms from Motihari, lies one of the Ashokan Columns
with six of his edicts. The column is devoid of its capital. Another Ashokan column along
with the lion capital can be visited at Nandangarh, 23 kms from Bettiah. These pillars
possibly mark the course of the ancient Royal highway from Patliputra to Nepal valley.
Few kilometers from the monolith at Nandangarh is the mighty brick stupa which is
believed to have stored the casket relic containing the ashes of Buddha. At Nandangarh one
can also see a dozen vedic mounds that contain the remains of ruling clans of pre-Buddhists
times.

General Information
 Altitude: 52 metres
 Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C: Summer 44/21  Winter 23/6
 Rainfall:120 cms
 Best Season: October to March

What to See

Ashokan Pillar: Emperor Ashoka built The Lion Pillar at Kolhua. It is made of a highly
polished single piece of red sandstone, surmounted by a bell shaped capital, 18.3 m high. A
life-size figure of a lion is placed on top of the pillar. There is a small tank here known as
Ramkund. This pillar beside a brick stupa at Kolhua commemorates Buddha's last sermon.

Bawan Pokhar Temple: An old temple built in the Pala period stands on the northern bank
of Bawan Pokhar and enshrines beautiful images of several Hindu gods

Budha Stupa-I: The exterior of this stupa which is now in a dilapidated condition has a
plain surface. One eighth of the sacred ashes of the lord Buddha were enshrined here in a
stone casket.
Budha Stupa-II: Excavation at this site in 1958 led to the discovery of another casket
containing the ashes of the Lord Buddha.

Abhiskek Pushkarn (Coronation tank): It contains water

that was believed to be sacred in the old days. All of
Vaishali's elected representative were anointed here before
their swearing in. The Lichchavi stupa was located near here.
The stone casket of the sacred ashes of Lord Buddha were
enshrined here in Vaishali.

Page 18 of 45
Kundalpur: Birth place of Lord Mahavira. 4Km.It is believed that the Jain Tirthankar,
Lord Mahavir was born over 2550 years ago. Mahavir is said to have spent the first 22
years of his life here.

Raja Vishal ka Garh: A huge mound with a circumference about one Kilometer and walls
nearly 2 m high with a 43m wide moat around them, is said to be the ancient parliament
house. Over seven thousand representatives of the federal assembly gathered here to
legislate and discuss the problems of the day.

Shanti Stupa: On the south bank of the coronation tank, built by Buddha Vihar Society.

How to Reach

 Air: The nearest airport is Patna (70 Kms).

 Rail: Hajipur on the north eastern railway station
(35 Kms) from Muzaffarpur Railway station (40
Kms)
 Road: Vaishali is well connected by road to Patna
(56 Kms), Muzaffarpur (36 Kms) and Hazipur (35 Kms)

Where to Stay

Tourist Bungalow: Ambapali Vihar, Vaishali-844128. Ph.0622-285425.

     Rooms available: Non-A/C Room (Dbl.),Non-A/C Room (Sngl.) and  Dormitory Beds.
     Facilities: Restaurant, Coach/Car Parking
Youth Hostel:
     Room available: Non-A/C Room (Dbl.), Dormitory Beds.

Shopping

Local Handicrafts, Stone Sculptures and Madhubani Paintings.

Destinations :: Rajgir
Page 19 of 45
Rajgir just 15 kms from Nalanda is located the complex of temples and monasteries.
The place is called Rajgir. It is one of the most important tourist places in India.
Being located in a valley, Rajgir is a very scenic place. The small hill grit town is
covered with lush green forest which add to the beauty of the place. Rajgir was the
capital of the Magadh Mahajanpad (State) when Patliputra was not formed. In those
days it was called Rajgrih. Rajgir or Rajgrih means the home of Royalty. This place
has been associated with Lord Buddha and Buddhism. Buddha not only spent many
years in Rajgir but also delivered sermons here and proselytized emperor Bimbisar
at the Griddhakoota hill. The Jivekarmavan monastery was the favorite residence for
Buddha. Even Bimbisar gave Venuvan Vihar to Buddha for his residence. It is said
that it was at Rajgir that physician treated Buddha, Jivak after he was injured by his
cousin Devdatta.The teachings of Buddha was penned down at Rajgir and it was
also the venue for the first Buddhist Council.
Today Rajgir has come up as one of the most important pilgrimage for the
Buddhist.Rajgir also has some very beautiful Hindu and Jain temples which attracts
Hindus and Jains also to the place. Not only as a place for worship, Rajgir has come
up as health and winter resort with its warm water ponds. These ponds are said to
contain some medicinal properties which help in the cure of many skin diseases. The
added attraction of Rajgir is the Ropeway which takes you uphill to the Shanti Stupa
and Monasteries built by the Japanese Devotees on top of the Ratnagiri hills.

General Information
 Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C: Max. 40/Min. 20 Winter-Max. 28 Min. 6
 Rainfall:186 cms (Mid-June to Mid-September)
 Best Season: October to March.

What to See

Jarashand ka Akhara: This is the Ranbhumi where Bhima and Jarasandh fought
one of the Mahabharat battles.

Jivakameavan Gardens: Seat of the Royal

Physician's dispensary where Lord Buddha was
once brought to have wound dressed by Jivaka,
the royal physician during the reign of
Ajatshatru and Bimbisara.

Ajatshatru Fort: Built by

Ajatshatru (6th century B.C.),
the king of Magadha during
the Buddha's time. The 6.5
sq.meter Ajatshatru's Stupa is
also believed to have been
built by him.

Cyclopean Wall: Once 40

Km long, it encircled ancient
Rajgir. Built of massive
undressed stone carefully

Page 20 of 45
fitted together, the wall is one of the few important Pre-Maurayan stone structures
ever to have been found. Traces of wall still subsist, particularly at the exit of Rajgir
to Gaya.

Shanti Stupa: The Vishwa Shanti Stup is located on a 400 meter high hill. The
stupa is built in marble and on the four corners of the stupa are four glimmering
statues of Buddha. To reach the top of this hill one has to come through the
“Ropeways”. This place is also called the GriddhKoot.

Venu Vana: Site of the monastery Venuvana Vihar built by king Bimbisara for
Lord Buddha to reside. This was the king's first offering to Lord Buddha.

Karanda Tank: It is the tank in which

Buddha used to bathe.

Sonbhandar Caves: Two rather

strange cave chambers were hollowed
out of a single massive rock. One of
the chambers I believed to have been
the guard room, the rear wall has two
straight vertical lines and one
horizontal line cut into the rock; the
doorway is supposed to lead to king
Bimbisara Treasury. Inscriptions in the
Sankhlipi or shell script, etched into
wall and so far undeciphered, are
believed to give the clue to open the
doorway. The treasure, according to folklore, is still intact. The second chambers
bears a few traces of seated and standing etched into the outer wall.

Bimbisar jail: his impatient saon and heir,

Ajatashatru, imprisoned King Bimbisara here. The
captive king chose this site for his incarceration,
for, from this spot he could see Lord Buddha
climbing up to his mountain retreat atop the
Griddhakuta hill. There is a clear view of the
Japanese Pagoda. The stupa of peace was built on
the top of the hill.

Veerayatan: A Jain Temple and Museum

Jain Temple: On hill crests around Rajgir, far in the distances one can see about 26
Jain Temples. They are difficult to approach for the untrained, but make exciting
trekking for those in form.

Chariot Route Marks: The Chariot Route and hell inscriptions are worth a visit for
the strangeness of the phenomenon, two parallel furrows cut deep into rock for
about thirty feet giving credence to the local belief that they were "burnt" into the
rock by the speed and power of Lord Krishna's chariot when he entered the city of
Rajgir during the epic Mahabharata times. Several shell inscriptions, the

Page 21 of 45
 undeciphered characters current in central and eastern India from the 1st to 5th
centuries AD, and engraved in the rock around the chariot marks.

Hot Springs: At the foot of Vaibhava Hill, a staircase leads up to the various
temples. Separate bathing places have been organized for men and women and the
water comes through spouts from Saptdhara, the seven streams, believed to find
their source behind the "Saptarni Caves", up in the hills. The hottest of the springs is
the Brahmakund with a temperature of 45 degree Centigrade.

Pippala cave: Above the hot springs on the Vaibhava Hill, is a rectangular stone
sculpted by the forces of nature which appears to have been used as a watch tower.
Since it later became the resort of pious hermits, it is also called Pippala Cave and
popularly known as "Jarasandh ki Baithak" after the name of the King Jarasandh, a
contemporary of Lord Krishna described in the epic Mahabharata
Swarn Bhandar: It is to be said that that it was a store of Gold of King Jarashandh. A
unread story about the cave is that there is a lot of gold in this cave and a script is
written on a stone is the code to unlock the door of this Swarn Bhandar.

Gridhakuta:This was the place where the lord Buddha set in a motion his second
wheel of law an for three months even during the rainy season, preached many
inspiring sermons to his disciples. The Buddha Sangha of Japan have constructed a
massive modern stupa, the Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda), at the top of the hill in
commemoration. A bridle path leads to up to the hill but it is much more fun to take
the Aerial Chair lift which operates every day except Thursday. One way ride takes
7.5 minutes and the view is splendid over the hills of Rajgir.
New Rajgir Walls, Bimbisar Road, Maniyar math, Saptarni Caves and Poppala
Stone house are the sites of tourist interest.

How to Reach

Air: The nearest airport is at Patna 101 kms. Indian Airlines connect Patna to
Calcutta, Bombay, Delhi, Ranchi and Lucknow.
Rail: Though Rajgir itself has a railway station yet the nearest convenient railhead is
at Gaya 78 kms.
Road: Rajgir is connected by road to Patna - 110 kms, Nalanda - 12 kms, Gaya - 78
kms, Pawapuri - 38 kms, Bihar Sharif - 25 kms etc. Bus : Regular buses are
available from all the above said points to Rajgir.
Local Transport: Taxis and Buses and Tongas are available.

Where to Stay

There are a number of moderately priced hotels in the town. Tourist can stay at any
of three Tourist Bungalows maintained by the Bihar State Tourism Development
Corporation.
Facility Available: Restaurant, CTV, Conference Hall, Coach/Car Parking.
Rooms available: AC Room,Deluxe Room and Economy Roo

Destinations :: Pawapuri
Page 22 of 45
 Pawapuri, or Apapuri, 38 kilometers
from Rajgir and 101 kilometers from
Patna, all sins end for a devout Jain.
Lord Mahavira, the final Tirthankar
and founder of Jainism, breathed his
last at this place, and was cremated
here around 500 B.C. It is said that
the demand for his ashes was so
great that a large amount of soil was
removed from around the funeral
pyre, creating the water tank. A
marble temple, the “Jalmandir”,
was later built in the middle of the
tank, and is now a major pilgrimage
spot for Jains. Another Jain temple called Samosharan is located here.

General Information
 Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C: Max. 40/Min. 20 Winter-Max. 28 Min. 6
 Rainfall:186 cms (Mid-June to Mid-September)
 Best Season: October to March.

What to See

Jalmadir: A marble temple, the Jalmandir, was later built in the middle of the tank, and is
now a major pilgrimage spot for Jains.

How to Reach

Air: The nearest airport is at Patna 101 kms. Indian Airlines connect Patna to Calcutta,
Bombay, Delhi, Ranchi and Lucknow.
Rail: Though Rajgir itself has a railway station yet the nearest convenient railhead is at Patna
90.kms.
Road: A taxi or bus can be taken from Patna, Rajgir, Gaya or other major cities of Bihar to
visit Pawapuri.

Where to Stay

Tourists prefer to stay at Rajgir (15 km. from Nalanda). There are a number of moderately
priced hotels available at Rajgir. Tourists can stay at any of the three Tourists Bungalows of
Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation Ltd.

TOURIST CUIRCITS OF BIHAR

Page 23 of 45
  Buddhist Circuit
 Jain Circuit
 Ramayana Circuit
 Sufi Circuit
 Gandhi Circuit
 Eco Circuit

Buddhist Circuit
Vaishali: Vaishali was one of the earliest republics in the world (6th century BC).It was here that
Buddha preached his last sermon. Vaishali, birthplace of Lord Mahavira is also Sacred to Jains.
Patna: Patna once called Patliputra the capital of Bihar, is among the world's oldest capital cities
with unbroken history of many centuries as imperial metropolis of the Mauryas and Guptas
imperial dynasties.
Rajgir: Rajgir,19 kms from Nalanda, was the ancient capital of Magadha Empire. Lord Buddha
often visited the monastery here to meditate and to preach. Rajgir is also a place sacred to the
Jains, Since Lord Mahavira spent many years here.
Pawapuri: In Pawapuri, or Apapuri, 38 kilometres from Rajgir and 90 kilometres from Patna, all
sins end for a devout Jain. Lord Mahavira, the final tirthankar and founder of Jainism, breathed his
last at this place.
Bodhgaya: Near the holy city of Gaya, the Buddha attained enlightenment. The tree that had
sheltered him came to be known as the Bodhi tree and the place Bodhgaya. Today Bodhgaya, an
important place of pilgrimage, has a number of monasteries, some of them established by
Buddhists of Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka etc.
Nalanda: A great centre of Buddhist learning, Nalanda came into prominence around the 5th
century BC and was a flourishing university town with over ten thousand scholars and an extensive

Page 24 of 45
library.
Kesaria: This Stupa is in fact one of the many memorable stupa remarkable event in the life of
Buddha. Kesaria has a lofty brick mound capped by a solid brick tower of considerable size, which
it self is the remain of a Buddhist Stupa. The mound is a ruin with a diameter of 68 feet at its base
and a total height of 5½ ft. originally it was crowned by a pinnacle which must have stood 80 or 90
ft above the ground. General Cunningham dated this monument to AD 200 to 700, and held that it
was built upon the ruins of a much older and larger Stupa.
It is the highest Stupa found in the country with a height of about 104” from the base.

Jain Circuit
Rajgir: Rajgir,19 kms from Nalanda, was the ancient capital of Magadha Empire. Lord Buddha
often visited the monastery here to meditate and to preach. Rajgir is also a place sacred to the
Jains, Since Lord Mahavira spent many years here.
Pawapuri: In Pawapuri, or Apapuri, 38 kilometres from Rajgir and 90 kilometres from Patna, all
sins end for a devout Jain. Lord Mahavira, the final tirthankar and founder of Jainism, breathed his
last at this place.

Ramayan Circuit
Tar (Bhojpur): Situated about 10 kms North West of Piro the village derives its name from Tarka,
a she demon killed by lord Rama. There is an old tank in the village that is said to be the wrestling
ground of Tarka.

Ahirauli (Buxur): Situated about 5 kms north-east of Buxur, this village has a temple of Devi
Ahilya. According to the local tradition it dates back to the pre historic ages. Legend is that, Ahilya
was transformed into stone as a result of curse of her husband, Rishi Gautam and she could be
redeemed only when lord Ram Chandra visited her place.

Ram Rekha Ghat (Buxur): According to the legends, lord Ram Chandra and his younger brother
Lakshman with their teacher Rishi Vishwamitra had crossed the Ganga here on their way to
Janakpur where he later took part in the Sita swayambar (the public ceremony of Sita's Marriage).

Pretshila Hills (Gaya): About 8 kms North-West of Gaya, the 873 feet high Pretshila Hills is
situated. The literal meaning is the Hill of ghosts and it is sacred to yam, the Hindu god of hell and
forms one of the sacred places of pilgrimage. On the top of the hill is a small temple, appropriately
dedicated to Yam (The God of death).

Giddheshwar (Jamui): According to local legends, the epic fight between the vulture Jatayu and
the demon Ravan took place here on the hill that is situated about 13 km south of Jamui, while the
latter was abducting Sita. There is a temple of Lord Shiva, which draws big crowds on the occasion
of Shivratri and Maghi Purnima.

Kako (Jehanabad): Situated 10 km each of Jehanabad Railway station. According to a local

legends, Lord Ramchandra’s step mother, Rani Kekaiy of Ayodhya lived here for some time and
the village took its name after her. The village has also a tomb of Hazarat Bibi, Kamal Sahiba; a
great muslim lady saint. I is said that this lady was the aunt of Haryat Makdum Saheb of Bihar
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Sharif and Possessed devine powers.

Singheshwar Asthan (Madhepura): Singheshwar Sthan has been the abode of Lord Siva from
the ancient times. Though there are various stories about the establishment of the Singheshwar
temple, the one that is widely and popularly accepted, relates to Rishi Shringi. In ancient time
Singheshwar was situated on the bank of the river Kosi and was surrounded by dense and lush
green forest. It was ideally situated for ‘Tapasya’ (Meditation) and it is here that Vibhandak Rishi
along with is son Rishi Shringi devoted all his time in deep meditation.

Phullahar (Madhubani): The village is situated about 6 kms West of the block headquarters at
Umgaon under Harlakhi P.S. The village countains the temple of Goddess Girija. It is said that
Sita, the daughter of king Janak, used to come here every day to worship the Goddess. Lord Rama
saw her for the first time at this place.

Sita Kund (Munger): A village about 6 Kms East of the Munger town contains a hot spring
known as the Sita Kund spring, which is so called after the well known episode of Ramayan. Ram,
after rescuing his wife Sita from the demon king Ravan, suspected that she could not have
maintained her honour intact, and Sita, to prove her chastity, agreed to enter a blazing fire. She
came out of the fiery or deal unscathed, and imparted to the pool in which she bathed, the heat she
had absorbed from the fire. The hot spring is now enclosed in a masonry reservoir and is visited by
large number of pilgrims, specially at the full moon of Magh.

Ramchura (Vaishali): The place is situated in Vaishali block, where a fair is held every year on
Ram Nawami day. the local tradition has it that lord Ram Chandra had a stopover here for a bath
on his way to Janakpur. There are some marks on stone, which are said to be his footprints.

Ahilya Asthan (Darbhanga): The village is situated about 24 kms North West of Darbhanga and
about 4 kms from Kamtaul Railway Station. It is known for the temple of Ahilya Asthan, which is
associated with the well known legend of the sage Gautam and his wife Ahilya as told in the epics
and Puranas. Inside the Shrine is a flat stone said to contain the foot prints of Sita, wife of Ram, as
the main object of worship.

Janki Temple (Sitamarhi): This temple is traditionally considered to be the birth place of Sita or
Janki, the daughter of king Janak. This temple, however seems to have been built about 100 years
ago.

Janki Temple (Punausa): This temple is about 5 kms South West of Sitamarhi. It also Stakes the
same claim to be the birth place of Sita and is considered to be sacred place where people go for a
pilgrimage.

Haleshwar Asthan (Sitamarhi): This is an ancient temple of Lord Shiva about 3 kms North-West
of Sitamarhi. According to myths the King of Videha on the occasion of Putrayesthi Yojna,
founded this temple.

Panth Pakar (Sitamarhi): An age old banyan… tree still stands here about 8 kms North-East of
Sitamarhi. It is said that when Sita left Janakpur in a Paanquin for Ayodhya after the marriage to
Shri Ram, she was given rest for a while under this very banyan tree.

Chanki Garh (West Champaran): Also known as Janaki Garh, this village is situated about 9
kms East of Ram Nagar Railway Station. There is a large mound in the eastern part of the village.

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It is a mass of solid brickwork and is 90’ high. It was probably originally a Fort and the remains of
fortification can still be seen. The local tradition asserts that it was a Fort of king Janak.

Valmiki Nagar (West Champaran): This is a village on the Indo Nepal border 42 kms North-
West of Bagaha to which it is connected by a metalled road. A barrage has been constructed here
on the Gandak river for the purpose of irrigation. Besides an old Shiva temple constructed by the
Bettiah Raj, there are also ancient temple of Nara Devi and Gauri Shankar at Valmiki Nagar.
There is a Valmiki Ashram, which is said to be the place where Maharshi Valmiki was living. On
the occasion of Makar Sankranti every year a fair is held on the bank of River Gandak.

Sufi Circuit
Maner Sharif (Patna, Maner): It is a large village of historical antiquities, situated in the extreme
north west of Danapur Sub-division, about 32 kms west of Patna on Patna-Arrah Highway. In the
early ages Maner was a centre of learning and it is said that grammarian Panini, and also
Bararuchi, lived and studied here. Maner contains two well-known Mohammedan tombs, that of
Shah Daulat or Makhdum Daulat, known as Chhoti Dargah, and the other that of Sheikh Yahia
Maneri or Makhdum Yahia, called the Bari Dargah. Makhdum Daulat died at Maner in 1608, and
Ibrahim Khan, Governor of Bihar and one of the saint's disciples completed the erection of his
mausoleum in 1616. The building is exceptionally fine one, with walls containing carvings of great
delicacy and high finish. A great dome crowns it, and the ceiling is covered with carved
inscriptions from the Quran. Every detail of it is characteristic of the architecture of Jehangir's
region, and it is by far the finest monument of the Mughals in Eastern India. Inside the compound
there is a mosque also built by Ibrahim Khan in 1619, whiles a fine gateway bearing an older
inscription corresponding to 1603-01, and affords access to the north. The tomb of Yahia Maneri
lies in a mosque walls and ghats, and pillared porticos jutting out into it, which is connected with
the old bed of the River Sone by a tunnel 400-ft long.

Khankah Mujibia (Phulwari Sharif, Patna): Nearly 7 kms from Patna Railway Station,
Phulwari Sharif is an important Islamic pilgrimage. It has been always a favorite abode of Sufi
saints in various times. Hazrat Pir Muzibullah Quadri was one of those in the 18th Century. The
Khankah Muzibia, founded by him at Phulwari Sharif is called the Bari Khankah. An old Madarsa
here has been the most important centre for teaching of Islamic philosophy since its establishment.
Sacred hairs of the beard of Paigamber Hazrat Muhammad Saheb are preserved here in Banri
Khankah that attracts throngs of his followers and a big mela is held every year.
There is also an archeologically important and worth seeing ancient Sangi Masjid (mosque) built
of red stones at Phulwari Sharif. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Humayun.

Khankah Emadia (Mangal Talab, Patna City, Patna): One of the off-springs in the family of
prominent Sufi Saint Hazrat Pir Muzibullah Quadri had founded another Khankah during 19th
century near a tank called Mangal Talab that is situated in the Patna City Chowk area. It is called
Khankah Emadia that houses a Madarsa. An Urs is held here annually when throngs of devotees
assemble and pay their respect to their beloved Sufi Saint.

Dargah Sharif, Mithan Ghat (Patna City, Patna): A beautiful double storied mosque was built
by Mughal Prince Azim on the banks of Ganges at Mittan Ghat, Patna City area that was
previously called Azimabad during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. This mosque was
built for Mulla Mittan who was teacher of the Prince. It was the place from where the great Sufi

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Saint Hazrat Makhdum Munnem used to preach his disciples during the 18th Century. The ancient
mosque still exists and is popularly known as Dargah Sharif. Every year, after 5 days of "the Eid
festival, an annual Urs Chiraga is held here when devotees assemble at this Dargah Sharif in great
numbers.

Hajipur Karbala (Vaishali): It was constructed 175 years ago by Shah Alam. It attracts a large
crowd of Muslims throughout the years.

Hasanpura (Siwan): The village is situated about 21 kms South of Siwan on the bank of Dhanai
river. According to tradition, Makhdum Saiyed Hasan Chisti, a saint who came from Arabia to
India and settled here, founded this village. He also founded a Khankah (religious institution) here.
The village contains remains of a large mosque and tomb of the Saint, which is visited by both
Hindus and Muslims. The grave is a large open court to the west of the village. In front of it is a
basalt image of Vishnu but it has been ruthlessly treated. It is regarded as an inauspicious fiend
who has turned into stone by the holy Makdum and must not be raised or placed erect. It contains
no inscription but its style shows it to belong to about the seventh century A.D.

Bibi Kamaal Sahiba (Kako, Jehanabad): The village is the headquarters of the block of the same
name and is situated on the Jehanabad-Bihar Sharif road, about 10 kms East of Jehanabad railway
tation. According to a local legend, Ram Chandra's stepmother, Rani Kaikeyi of Ayodhya lived
here for sometime and the village took its name after her. The village took its name after her. The
village has also a tomb of Hazrat Bibi Kamaal Sahiba, a great Muslim lady saint. It is said that this
lady was the aunt of Hazrat Makhdum Saheb of Bihar Sharif and possessed divine powers.

Bari Dargah (Bihar Sharif, Nalanda): This is headquarters of Nalanda district that lays 30 kms
South of Bakhtiarpur on NH-31. This is also a railhead on the Bakhtiarpur Rajgir branch line of the
Eastern Indian Railway. This town is known as Bihar Sharif, owing to its many Muslim tombs that
still retain traces of its former importance as a Muslim pilgrimage. There is a hill called Pir Pahari,
about 1 m to the northwest of the town. At its summit is the dargah or mausoleum of the Saint
Mallik Ibrahim Bayu, round which are tem smaller tombs. It is a brick structure surmounted by a
dome and bears inscriptions showing that the saint died in 1353. Another great dargah is that of
Mokhdum Shah Sharif ud-din, also called Makhdum-ul-Mulk, died here in 1379; the inscription
over the entrance shows that his tomb was built in 1569. This tomb, which stands on the south
bank of the river, is held in great veneration by the local Mohammedans, who assemble here on the
5th day of Sawan to celebrate the anniversary of his death. The Chhoti Dargah is the shrine of
Badruddin Badr-I-Alam, famous saint who died here in 1440.

Chhoti Dargah (Bihar Sharif, Nalanda): Dargah of Makhdum Hazrat Sultan Ahmed
Charampose, Bihar Sharif (Nalanda).
The biggest and the oldest building of Mohalla-Amber in the Bihar Sharif Town (Nalanda), is
Tomb of Hazarat Makhdum Sultan Saiyad Shah Ahmed Charampose Teg Barhana Rohmatulla
Alaib. He was born in the year 1236 and passed away in 1335 (according to Islamic calendar 657-
776 Hizri). He is ranked to a very high order among other Sufi saints and Auliahs.
Thousands and thousands of people participate in the ‘Urs’ celebrated here in memory of the Saint
every year.

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Gandhi Circuit
Motihari (East Champaran): Motihari was to the first laboratory of Gandhian experiment in
Satyagraha and probably it will not be very incorrect to say that is has been the spring board for
India’s independence. Champaran district generated a wave of enthusiasm and inspiration to the
people who were thirsting for a selfless and saintly leader. The technique followed by Gandhiji in
Champaran was what attained later on the name of Satyagraha.

Hazarimal Dharamshala, Betia (West Champaran): It is at Betiah in the Lal Bazar area. Gandhi
and his companions used to camp here and it was the epicenter of his “Satyagraha”. The State
Govt. has declared this building a protected monument. The Betia Raj Kuteherry and the
Dharmashala were Mahatama Gandhi stayed are well worth visit.

Bhitharwa Ashram (West Champaran): It is a village in the Bettiah Sub-division under

Gaunaha Block. This was one of the centre for social work selected by Gandhiji, when he was in
Champaran in 1917.
                At present there is a Khadi Centre working under direct control of the Bihar Khadi
Samiti. There is a Gandhi Ashram where Mahatma Gandhi had stayed during the Indian freedom
straggle.

Brindaba (West Champaran): It is a small village in the Betia sub-division under Champatia
Block. It has the Gram Seva Kendra, which had been planned to work out the deals of the Gandhi
Seva Sangh. The all India Gandhi Seva Sangh held there annual conference at this village in 1937.
Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Rajendra Prasad attended it. Gandhiji stayed here in 1939 and started an
Ashram, which is still functioning.

Shri Rampur (West Champaran): Situated in the Gannaha Block of Bhitiharwa Panchayat.
Gandhiji had stayed here on 16th November, 1917.

Koeldih (West Champaran): Under Gaunaha Block in the Belwa Panchayat. Gandhiji had visited
this place on 16th November, 1917.

Amolwa (West Champaran): Under Gaunaha Block in the Majharia Panchayat, where Gandhiji
spent a night on the 27th April, 1917 with his other companions.

Murli Bharhawa (West Champaran): It was the native place of Pandit Raj Kumar Shukla who
had been a close associates of Mahatma Gandhi during the Champaran Satyagrah Movement.
Pandit Shukla took a lead role in bringing Mahatma Gandhi to Champaran.

Sariswa (West Champaran): This place is in Ratanmala Panchayat under Majhaulia Block-
Gandhiji and his companions had taken statement of raiyats in a open yard in front of the temple.

Hardiya Kothi (West Champaran): It is under Bishunpur Panchyat of the Nautan Block. It was
house of Mr. G. P. Edward, a British Indigo Planter. Remains of this building are in some what
better condition in comparison to other such old buildings.

Sadaquat Ashram (Patna): It is situated in Digha area on Patna Danapur Road and in pre
independence days guided the freedom movement in Bihar. It is Associated with the memories of
Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Mautana Mazharal Haque and other leaders.

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Gandhi Sangrahalay (Patna Museum): Close to the Western end of Gandhi Maidan in Patna.
The Gandhi Sangrahalaya houses a large number of items and artifacts related with Mahatma
Gandhi and his satyagrah movement in Bihar. It also has a vast collection of Gandhian literature
and photographs depicting his life and works. A “Charkha” (Country made spinning wheel) used
by Mahatma Gandhi is also well preserved in this museum.

Eco Circuit
Kakolat (Nawada): It is a waterfall in Gobindpur police-station, about 21 miles away from
Nawada. After going 9¼ miles from Nawada on Ranchi Road, a pucca road known as Gobindpur
—Akbarpore Road diverts from there. Just below the fall there is a deep reservoir natural in
character. The fall is about 150 to 160 feet, from the ground level. The scene is panoramic due to
all-round green forest area, which is very pleasant to the eyes.
A legend is prevalent that in Treta Yuga a king named was cursed by a rishi and had to take the
shape of a python and lived here. The place was visited by the great Pandavas during their exile
and the accursed king got salvation from the damnation. The king after getting rid of the curse
proclaimed that one who would bathe in the waterfall will not take the yoni of snake and that is
why a large number of people from far and near bathe in the river. A big fair is held on the
occasion of bishua or Chait Shankranti.

Bhimbandh (Munger): It is situated at a distance of 56 km from Munger, 20 km from Jamui

Railway Station and 200 km from Patna Airport. Bhimbandh Wild Life Sanctuary is located in the
south west of Munger District. The forests cover an area or 681.99 sq.km on the hills and
undulating tract of Kharagpur Hills.
This forest are located in the famous Kharagpur hill range, south of river Ganga and is surrounded
on all sides by non-forestry areas inhabited by dense population. The vegetation of these forests is
very rich where Sal, Kend, Semal and other trees grow side by side the hilly terrain, protecting
from the sun’s rays the forms and humble creepers which grow below.
A host of animals such as Tiger, Leopards, Sloth Bear, Nilgai, Sambhar, Barking deer, Wild Beer,
four horned Antelope use to abide by in these forests. In the valley portions and at the foothills are
several hot springs of which the finest are at Bhimbandh, Sita Kund and Rishi Kund. All the hot
springs maintain nearly same temperature round the year, and seasonal fluctuation of discharge is
also nominal. Among them the Bhimbandh group of springs have the maximum temperature (52°
C to 65° C) and discharges (0.84-1.12 cum/sec) and constitute the best area for the exploration of
geothermal energy potential.

All the thermal springs of sanctuary have a common geological frame. The spouts issue from the
contact of massive guartzites (jointed and crushed) with states and phyllites (Kharagpur Group).
All the springs are situated at topographic lows within the guartziter. The aqueducts formed due to
fracturing are long and narrow zones of fissures and broken rocks.
There are number of places of tourist interest nearby the Sanctuary like, Rishikund, Ha-Ha Punch
Kumari, Rameshwar Kund, Kharagpur Lake, Sringrishi etc. There are Tourist lodge and Forest
Rest House that offer accommodation facilities to tourists in the mid of the forest.

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 FAIRS & FESTIVALS
Sonepur Fair - A Tradition through the Ages
A traditional Fair that has remained pristine in its charm through the ages it is also the largest cattle
fair in Asia.
Legend has it that two brothers, devotees of Lord Vishnu, one wily and the other honest, cast a spell
upon each other making one an elephant and the other a crocodile. On a Kartik Purnima day, the
honest elephant went to the confluence of the holy river Ganga and Gandak to bathe and was attacked
by the wily crocodile. Lord Vishnu himself intervened and helped the good triumph over the evil.
With Lord Vishnu's help the elephant prevailed upon the Crocodile.
Boats at the river banks, a large no. of elephants, camels, horses, cows, buffaloes, oxen, goats, dogs,
cats & birds for sale, loosely robed sadhus (holy men), freshly washed animals, shops on the
pavements overflowing with goods, swirling crowds in colourful dresses and joyful moods, curious
onlookers-such are the scenes that dominate this wonderful fair.
A unique Fair in which imposing Indian elephants are the prime attraction. The central draw of the
fair is cattle trade. All species of birds, poultry, bovines and beasts of burden specially elephants,
have a market here.
The post-harvest season for paddy crops coincides with this fair. Sales are brisk in food grains,
readymade garments, agricultural implements, weapons, furniture, perfumes, costume jewellery,
handcrafted folk toys and utensils in wood, copper, brass and steel.
The fair entertains visitors with 'nautanki'- a typical traditional musical drama performance. Other
attractions are the circus, magic shows, fortune-telling parrots, and pedlers of fancy goods.
The Sonepur Mela is indeed A Fair to remember, year after year.

Fair Duration: A fortnight following the first full moon day in the Hindu month of Kartik Shukla
Paksh (Kartik Purnima), which occurs in the period October/ November. Precise duration to be
checked up every January.

How to reach: Sonepur is 25 kms across the river Ganga from Patna, the capital city of Bihar, which
receives direct daily flights from Delhi and Calcutta, and is a major railway junction also linked by
road to important towns on the Calcutta-Delhi route.

Where to stay: Fully furnished Swiss-type Cottages (with attached western toilets) in the Tourist
village set up at the Sonepur Fair grounds, supported by catering and security facilities, and offering
complimentary elephant ride.

Pitripaksha Mela
Gaya, a divisional HQ town, is believed to have been blessed by Lord Vishnu with
divine powers to absolve one from all his/her sins.

Lakhs of Hindu believers from different parts of India and abroad gather here or
"Pitripaksha Tarpan" or "pindadaan" or offering of prayers for salvation of their ancestors' souls,
particularly during the fortnightlong Pitripaksha Mela or festival of souls. The festival is organized in
the Hindu calendar month of Ashwin (September-October), and the event is usually inaugurated at a
special function held outside the Vishnupad Mandir.

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The famous Vishnupad Mandir is in the centre of the town, built over Lord Vishnu's footprint. This
footprint on a rock inside the temple is set in a silver basin.

The 30 - metre high temple is supported by eight rows of beautifully carved pillars which support the
pavilion. This pavilion was refurbished in 1787 by Rani Ahalyabai of Indore.

The "pindadaan" ritual is performed at the 48 "Vedis" or altars, spread over different areas of the
town. Besides the Vishnupad Mandir and the sacred Phalgu river, Ramshila, Pretshila, Akshaywat
and Baitarni are other important points where the rituals are performed.

It is believed that the deceased ancestors leave Lord Yamaraja's region for their homes on earth
during the fortnight. The rituals performed during the period, thus, gratify the ancesors' souls for
years. Pitripaksha gives us a chance to repay the debt to our ancestors by gratifying their spirits.
Yamaraja, the lord of death, enables the dead ones to go to the earth and receive offers from their
descendants.

It is believed that one owes three main debts Devarina (debt to gods), Rishirina (debt to guru) and
Pitririna (debt to forefathers). Only after the "pindadaan" is offered to the deceased ancestor, he
attains a position among the "pitris" or Divine Fathers in their abode called Pitriloka. Generally, the
"pindadaan" offered by the son is considered the most desirable and efficacious.

The Gaya district administration makes special arrangements for the pilgrims coming to the town
during the fortnight. Hotels, guest houses and dharmashalas are places to stay.

Saurath Sabha (Madhubani)

In the summer month of June, the people of Mithila in the village of Saurath organize a unique
marriage mart in a mango orchard. During this fair, parents whose children are of marriageable age
come here and the Mithila Brahmins settle a record number of marriages during this time.

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 Festival in Bihar
 From the time immemorial India as a nation is known for colorful festivals. People celebrate and
enjoy these festivals promoting love, harmony, brotherhood and peace. Bihar also has long list of
festivals which are celebrated with gaiety and tolerance. Though Bihar celebrates almost all the north
India festivals, it has a festival that is unique to the state. Tourism in Bihar invites you all to enjoy the
festivals in Bihar.

Chatth Puja is a unique festival where the setting sun is worshipped in Bihar with
reverence. With full tradition Chatth festival is celebrated twice a year once in Chaitra
(according to the Hindu calendar) in March and in Kartik in November. People especially
women maintain sanctity and purity from one month
ahead for this weeklong festival. Traditional folk
songs are sung in the honour of ‘Surya Dev’ and
‘Chatti Maiyya’ in every village as well as town.
Women fast for the good of their family and the
society. On the eve before Chhath, houses are
scrupulously cleaned and so are the surroundings.
The ritual bathing takes place on Chhath eve and lasts
at the crack of dawn on the sixth day after the festival
of Diwali.

Sama-Chakeva >>This festival is celebrated in the Mithila region of Bihar dedicated to

the brother- sister relationship. It is time when birds migrate from the Himalayas to the
plains heralding the beginning of this festival with the girls making and decorating clay
idols of various birds. Sama-Chakeva represents the tradition of Mithilanchal as well as the
art of making idols. This festival starts with the welcoming of the pair of birds sama-
chakeva. People perform various rituals and the festival joyfully ends with the ‘vidai’ of
sama and with a wish that these birds return to this land the next year.

Ramnavami >> Ramanavami festival is celebrated with traditional reverence and gaiety
in Bihar with people observing seven days fasts. This is the auspicious day when lord
Rama was born. Temples dedicated to Lord Rama are beautifully decorated and special
prayers are carried out.

Makar-Sankranti >> This festival marks the end of winter and beginning of the summer
season. It is also known as Tila Sankranti. Every year it is observed on the 14th of January.
People celebrate it by giving offerings to the poor.

Bihula >> This festival is celebrated in the Eastern Bihar especially famous in Bhagalpur
district. People pray to goddess Mansa for the welfare of their family.

Madhushravani >> Madhushravani is celebrated in the month of Sawan (Hindu calendar

August all over Mithilanchal in Bihar with enthusiasm and reverence.

Buddha Jayanti >> On Buddha Jayanti in the month of Vaisakh (April/May), Buddhists
from India and abroad throng to Bodhgaya and Rajgir.
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 Mahavir Jayanti >> There are two major Jain festivals: Mahavir Jayanti (April) which is
celebrated with great pomp on Parasnath hill and Deo Diwali (10 days after diwali) which
marks the final liberation of Lord Mahavira in Bihar.

Saurath Sabha >> Every year for a fortnight in June, the village of Saurath in Madhubani
district witnesses a unique gathering of Mithila Brahmins from all over India.It is called
Saurath Sabha and is the biggest marriage market. Parents of marriageable children bring
horoscopes and negotiate marriages in a vast mango grove.

Another unique ritual confined to Bihar is the Pind-daan performed by the Gayawals in Gaya. It is
considered to be an obligation of all devout Hindus to visit this place after the death of their parents, a
mandatory rite believed to bring salvation to the departed souls. Though the pind-daan can be
performed almost any time of the year, people prefer to do it during Pitrapaksha, which is the period
just before Navratri and generally falls in September.

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 Art and Crafts of Bihar

Mithila Paintings:
Madhubani art native to the region of Mithilanchal is a creative folk
painting done traditionally by the women. The paintings show
symbolic motifs, the religious Gods and Goddesses such as Durga,
Radha and Krishna, Shiva and Parvati. Women do the paintings in
natural colors on walls, depicting animals such as elephants, fishes,
parrots, the sun and moon and giant flowers. The colors range from
vibrant red, yellow and green to ochre, brown and black. The pigments are taken from
spices, minerals, charcoal, vegetable matter, flowers and plants depicting special events and
aspects of everyday life. These paintings in both black and white and strong primary colors
are now professionally produced on paper, canvas and textiles for international and national
exhibitions etc.

 Sujini and Khatwa Embroidery:

A traditional quilt sujini is made with layers of clothes mainly in the rural areas. Old
clothes are used for the inner stuffing and cotton or colorful threads are used for the
embroidery. The embroidery is done in running stitch in a scale pattern. The sujini depicts
village and religious scenes such as bride in palanquin, peacocks dancing, boy flying kite,
etc. Khatwa is the applique work of Bihar used to craft decorative tents, canopies,
shamianas, etc. The applique designs for tents are Persian type trees, flowers, animals,
birds, etc. For canopies the whole design with circular central motif is cut out of a single
cloth.

Wood Inlay:
One of Bihar's ancient industries wood inlays continues to be done with different materials,
metal, ivory and stag-horn. Artists create decorative pieces like wall hangings, table tops,
trays, and a number of utility articles with inlay work. One can see beautiful pieces of trays,
boxes and other articles for household use are produced using this craft. The designs are
colourful and geometrical.

Lacquerware:
In Bihar lac has been used for making beautiful items like boxes and bangles etc since ages.
Sindurdan the vermilion container given in marriage is one of such decorative piece made
by laheris community. The boxes are beautifully decorated with the motifs of fish, chakra
and peacock. Traditionally the bride's parents present her a round conical box, with a nose
ring at the marriage with the symbols of fertility and longevity engraved on its red body.

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Stonecraft:
Bihar has rich legacy of handicrafts and stone craft .It is visible and alive from the ancient
pillars of the Mauryan period. Patharkatti in Gaya district is the traditional stoneware centre
in Bihar. This area supplies in abundance the blue black pot stone from which artisans craft
Buddhist icons, images and household articles like the pestle, the mortar kharal (medicine
grinder).

Printed Textiles:
Bihar has made its name in textile printing which is done on cotton, wool and silk.Some
districts and towns for example Bhagalpur, Bihar Sharif, Darbhanga, Saran and Patna are
well known for this craft. In Gaya, it is common to find the religious textiles with the
names or footprints of deities printed all over in ochre or red. The chunris of Bihar deserve
special mention. Beautiful designs are printed in these chunris which are traditional as well
as floral and animal forms. At Sursand in North Bihar only mica (khari) printing is done
with bright colours are used extensively.

Sikki Work:
The humble blade of grass is hand-woven into the delightful baskets and mats. They are
popularly given to brides during marriage.

Other handicrafts:
Bihar also has tradition of leather craft, tikuli making and papier –mache art .These arts are
being recognized all over the world and showcased in international and national
exhibitions. Beautiful objects are crafted in traditional and floral designs with bright
colours.Religious scenes and gods and goddesses are also painted especially on papier-
mache articles.

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 Cuisine of Bihar
 Enjoy the most traditional Bihar Cuisine on your visit to Bihar in India. The Bihar is
famous for its varied and distinct cuisine .All the regions have their own cooking styles and
tastes. But most people prefer simple food consisting of bhat
(Rice),dal(lentils),roti(wheat),vegetables and achar. Uncooked sprouts soaked in water are
also consumed with choora bhunja and Makhana.

The famous jhal moori (puffed rice with sprouts,peanuts and green chillies)is a favouite
snack in most parts of the state. Khichdi, the broth of rice and lentils, seasoned with spices,
and served with thick curd, chutney, pickles, papads, ghee (clarified butter) and chokha
(boiled mashed potatoes, seasoned with finely cut onions, green chilies) constitutes the diet
for most people of Bihar.
Kadhi is popular with pakora eaten with plain rice.Salad with cabbage,raw
peas,onions,tomatoes,cucumber,coriander eaves,beet root,carrot and fresh winter
vegetables are served in huge thali's along with the food. Sattu (flour of fried grams) is
another ingrediant which is used extensively in Bihar. There are many dishes made with
sattu like litti,Sattu ki Roti etc. In rural areas of Bihar, doughed sattu is being consumed
with some salt and pickels.
There are several other traditional snacks and savouries which are consumed during
festivals and ceremonies. Pua, prepared from a mixture of powdered rice, milk, ghee
(clarified butter), sugar and honey and its variant Malpua is favourite with most
people.Pittha and Bakha, steam cooked, mixture of powdered rice is prepared in North
eastern Bihar.Chiwra, beaten rice, served with a coat of creamy curd and sugar or jaggery
is popular in central Bihar.Makhana (a kind of water fruit) cultivated around Muzzaffarpur
is prepared from lotus seeds and is taken puffed or as kheer, prepared with milk and sugar
is must during marraiges and religious ceremonies.Sattu, powdered baked gram, is a high
energy giving food is consumed in rural Bihar.
It is taken mixed with water or with milk. Sometimes, sattu mixed with spices are used to
prepare stuffed 'chapattis', locally called as 'makuni roti'.Litti/Choka, prepared with sattu
and wheat flour and taken with mashed potato and brinjals is common dish found
everywhere from hotels to roadside dhabas. The distinctive Bihari flavor of the non-
vegetarian dishes like Kebabs, Mutton preparations is very appealing. Bihar is famous for
Behari Kebabs a non-vegetarian dish favourite with many people. Some of the other
famous dishes like Keema (minced meat), Murgh Masallam (a chicken delicacy), Naahari
(broth with chunks of meat, cooked overnight is popular all over Bihar.

 Most Bihari households take delight in preparing kebab, zardah, biryani, sheer maal
during holy month of Ramzan and religious festivals like Eid. Baqarkhani a type of
round bread prepared during marriages in Bihar has got its name from one of the
Persian governors Baqar Khan. Bihar offers variety of sweet delicacies like-
Ladoo,Khurma,Balushahi,Anarasa,Khaja,MotichoorKa Ladoo,Kala
Jamun,Kesaria,Peda, Parwal Ka Mithai,Khubi Ka Lai,Belgrami,Tilkut,Thekua and
Chena Murki to the tourist . Some of these delicacies owe their origin to towns for
example Khaja from Silao Nalanda, Ladoo from Bihar Sharif, Kala Jamun from
Vikram, Khubi ka Lai from Barh, Tilkut and Kesaria Peda from Gaya
,balushahi from Harnaut and Chena Murki from Koelwar.
Page 37 of 45
 TOUR PACKAGES (Itineraries)

 Buddhist Circuit (Special Package Tour - 1)

 8 Days 7 Nights Buddhist Circuit Package Tour:

 Patna – Bodhgaya – Rajgir – Vaishali Kesaria – Lumbini -Kushinagar -

Sarnath-Patna
Ex-Patna

Day-1- Pick up from Airport/Railway Station. Check-in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Breakfast /
Lunch/Dinner, Local Sight Seeing.
Day-2- After Breakfast Departure for Bodh-Gaya, Check-in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch, Local
Sight Seeing, Free time & Dinner, Night Stay at Bodh-Gaya
Day-3- After Breakfast Departure for Rajgir, Check-in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch, Local Sight
Seeing, Free time & Dinner, Night stay at Rajgir.
Day-4- After Breakfast Departure for Muzaffarpur via Vaishali(sight seeing at vaishali) Check-in
Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch, Sight Seeing at Kesharia, Free time & Dinner, Night Stay at
Muzaffarpur
Day-5- After Breakfast Departure for Lumbini, Check-in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch, Local Sight
Seeing, Free time & Dinner, Night stay at Lumbini.
Day-6- After Breakfast Departure for Kushi Nagar, Check-in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch, Local
Sight Seeing, Free time & Dinner, Night stay at Kushi Nagar.
Day-7- After Breakfast Departure for Sarnath, Check-in in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch, Local Sight
Seeing at Sarnath, Free time & Dinner, Night stay at Varanasi/Sarnath.
Day-8- After Breakfast Dept. For Patna Airport/Railway Station.

Package Includes :-
* Pick up & drop from Airport / Rly. Station, * Local Sight Seeing of all the places of Tourist
Interest.
* Accomodation in twin sharing basis, *Breakfast, Buffet Lunch & Dinner.

Package Costs:
  INR  
By A/C Deluxe Bus Rs.19,000/Pax Minimum 20 Persons
By Non A/C Deluxe Bus Rs.17,500/Pax Minimum 20 Persons
By Toyota Qualis (MPV) Rs.20,500/Pax Minimum 4 Persons
By Non A/C Ambassador (Car) Rs.18, 000/Pax Minimum 4 Persons
 

Buddhist Circuit (Special Package Tour - 2)

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  4 Day & 3 Night BUDDHIST CIRCUIT Package Tour

 PATNA-VAISHALI-KESHRIA-RAJGIR-BODHGAYA- EX-PATNA

Day-1- Pick up from Airport / Railway Station; Wash & Fresh, Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner, Departure
for Vaishali, Local Sight Seeing, Departure for Kesaria, Night Stay at Muzaffarpur
Day-2- After Breakfast Departure for Rajgir, Check-in- in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch, Local Sight
Seeing, Free time & Dinner, Night stay at Rajgir.
Day-3- After Breakfast Departure for Bodhgaya, Check-in in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch, Local
Sight Seeing, Free Time & Dinner, Night Stay at Bodhgaya.
Day-4- After Breakfast Departure for Bodhgaya/ Patna, Airport/ Railway Station.

Package includes:
* Pick up & drop from Airport / Railway Station
* Local Sight Seeing of all the places of Tourist Interest.
* Accommodation in twin sharing basis, *Breakfast, Buffet Lunch & Dinner.
. Package costs:
  INR  
By A/C Deluxe Bus Rs.6,500/Pax Minimum 20 Persons
By Non A/C Deluxe Bus Rs.5,500/Pax Minimum 20 Persons
By Toyota Qualis (MPV) Rs.7,100/Pax Minimum 4 Persons
By Non A/C Ambassador (Car) Rs.6,100/Pax Minimum 4 Persons
 

Jain Circuit
 Special Package Tour - 8 Days & 7 Nights Jain Circuit Package Tour

 PATNA–PAWAPURI KUNDALPUR – RAJGIR GUNAVAJEE LACHHUAR

CHAMPANAGAR PARASNATH (MADHUBAN) – EX-PATNA

DAY-1- Pick up from Airport/Railway Station. Check-in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Breakfast /
Lunch/Dinner, Local Sight Seeing.
DAY-2- After Breakfast, Departure for Rajgir, Check-in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch, Local Sight
Seeing, Free Time & Dinner, Night Stay at Rajgir.
DAY-3- After Breakfast, Local Sight seeing at Pawapuri, Free Time & dinner, Night Stay at Rajgir
DAY-4- After Breakfast, Departure for Lachhuar, Check-in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch, Local
Sight Seeing, Free Time & Dinner, Night Stay at lachhuar.
DAY-5- After Breakfast, Departure for Champa Nagar, Check-in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch, Local
Sight Seeing, Free Time & Dinner, Night Stay at Champa Nagar.
DAY-6- After Breakfast, Departure for Madhuban, Check-in Hotel, Wash & Fresh, Lunch,Local
Sight Seeing, Free Time & Dinner, Night Stay at Madhuban.
DAY-7- After Breakfast, Departure for Parasnath, Lunch, Local Sight Seeing, Free Time & Dinner,
Night Stay at Madhuban.
DAY-8- After Breakfast Dept. for Patna Airport/Railway Station

Package Includes :-
Page 39 of 45
* Pick up & drop from Airport / Rly. Station
* Local Sight Seeing of all the places of Tourist Interest.
* Accomodation in twin sharing basis, *Breakfast, Buffet Lunch & Dinner..
Package Costs:
  INR  
By A/C Deluxe Bus Rs.14,500/Pax Minimum 20 Persons
By Non A/C Deluxe Bus Rs.12,500/Pax Minimum 20 Persons
By Toyota Qualis (MPV) Rs.16,000/Pax Minimum 4 Persons
By Non A/C Ambassador (Car) Rs.13,600/Pax Minimum 4 Persons
 
Sikh Circuit
 Special Package Tour - 4 Day & 3 Night Sikh Circuit Package Tour

 Patna - Akbarpur - Nawada - Vaishali

DAY-1- Pick up from Air Port / Railway Station, Check-in Hotel, wash & fresh, Breakfast, Local
Sight Seeing, Harmandir Saheb, Gurudwara Gayaghat, Guru-Ka-Bagh, Guru Handi Saheb (Danapur),
Free Time, Dinner & Night Stay at Patna.
DAY-2- After Breakfast Departure for Nawada, Seeing Nanak Shahi Sangat Akbarpur in way. Seeing
Kakolat Water Fall, Packet Lunch at Kakolat, Seeing Rajauli Sangat.Check-in Hotel at Rajgir, Dinner
& Night Stay at Rajgir
DAY-3- After Breakfast Dept. for Patna, Seeing Nalanda in way, Packet Lunch at Nalanda. check-in
Hotel, Dinner night Stay at Patna.
DAY-4- After Breakfast Dept. for Railway Station/Airport.

Package Includes:
* Pick up & drop from Airport / Rly. Station
* Local Sight Seeing of all the places of Tourist Interest.
* Accommodation in twin sharing basis, *Breakfast, Buffet Lunch & Dinner.
Package Costs:
  INR  
By A/C Deluxe Bus Rs.6,500/Pax Minimum 20 Persons
By Non A/C Deluxe Bus Rs.5,500/Pax Minimum 20 Persons
By Toyota Qualis (MPV) Rs.7,500/Pax Minimum 4 Persons
By Non A/C Ambassador (Car) Rs.6,100/Pax Minimum 4 Persons
Note:
Rates are subject to change without prior notice.

Findings……….
With its rich heritage of antiques, artifacts, historical facts and figures going into its favour, Bihar is a
blend of beautiful and bountiful nature, natural resources, the vital sparkling pure water, important
archaeological finds, and rich culture. It has been attracting domestic and foreign tourists from the
Page 40 of 45
ancient times. The Travelogues of the Chinese travelers Huen Tsang and Fa-Hien describe historical
splendor of Bihar which offers much to tourists irrespective of their age and class.

Herein, lies the history of the young prince of Nepal, Siddharth, transforming into Lord Buddha by
getting enlightenment through sheer penance at Bodh Gaya under the sacred Bodhi tree which is
attracting the Buddhists tourists for ages from across the world. Bihar has 22 Nirvan Sthals of 24 Jain
Tirthankars attracting the people following the Jain religion. Development of these tourist's sites has
been undertaken on a large scale to promote religious tourism.

Tourism has established itself as 'smokeless' industry in the world and its role in the socio-economic
development of a country is well established. Bihar government has also given tourism the status of
industry and development works in this pursuit have been undertaken.

After division of Bihar many tourism destinations went geographically into the fold of Jharkhand
state. Now Bihar needs afresh.Its new distinct Tourism Policy to be planned in a manner to promote
tourism industry as a vital part of the vibrant economic activities of the state.

Problems and solutions

Awareness of Tourism:

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  Tourism provide economic dimension to the development of the state. With this point
of view seminar, quiz competitions, drawing competitions, exhibitions and display of
films on tourism are to be organized. Tourism literature would be provided to
participating children to mark their awakening in this respect. Besides, inclusion of the
contents of tourism literature in curricula of schools and colleges would be mooted to
bring this in the education system. Educational tourism at school and college levels
would be promoted for which tour programmes of the students would be packaged.
Stress will be on opening tourism and hotel management institutes to involve youths in
tourism and that way solving their unemployment problems.

Basic Infrastructure for Tourism:

 Keeping in view a great potential of tourism in Bihar, the creation of basic

infrastructure for tourism development is imperative. Important components for
infrastructural development are-- Arranging accommodation for increased number of
tourists, building of highways on tourist circuits, international level airports with total
aviation back up and facilities, local transport, rail routes linking tourist spots with full
amenities and facilities, the vital telecommunication link, continuous quality
electricity supply with elaborate arrangements, and other essential amenities.

 The state government as well as the private sector shall contribute their mite in growth
of tourism infrastructure with the state playing the lead role of a catalytic agent in
some sectors. The state will endeavor to promote private sector participation in
infrastructural development for the tourism industry.
 Efforts will be made to dovetail external assistance, central assistance and state plan
resources with private investments to attain the set goals as under the Master Plan.
 The state government will prepare an area-based Master Plan for developing
infrastructure as necessary for the respective areas and regions. Potential of the tourist
destinations will figure in developing the tourism sector as per the Master Plan. The
Master Plan will evolve Investment Plan for segment wise (area wise) tourism
development. The investment plan would be further subdivided into annual action
plans to achieve the set growth targets as per the directed goals under the Master Plan
to be achieved in a time bound manner. New areas to be brought under pursuit of
tourism development are water tourism, health tourism, Ayurvedic medicine, Yoga,
Spiritual tourism, tourism entailing courageous feats, promotion of Shilp Gram (Crafts
Village) and development of recreational facilities to attract tourists.
 Tourism entails multi-sectoral activities with participation of several agencies. Efforts
will be made to coordinate the agencies participating in the tourism development
endeavor by evolving suitable administrative mechanism.

Accommodation:

 Accommodation is crucial component of tourism as it entails catering to different

categories of tourists whose expenditure limits may be quite low to very high. This
makes arranging for differentiated accommodations from economy class in big halls
and dormitories to five star hotels and resorts. Such basic accommodations in different
tourist destinations would be augmented.
 The state will endeavor to promote private investments in hospitality (hotel) industry
on a major scale while restricting itself to invest only in the areas where there is slim
possibility of private investments.

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Heritage Hotels:

The state government would encourage establishment of Heritage Hotel movement in

Bihar by identifying heritage buildings and mansions to convert them to Heritage
Hotels in order to provide quality accommodation to tourists. This would save the
precious heritage buildings and mansions from getting dilapidated with their quality
face uplift and strengthening during conversion to Heritage Hotels.

Paying Guest Scheme:

 The state government will explore and develop the possibilities for launching paying
guest scheme by identifying and registering the houses, house owners and families
interested in this stream of tourism development. Good facilities to attract the tourists
would be the hallmark of this scheme.

Way side facility (Hospitality Resource Creation on Highways):

 Way side facility is an important part of tourism. In this vein, comfortable rest houses
fitted with basic amenities on highways� flanks, alongside the fuel filling stations
(petrol pumps), would be created with public and private investments.

Investment in Core Structure of Tourism:

 Investments available through financial institutions will be promoted and encouraged.

Proposals will be sent to the Tourism Financial Corporation of India for investment in
tourism through the state government and the NRIs.
 A special cell will be opened to facilitate loan and the needed guidance to the
entrepreneurs seeking involvement in tourism development. .

Fair and Festivals:

 Keeping in with the tradition of organising the cultural and religious fair and festivals,
the state government would integrate these to tourism . For this the department of
tourism would identify the potential tourist spots where fair and festivals form the part
of cultural life and develop such sites for a scheduled package tours and travels timing
well during fair and festivals.

Tourist Information Centres:

 Tourist information centres of the state government would be modernized well

equipped with the modern information and communication technology (ICT)-
computer, fax, internet, email etc. This would provide abundance of information to the
tourists regarding tourist places, hotel bookings, transport facilities and the likes.

Development of Handicraft and Cottage Industry:

 Tourism development is interlinked with the development of handicraft and cottage

industry. The state government would exploit this potential for which establishment of
Shilp Gram (Craft villages), handicrafts market near the tourist place is in the agenda
for tourism development.

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 Tourism with Wildlife:

 Tourism linked with wildlife has a lot of potential for attracting domestic and foreign
tourists. In order to promote wildlife tourism the state would develop wildlife
sanctuaries, crocodile parks, snake parks, theme parks, children parks, monument
parks, tourist house and restaurants.

Guides:

 The government would select the right people, well behaved, educated and trained
with good manners, good communication skills on the posts of guide and grant them
licenses for being posted at different tourist spots. The state government would be
looking forward to select such guides to brand a distinct style of tourism to put Bihar
on international map of tourist destinations.

Regional Tourism/Cooperation with Neighbouring States:

 Elaborate arrangements in coordination with tourism development corporations of the

neighbouring states has to be done to tap the unlimited potential of tourism within the
region. Effective coordination in utilizing the tourism inputs of the states within the
region and elaborate arrangement for inter-state movement of tourists would be the
hallmark in promoting regional tourism.

Development of Light and Sound System:

 Effective light and sound system for entertaining tourists would be developed at the
tourist sites including the historical sites.

Conservation of Historical and Cultural Heritages:

 The government would ensure encouraging private sector participation in maintenance

of historical and cultural heritages with an aim to promote tourism. For this
cooperation of the central department of archaeology, religious trusts, municipalities,
and municipal corporations would be sought. Besides, the voluntary rganizations and
NGOs can also do this job on stipulated terms and conditions. For this the government
will constitute a technical committee comprising renowned historians, archaeologists
and engineers. The private sector or voluntary organsations would manage such
heritages (sites) in order to ensure awareness of heritage tourism.

Publicity and Extension:

 Publicity and extension has to play an important role to disseminate information about
the tourist places across the world. For this tourism department participates in national
and international exhibitions with expositions of its tourist sites. For the promotion
and extension of Bihar tourism advertisements are published in newspapers and
magazines. For important tourism features the help of electronic media will also be
taken.

Rural Tourism:

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 In the coming years the rural tourism will take its shape playing an important role. As
a majority of people live in villages in Bihar the linking of the villages to tourism
development will encourage the tourists to enjoy the country life. A move in this
direction would generate rural employment linked to tourism. The department will
take all possible measures to promote rural tourism adding a new dimension in dotting
the state with rural tourist spots.

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