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A state offering a rich landscape, a bounty of heritage monuments, and a distinctive culture, Bihar is a true treasure for those who take their time to explore it. As a destination with excellent connectivity and much to explore, it is truly a backpacking destination under the wraps, waiting to be explored.
This article will help you in planning a perfectly joyous and fun-filled backpackers’ trip to Bihar.
Commuting to & within Bihar
Bihar is well connected to all other states through air, land, rail and water, so you can easily find multiple modes of transportation to reach your destination. For those of you flying in, Patna has an international airport. In addition, you can easily find various private and government buses and trains running into and through the cities of Bihar.
In addition to this, you can easily find tempo and local taxi services for travel within the cities like Patna, Rajgir, Gaya, and many other cities. The most affordable option is the tempo which can be hired on a sharing basis and will take around INR 5 for each KM covered. Alternatively, if you are travelling solo, you can choose to rent a two-wheeler for comfort and safety.
Places to Cover in Bihar
1. Gaya and Bodhgaya
Yes, Gaya and Bodhgaya are different places located at a distance of 16 KM from each other. Bodhgaya is known for being one of the most important Buddhist Pilgrimage sites as it is home to the Mahabodhi Temple Complex.
The complex holds various relics, items, and places related to Buddhism, including a pagoda and the Bodhi Tree. In addition to this, you will find multiple monasteries, lakes, and archaeological museums here, which reflect the beauty and historical significance of multiple cultures.
The diversity of culture is not only limited to Indian temples and monasteries, as you will find an array of Chinese and Thai monasteries here, which will bestow upon you the perfect architecture of their regions.
Two of the best backpacking spots here are the Dungeshwari Cave Temples and the Barabar Caves. Their rustic charm and the way they still look intact has made them a must-visit spot. On your quest to explore Bodh Gaya and Gaya at their best, you can take up various group tours, including a food tour and a walking tour in which the city will introduce you to the best it has to offer.
Explore: Heritage Walking Tour, Gaya
2. Nalanda
Home to the Nalanda Mahavihara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this district is one of the best places to visit in Bihar. Everything about this place stuns history lovers, from its ruins exhibiting the grandeur of the past to museums that preserve the relics.
Located in the ancient kingdom of Magadha, this township was once home to a very prosperous university, ruins of which can still be seen. Other than the archaeological destinations, Nalanda also holds memorial halls, museums and various other attractions. Since Nalanda is a small town, these attractions can be covered easily within a day, making the trip affordable.
3. Vaishali
Finding its origin back in the Mahabharata times, Vaishali is one of the main cities in Bihar. This place has everything you need for a fun-filled trip, from top-notch cafes to budget stays and pocket-friendly activity options. We recommend that you spend at least two days here if you wish to explore the place truly.
One of the most backpacker-oriented attractions in Vaishali is Raja Vishal Ka Ghar. Now in ruins, this palace was built on the top of a hill and overlooked the whole city. However, on the corners of this ruin lie numerous pillars standing intact and describing this fort’s vigour.
Another famous place you must visit here is the World Peace Pagoda, which was built to pay homage to those who died in the Hiroshima-Nagasaki bombing during the second world war. A good hike leads you up to the pagoda, where brilliant views of the town welcome you with air and sunshine.
4. Patna
The capital city of Bihar, Patna is on the southern banks of Ganga. With modern-day facilities, cafes, and all else you need, this city is lovely for walks, good food, and a refined lifestyle. You can easily find budget-friendly homestays in Patna, which provide you with a glimpse into the local culture.
Patna is also home to many famous tourist attractions, which can be easily visited by hiring local buses and other means of transportation. Places like the Padri ki Haveli and Golghar hold an exceptional place in the history of this state, and you can experience the same by taking a tour.
5. Rajgir
Being a small town, Rajgir amazes people with its plethora of activities and attractions. From the Makhdum Kund to Bimbisara’s jail and Venu Vana to Swarn Bhandar, one will find an array of places to visit here.
Since you have all your bags already packed, you can go for a trekking session in Rajgir at places like the Vulture Peak. In addition to this, you can also climb the famous Shanti Stupa, which lies on the hill. For additional fun, you can choose to take the aerial tram ride to the top of the stupa and can enjoy some of the most beautiful views of the surrounding valley from above.
Adventure Activities to Do in Bihar
1. Water Adventures
Since the mighty stream of river Ganga flows through the center of this state, you will stumble upon an array of activities that you can enjoy here. From taking a cruise on the Ganga river to enjoying adventurous water sports on Ganga beach, you will find various activities to enjoy here.
Some must-try watersports include Kayaking, Banana rides, Water Surfing, Speed Boating, and many more.
2. Waterpark Visits
Bihar is home to numerous famous waterparks, which can turn out to be the perfect place to spend some time refreshing and rejuvenating. From big and bouncy slides to large, cool and clean pools, all the waterparks here are excellent for some fun time with your loved ones. Some of the famous water parks which you can visit here include the Hungama World, Patna and Funtasia Waterpark, Patna
3. Exploring Waterfalls
Famed for its natural beauty, Bihar is dotted with numerous hidden gems in the form of gurgling waterfalls. Surrounded by the hills and having the river streams flowing through it, you will stumble upon multiple sproutings around many famous areas. Some of the best waterfalls which can be explored in Bihar include the Manjhar Kund Falls, Karkat Waterfall, Tutla Bhawani waterfall, Telhar Waterfall, and the Kakolat Waterfall.
4. Aerial adventures
Did you know that you can go paramotoring in Patna? Take a flight of about 500 m into the sky, flying above the iconic spots of Patna with professional guide and safety equipment all covered for you. If you’re up for a group adventure instead, you can also take a hot air balloon ride in Patna. Take in breathtaking views of the city as you float above in this unique adventure activity.
Fun Things to Do in Bihar
Try Local Cuisines
When thinking about the food options in Bihar, the first thing which comes to mind is Litti Chokha. However, this is not the only dish you will enjoy here as this state is known for many more preparations.
From the sweetness of Thekua to the spice of Reshmi Kabab, a lot of variety is offered in Bihar. If you are a fan of Mughalai delicacies, then make sure that you visit Takshila. The flavors available for this cuisine are genuinely worth trying once.
Famed in the name of Litti Chokha Stall, you will find a small street-side location which will offer the best “Litti Chokha” in town. This stall is so famous that many Bollywood actors have also tried littis here.
For regular munching, you can visit Vasant Vihar, which is known for being a home to numerous small restaurants and stalls which serve Indian snacks like samosas, kachoris, and other items like poori bhaji and chole bhature at a minimal price.
Explore the Tribal Culture of Bihar
Covering around 15% of Bihar’s total population, the tribals of this state are known for following their culture and customs. For example, the town of Mithila is still indulging in making marvelous paintings using old methods, which continue to stun a global audience year after year. Similar is the case for the metal art industry, which has been the main job of around 70% of tribals. On your visit to Patna, explore the Patna Museum and take tours of places like Silk City, Madhubani, and the old gullies of Patna to learn about what Bihar’s artisans bring to the table for the rest of the world.
With all this being said, we can finally accept that Bihar is and will remain the perfect place for backpackers who wish to travel on a budget. From stay options to food and even travel, everything here is a brand new experience to outsiders, thus making Bihar an upcoming destination for the backpacker crowd of India and the world.
