Bihar is full of ancient history, spiritual places, and beautiful nature. From Buddhist temples to wildlife parks, it has many places worth visiting. If you want to explore something different and meaningful in 2025, here are the top 10 tourist spots in Bihar you must check out!
1. Bodh Gaya – The Land of Enlightenment
Bodh Gaya is the most famous spiritual place in Bihar. It is where Gautam Buddha got enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. This makes it one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists from around the world. The peaceful atmosphere, international monasteries, and religious chants make it a truly calming place.
Must Visit:
- Mahabodhi Temple (UNESCO Site)
- Bodhi Tree
- Great Buddha Statue
- Monasteries from Japan, Bhutan, Thailand, etc.
Tip: Visit during December-January for peaceful weather and Buddhist festivals.
2. Nalanda – Ancient University Town
Nalanda was once home to the oldest international university in the world. Scholars from China, Korea, and other countries used to study here. Today, you can walk through the ruins of this great learning center and imagine its rich past.
Must Visit:
- Nalanda University Ruins
- Nalanda Archaeological Museum
- Xuanzang Memorial Hall (in memory of the Chinese traveler who studied here)
Tip: Combine your trip with a visit to nearby Rajgir.
3. Rajgir – Hills, Caves, and History
Surrounded by five hills, Rajgir is an ancient city full of spiritual and historical places. It was the first capital of the Magadh kingdom. Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira both spent time here. You can enjoy natural beauty, ropeway rides, hot springs, and old caves.
Must Visit:
- Vishwa Shanti Stupa (on a hill, reached via ropeway)
- Hot Water Springs
- Cyclopean Wall (ancient stone wall)
- Venuvan Garden (gifted to Buddha)
Tip: Great for 1–2 day family trips with kids.
4. Patna – The Capital with Many Stories
Patna is a mix of old and new. It is the capital of Bihar and one of the oldest cities in the world. You can find religious places, museums, shopping areas, and the beautiful Ganga River here.
Must Visit:
- Takht Sri Patna Sahib Gurudwara (birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh)
- Golghar (granary with a great view)
- Bihar Museum (modern and very informative)
- Ganga Riverfront & Gandhi Ghat
Tip: Visit the Patna Zoo if you’re with children.
5. Vaishali – Birthplace of Democracy
Vaishali is important both in history and religion. It had one of the earliest known democracies. It’s also connected to Lord Mahavira’s birth and many Buddha teachings.
Must Visit:
- Ashoka Pillar
- Buddha Stupa I & II
- Relics Stupa
- Mahavira’s Birthplace Site
Tip: Visit during the Vaishali Mahotsav in March-April.
6. Pawapuri – Peaceful Jain Pilgrimage Site
Pawapuri is a quiet and spiritual town where Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, took his last breath. The Jal Mandir, built in the middle of a lake, is very peaceful and beautiful.
Must Visit:
- Jal Mandir (white marble temple in a lotus-filled lake)
- Samosharan Mandir
Tip: Carry food/snacks, as it’s a small town with limited options.
7. Kesaria – Asia’s Tallest Buddhist Stupa
The Kesaria Stupa is larger than even the famous Sanchi Stupa. It was built by Emperor Ashoka and is believed to be a gift of Buddha before his last journey. Though still under excavation, it’s a hidden gem of Bihar.
Must Visit:
- Kesaria Buddhist Stupa
Tip: Great for photographers and history lovers.
8. Valmiki Nagar – Nature, Forest, and Wildlife
If you love nature and wildlife, Valmiki Nagar is for you. It has the Valmiki Tiger Reserve, home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and more. The nearby Gandak River and the scenic Indo-Nepal border hills make it even more exciting.
Must Visit:
- Valmiki Tiger Reserve
- Gandak Barrage
- Boating and Jungle Safari
Tip: Best time to visit is between October and March.
9. Sitamarhi – Birthplace of Goddess Sita
Sitamarhi is believed to be the birthplace of Maa Sita, wife of Lord Rama from the Ramayana. It is an important place for Hindu pilgrims and has beautiful temples.
Must Visit:
- Sita Kund (holy pond)
- Janaki Mandir
- Haleshwar Sthan Temple
Tip: Visit during Ram Navami for grand celebrations.
10. Munger – Forts and Yoga
Munger is famous for its historic fort, spiritual centers, and the Bihar School of Yoga, one of the world’s best yoga institutes. Many people from around the world come here to learn yoga and live simply.
Must Visit:
- Munger Fort
- Bihar School of Yoga
- Sita Charan Mandir (footprints of Sita)
Tip: Join yoga programs for a peaceful experience.
Final Words:
Bihar is full of hidden treasures – historical, cultural, and natural. Whether you’re interested in spirituality, history, wildlife, or just want a peaceful weekend trip, Bihar has something for you.
