Top 10 Travel Destinations of Bihar in 2025: A City-Wise Guide to Must-Visit Places
Introduction
Bihar, Magadha Back in history is a very special land of rich culture, heritage, Spirituality, and natural beauty. Bihar is a treasure trove of unique travel destinations. Its ancient ruins, sacred temples, serene landscapes, and vibrant cultural hubs offers something for every traveller. Whether you are a history buff, or adventurer, or an off-beat explorer Bihar has something to offer every kind of a person.
In this guide, we explore the Top 10+ Travel Destinations of Bihar in 2025, categorized city-wise with details on must-visit places, travel tips, and itineraries.
Top 10 Travel Destinations in Bihar by City
1.Patna – The Historical Capital
Pataliputra, the capital of the Magadha Jana pada is now Patna, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Dating back to over 2.500 years Pataliputra, was founded by Ajatashatru, the Magadha king. It was the capital city of great dynasties like Mauryas and Guptas. Under the rule of these powerful kingdoms this city flourished as a epic trade centre, centre of learning, and administration. Emperor Ashoka made Buddhism flourish under his rule.
Patna Museum:
Jadu Ghar, is another name for this museum. This is a must-visit place of Patna. This museum offers much to history and art lovers. It holds a very rare Mauryan and Gupta-era sculptures, Buddhist relics, and the famous Didarganj Yakshi.
Timings: open from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM, except on Mondays and public holidays.
Entry fee: ₹15 for Indian visitors, ₹250 for foreign tourists, and an additional charge applies for photography and videography. Located in the heart of Patna, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Bihar’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Golghar:
A massive granary in Patna, was built in 1786 by Captain John Garstin. The main aim was to store the excess grain and prevent famines after the devastating 1770 Bengal famine. The structure is a stupa-shaped, 29-meter-tall building with walls 3.6 meters thick, designed to hold 140,000 tons of grain. This structure has no pillars. A spiral staircase leads to the top of the structure and offering the panoramic views of the Patna City.
Timings: 9.30 A.M to 6.00 P.M every day.
Fee: ₹10 per person.
Mahavir Mandir:
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is one of the most revered temples and attracts millions of devotes annually. Located near Patna Junction, this temple is known for its grand architecture, spiritual significance, and charitable activities. The famous Naivedyam prasad, a type of besan ladoo, is a major attraction. The temple remains a center of faith, devotion, and social service in Bihar.
Darshan Timings:
- Morning: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon Break: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Aarti Timings:
- Mangala Aarti (Morning): 5:30 AM
- Shringaar Aarti (Noon): 12:00 PM
- Sandhya Aarti (Evening): 7:00 PM
Patna Sahib Gurudwara:
Located in Patna also known as Harmandir Sahib Patna, is one of the Major five Takhts in Sikhism. It marks the birth place of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the 10th Sikh Guru, born in 1666. This gurudwara was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 18th century. This gurudwara holds rich religious and historical significance. It houses sacred relics, including Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s weapons and manuscripts.
Patna Planetarium (Indira Gandhi Planetarium)
One of the largest planetariums in India, it offers fascinating shows on astronomy and space science, making it a great destination for science enthusiasts.
Kumhrar
An archaeological site showcasing the ruins of Pataliputra, the ancient capital of the Maurya dynasty. Visitors can explore remains of the Mauryan-era hall with 80 pillars.
Agam Kuan
An ancient well believed to date back to Emperor Ashoka’s time, associated with myths and legends. It is considered a sacred site with historical significance.
Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park (Patna Zoo)
A well-maintained zoo featuring a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and migratory birds. It is a popular spot for families and nature lovers.
Buddha Smriti Park
A beautifully designed park with a grand stupa and meditation centre, built to honour the teachings of Lord Buddha. It also houses sacred relics of the Buddha.
Gandhi Maidan
A historic ground in the heart of Patna, known for hosting significant political events and cultural programs. It is a great place for leisure walks and enjoying local street food.
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2. Bodh Gaya – The Spiritual Hub
Mahabodhi Temple:
This is a UNESCO world Heritage Site and one of the most sacred places in Buddhism. In the history this is the place where Gautama Buddha attained Enlightenment. This temple was originally built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century. this temple features a grand pyramidal spire, intricate carvings, and a serene atmosphere that attracts pilgrims and tourists from around the world.
Bodhi Tree:
A sacred fig tree under which Buddha meditated.
Great Buddha Statue:
A towering statue of Buddha, perfect for meditation and photography.
3. Nalanda – The Ancient Learning Center
Nalanda University Ruins:
Located in Bihar the Nalanda University Ruins, are the remains of the world’s oldest and most renowned centers of Learning.
The Nalanda University Ruins, located in Bihar, India, are the remains of one of the world’s oldest and most renowned centers of learning, dating back to the 5th century CE. Nalanda flourished under the patronage of the Gupta Empire and later Buddhist dynasties, attracting scholars from across Asia. The university was a hub for Buddhist studies, philosophy, medicine, and astronomy before being destroyed by invaders in the 12th century. Today, the ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, include monasteries, temples, and an extensive library complex, offering visitors a glimpse into India’s glorious academic past.
Entry Fee
- Indians: ₹15 per person
- Foreigners: ₹200 per person
- Children below 15 years: Free
Timings
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Closed on: Fridays
Nalanda Archaeological Museum:
The Nalanda Archaeological Museum was built in 1917. This Museum is a house of artifacts excavated from the Nalanda Maha vihar which is the one of the oldest universities. The Museum showcases sculptures, seals, fort items, inscriptions, and bronze statues.
Entry Fee
- Indians: ₹5 per person
- Foreigners: ₹100 per person
- Children below 15 years: Free
Timings
- Open: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed on: Fridays and public holidays
Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall:
This Memorial Hall is dedicated to the famous Chinese traveller Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang). This traveller visited India in the 7th century AD. Built in traditional Chinese architectural style, the memorial hall houses manuscripts, relics, and exhibits related to Xuanzang’s travels and contributions.
Entry Fee
- Free
Timings
- Open: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed on: Fridays
4. Rajgir – The Serene Hill Town
Griddhakuta Peak:
Gridhakuta Peak, also known as the Vulture’s Peak. This is a significant Buddhist site located in Rajgir, Bihar. This was the Lord Buddha’s Favourite meditation point. This is the place where he delivered several sermons, parts of Lotus sutra, and Prajnaparamita. This Peak’s shape is like Vulture, that is why the name Vulture’s Peak. Here there is a Shanti Stupa built by Japanese. You have the rope way facility to reach the peak.
Entry Fee
- Free
Timings
- Open 24 hours (Ropeway operates from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Venuvana Vihara:
Venu vana Vihara, Located I Rajgir, Bihar. This was a royal monastery gifted to lord Buddha by the King Bimbisara of Magadha, this is the first monastery of Magadha where Buddha resided when visited Rajgir. Today, the site features a serene park with a pond, a Buddha statue, and lush greenery, making it a tranquil spot for visitors and pilgrims. Today, the site features a serene park with a pond, a Buddha statue, and lush greenery, making it a tranquil spot for visitors and pilgrims.
Entry Fee
- ₹10 per person
Timings
- Open: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Rajgir Ropeway:
The Rajgir Ropeway is Bihar’s only ropeway, offering a thrilling ride to the top of Ratnagiri Hill, where the Vishwa Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda) is located. Built in 1960, this single-person chairlift provides breathtaking views of Rajgir’s lush green hills and historic sites. The ropeway is a popular attraction for pilgrims and tourists visiting the Buddhist and Jain heritage sites in the region.
Entry Fee
- ₹80 per person (round trip)
Timings
- Open: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed on: Thursdays
5. Vaishali – The Birthplace of Democracy
Vaishali is an ancient city in Bihar. It was the capital of Vijji Maha jana pada. This place is considered as the birth place of world’s first republic. This is the place where Lord Buddha preached his last wisdom before attaining the Mahaparinirvana.
This place is also holding a major significance in Jainism as the birth place of Lord Mahavir, The 24th Thirthankara.
Ashoka Pillar:
The Ashoka Pillar is in Vaishali Bihar. This pillar is one of the many pillars built by Emperor Ashoka and the main theme of these pillars is spread the word of Buddhism. Made of polished sandstone, this pillar stands about 11 meters tall and is crowned with a beautifully carved single lion capital, symbolizing strength and Dharma.
Entry Fee
- Free
Timings
- Open: Sunrise to Sunset
Buddha Stupa
The Buddha Stupa in Vaishali, Bihar, is an ancient Buddhist monument believed to house the relics of Lord Buddha. It is divided into two stupas:
- Buddha Stupa 1: Contains a casket with Lord Buddha’s ashes, as per excavations.
- Buddha Stupa 2: Holds terracotta artifacts and ancient sculptures, reflecting the region’s Buddhist heritage.
These stupas mark Vaishali’s significance as the place where Buddha preached his last sermon, making it a revered pilgrimage site.
Entry Fee
- Free
Timings
- Open: Sunrise to Sunset.
Vaishali Museum:
The Vaishali Museum, located in Vaishali, Bihar, showcases artifacts excavated from this ancient city, which was once the capital of the Vajji Mahajanapada. Established to preserve the rich history of Vaishali, the museum displays terracotta objects, pottery, seals, inscriptions, bronze idols, Buddhist relics, and sculptures from the Maurya, Gupta, and Kushan periods. It provides insights into Buddhism, Jainism, and the historical legacy of Vaishali as one of the world’s earliest republics.
Entry Fee
₹5 per person
Timings
Open: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed on: Fridays
Travel Itinerary for Bihar
Day 1: Arrival in Patna
- Explore Patna Museum and Golghar.
- Visit Mahavir Mandir in the evening.
Day 2: Bodh Gaya
- Spend the day at Mahabodhi Temple and the Great Buddha Statue.
- Meditate under the Bodhi Tree.
Day 3: Nalanda and Rajgir
- Visit Nalanda University Ruins and the Archaeological Museum.
- Head to Rajgir for Griddhakuta Peak and the Rajgir Ropeway.
Day 4: Vaishali and Gaya
- Explore Ashoka Pillar and Buddha Stupa in Vaishali.
- Visit Vishnupad Temple and Barabar Caves in Gaya.
some additional mentioning’s .
Gaya – The Pilgrimage City
Gaya is in Bihar state and has a very rich history, strong significance. This city is famous for its connection to Buddhism and Hinduism.
1. Mahabodhi Temple (Bodh Gaya)
This temple is A UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where Lord Buddha attained the enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.The temple complex houses a large Buddha statue and serene meditation spots.
2. Vishnupad Temple (Gaya)
This is a sacred temple dedicated to Sri Lord Vishnu. It is said that footprint of Lord Vishnu imprinted on a rock here so the name Vishnupada temple. Here this place is crucial for Hindu ritual named Pitrudaan for ancestors.
3. Dungeshwari Cave Temples (Bodh Gaya)
These caves are also known as Mahakala Caves. At these caves Buddha practiced severe penance before enlightenment.
4. Barabar Caves (Near Gaya)
These caves are located 25km away from Gaya. These caves are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India. Dating back to Mauryan period, these caves have highly polished interiors and inscriptions from the Emperor Ashoka.
Bhagalpur – The Silk City
Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary: Home to the endangered Gangetic dolphins.
Colganj Rock Cut Temples: Ancient temples carved out of rocks.
Mandara Hill: A sacred hill with mythological significance.
Munger – The Yoga Capital
Munger Fort: A historic fort with stunning architecture.
Bihar School of Yoga: A renowned center for yoga and meditation.
Kastaharni Ghat: A sacred ghat on the Ganges.
Sasaram – The Land of Sher Shah Suri
Sher Shah Suri Tomb: A magnificent mausoleum of the Afghan ruler.
Rohtasgarh Fort: A historic fort with panoramic views.
Tomb of Hasan Khan Suri: The father of Sher Shah Suri.
Madhubani – The Art Capital
Madhubani Painting Villages: Explore villages known for traditional Madhubani art.
Kapileshwar Sthan: A sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Uchaitha: A village known for its cultural heritage.
FAQs on Top Travel Destinations of Bihar in 2025
- What is the best time to visit Bihar?
- The best time to visit Bihar is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.
- How can I travel within Bihar?
- Bihar has a well-connected network of buses, trains, and taxis. Renting a car is also a good option.
- Are there any adventure activities in Bihar?
- Yes, you can enjoy trekking, rock climbing, and boating in places like Rajgir and Bhagalpur.
- What are the must-try foods in Bihar?
- Don’t miss out on Litti Chokha, Sattu Paratha, and Khaja.
- Is Bihar safe for solo travelers?
- Yes, Bihar is generally safe for solo travelers, but it’s always advisable to take standard precautions.
- Can I visit all these destinations in a week?
- Yes, with proper planning, you can cover the top destinations in Bihar in a week.
- What are the entry fees for major attractions?
- Entry fees vary, but most attractions charge between ₹10 to ₹50.
- Are there any offbeat destinations in Bihar?
- Yes, places like Barabar Caves and Madhubani Painting Villages offer unique experiences.
- What should I pack for a trip to Bihar?
- Pack light cotton clothes, comfortable footwear, and essentials like sunscreen and hats.
- How do I get to Bihar?
- Bihar is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Patna Airport is the main gateway.
Conclusion
Bihar, with its rich tapestry of history, spirituality, and natural beauty, offers a unique travel experience that is both enriching and unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Nalanda, meditating under the Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya, or marveling at the intricate Madhubani paintings, Bihar promises a journey like no other. Plan your trip to Bihar in 2025 and discover the top travel destinations that this incredible state has to offer. Happy traveling!
