INTRODUCTIONBihar'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 Buddhas 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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HISTORYThe 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, crisscrossed 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
LocationBihar 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 2158' and 2731' North and longitudes 8319' and 8817'
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 LandThe 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 PeopleThe 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, Page 3 of 45
bhumihars, rajputs, and the so-called backward castes - yadavs,
koeris, musahars, chamars, and others. The hallmark of the Biharis
is a rustic simplicity with intrinsic humility coupled with
enormous selfrespect. They are traditionally very hospitable to
strangers.
The LanguageHindi 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 BiharA 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 visitThe 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.
Page 4 of 45
Profile of BiharGeographical Location Between 24 20' 10" and
273'15" North Latitude 83 19' 50" and 8817'40" 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 44C in Summer to a minimum of around 5C 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
JayaprakashNarayanInternationalAirport, Patna;
GayaInternationalAirport, Gaya High Court Patna High Court State's
Official Hindi / Urdu Languages
Page 5 of 45
People
Density of Population Population Food Habits Festivals
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 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. 880 per sq. Km. (2001 Census)
8,28,78,796 (2001 Census) Rice, Dal, Chapaties, Vegetables,
Non-Vegetarian items ; Items of Gram Flour;Litti, and Chura-Dahi
(Curd) in Mithila . 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. Madhubani Paintings, Appliqu work, Bamboo
products, Jute products Harihar Kshetra (Sonepur) Cattle Fair is
one of the biggest Cattle fair in Asia. Shrawani Fair of
Sultanganj. Male:- Kurta-Dhoti, Kurta-Pajama, Pant-Shirt Female :-
Saree , Salwar-Kurta Lakhisarai, Gaya, West Champaran and East
Champaran.
Art and Craft Important Fairs Traditional Costumes Districts
having the largest area
Page 6 of 45
CULTURE OF BIHARCulture of Bihar Besides usual rural handicrafts
like hand-painted wall hangings, wooden stools, miniatures in paper
and leaves, stone pottery, bamboo, leather goods and appliqu 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.
Page 7 of 45
DESTINATIONS BIHARTourist Map of Bihar
DESTINATIONS: PATNAPatna 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 Page 8 of 45
emerging new emerging economic opportunities in the region as
well as a gateway to the Buddhist & Jain pilgrimcenters of
Vaishali, Rajgir, Nalanda, Bodhgaya & Pawapuri.
General Information y Altitude: 53 metres y Temperature
(Max./Min.) Deg C: Summer - 40/21 Winter - Max. 20/6. y
Rainfall:120 cms y Best Season: October to March y 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 Page 9
of 45
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. 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 ReachAir: 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.
Page 10 of 45
Where to Stay 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.
Page 11 of 45
DESTINATION: BODHGAYABodhgaya 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 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 templeHieuen Tsang visited in 7th century. General
Information y Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C: Summer 47/28
Winter-28/4 y Rainfall:186 cms (Mid-June to Mid-September) y
Altitude:113 Meters y 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 Page 12 of 45
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. 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.
Page 13 of 45
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 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.
Page 14 of 45
DESTINATIONS :NALANDANalanda, 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 lifetime, this famous center of Buddhist learning
shot to fame much later, during 5th12th 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 InternationalCenter 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 y Altitude: 67 metres y
Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C: Summer 37.8/17.8 Winter 27.8/10.6 y
Rainfall:120 cm (June to September) y 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".
Page 15 of 45
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. 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 Reachy y y y y
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.06122222622 , 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.
ShoppingLocal Arts & Craft, Stone Sculptures and Madhubani
Paintings. Shopping Center: Handicraft Shops in Main Market at Kund
Area (Hot Spring) and at Aerial Ropeway. Page 16 of 45
DESTINATIONS :: VAISHALIVaishali 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
Page 17 of 45
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 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 y Altitude: 52 metres y Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C:
Summer 44/21 Winter 23/6 y Rainfall:120 cms y 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 Page 18 of 45
enshrined here in Vaishali. 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 Reachy y
y
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.
Page 19 of 45
DESTINATIONS :: RAJGIRRajgir 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 y Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C: Max.
40/Min. 20 Winter-Max. 28 Min. 6 y Rainfall:186 cms (Mid-June to
Mid-September) y 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 Page 20 of 45
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 fitted together, the
wall is one of the few important PreMaurayan 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 JainTemple: 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 Page
21 of 45
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 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 "SaptarniCaves", 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 PippalaCave 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,
SaptarniCaves 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 Page 22 of
45
DESTINATIONS :: PAWAPURIPawapuri, 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 y Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C: Max. 40/Min.
20 Winter-Max. 28 Min. 6 y Rainfall:186 cms (Mid-June to
Mid-September) y 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.
Page 23 of 45
TOURIST CUIRCITS OF BIHAR
y y y y y y
Buddhist Circuit Jain Circuit Ramayana Circuit Sufi Circuit
Gandhi Circuit Eco Circuit
BUDDHIST CIRCUITVaishali: 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. Page 24 of 45
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
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 5
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 CIRCUITRajgir: 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 CIRCUITTar (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
Ramchandras step mother, Rani Kekaiy of Ayodhya lived here for some
time and the Page 25 of 45
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 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. JankiTemple (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. JankiTemple (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.
Page 26 of 45
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. 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 CIRCUITManer 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 (PatnaCity,
Patna): A beautiful double storied mosque was built by Mughal
Prince Azim on the banks of Ganges at Mittan Ghat, PatnaCity area
that was previously called Azimabad during the reign of Mughal
Emperor Aurangzeb. This mosque was built for Mulla Page 27 of
45
Mittan who was teacher of the Prince. It was the place from
where the great Sufi 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 BiharSharifTown (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.
Page 28 of 45
GANDHI CIRCUITMotihari (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 Indias 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.
Page 29 of 45
Gandhi Sangrahalay (PatnaMuseum): 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 CIRCUITKakolat (Nawada): It is a waterfall in Gobindpur
police-station, about 21 miles away from Nawada. After going 9
miles from Nawada on Ranchi Road, a pucca road known as
GobindpurAkbarpore 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 suns 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, KharagpurLake,
Sringrishi etc. There are Tourist lodge and Forest Rest House that
offer accommodation facilities to tourists in the mid of the
forest.
Page 30 of 45
FAIRS & FESTIVALSSONEPUR FAIR - A TRADITION THROUGH THE
AGESA 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 MELAGaya, 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 Page 31 of 45
special function held outside the Vishnupad Mandir. 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.
Page 32 of 45
FESTIVAL IN BIHARFrom 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 PUJAis a unique festival where the setting sun is
worshipped in Bihar withreverence. 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.Page 33 of 45
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.
Page 34 of 45
Art and Crafts of BiharMithila 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 papiermache articles.
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CUISINE OF BIHAREnjoy 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 f