Bihar, a remarkable state bordering Nepal, is a treasure trove of historical wonders that resonate with the tales of India's rich heritage. From magnificent monuments steeped in captivating stories to esteemed Buddhist pilgrimage sites, Bihar presents a unique fusion of history and spirituality.
With Patna as its lively capital, this third-largest state by population invites travelers to immerse themselves in its ancient legacy and discover the numerous historical gems it has to offer. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the top 12 historical sites in Bihar, each telling its own timeless tale.
# Tomb of Sher Shah SuriLocated in Sasaram, Bihar, the Tomb of Sher Shah Suri commemorates the legacy of Emperor Sher Shah Suri, a Pathan from Bihar who successfully challenged the Mughal Empire. Completed on August 16, 1545, this architectural marvel was designed by the esteemed architect Alawal Khan.
Constructed from stunning red stone, the tomb exemplifies the brilliance of Indo-Islamic architecture. Standing 122 feet tall, it is often referred to as the “Second Taj Mahal of India.” Surrounded by a tranquil lake, the reflection of the tomb on the water enhances its breathtaking beauty.
# Maha Bodhi TempleSituated in Bodh Gaya, the Maha Bodhi Temple is a site of profound religious significance. Just 96 km from Patna, this temple is famous for housing the sacred Bodhi tree, under which Lord Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Maha Bodhi Temple has served as a pilgrimage destination for over 2,000 years. While it holds immense importance for Buddhists, the temple also attracts a significant number of Hindu pilgrims annually, making it a melting pot of devotion and spirituality.
# Vikramshila UniversityAbout 50 km from Bhagalpur, Vikramshila University stands as a testament to India’s rich academic heritage. Founded in the late 8th or early 9th century by Pala king Dharmapala, the university once occupied a vast 100-acre campus and was a prominent center of learning during the Pala Empire.
Unfortunately, its glory was short-lived, as it faced destruction by Muhammad bin Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1193. Originally consisting of six colleges, the ruins of this ancient institution now serve as the backdrop for the popular Vikramshila Mahotsav.
# Rohtasgarh FortPerched in the historic city of Rohtas, Bihar, Rohtasgarh Fort is one of the oldest forts in India. Historians attribute its foundation to Raja Harishchandra, who named it “Rohtas” in honor of his son, Rohitashv. Dominating the landscape, the fort is located atop a steep hill, accessible via a challenging climb of 2,000 steps.
Surrounding the fort are notable landmarks that draw visitors, including The Ganesh Temple, The Rohtasan Temple, The Aina Mahal, and Habsh Khan’s mausoleum. Beyond its architectural magnificence, Rohtas Fort symbolizes the legacy of the Kharwars dynasty, boasting an impressive total of 83 gates, each echoing stories from the past.
# Ashok PillarLocated in the historic town of Vaishali, the Ashok Pillar stands as a prominent symbol of India’s ancient history. Vaishali, known for its multitude of historical monuments, takes particular pride in this pillar. Topped with a lion statue, this monument, often called “The Lion Pillar,” was commissioned by King Ashoka. Standing 18.3 meters tall, it is crafted from exquisite red sandstone.
Next to the pillar lies the serene Ramkund tank. The inscriptions on the pillar are written in Prakrit, Greek, and Aramaic, reflecting the diverse influences of that era. A devoted follower of Buddhism, King Ashoka dedicated this pillar to commemorate Lord Buddha's final sermon.
# GolgharIn the heart of Patna, Bihar, stands the iconic Golghar. Built in 1786, this architectural wonder resembles a stupa. Designed by Captain John Garstin, a notable engineer from Bengal, Golghar was originally intended as a granary with a capacity of 140,000 tonnes.
Soaring to a height of 29 meters, visitors can reach its summit by ascending 145 spiral stairs, cleverly designed for quick access. Today, Golghar not only showcases historical ingenuity but also serves as a major tourist attraction, set against a picturesque natural backdrop.
# Caves at Barabar Hills
Located in Jahanabad, the caves at Barabar Hills highlight India’s rich architectural and historical heritage. Nestled within the twin hills of Barabar and Nagarjuna, these caves provide a peaceful and enchanting experience. The best time to explore these ancient wonders is between October and March. Due to their remote location, visitors are advised to bring essentials like food and water.
Dating back to 322-185 BCE, the Barabar Hills contain four main caves, while the Nagarjuna Hills feature three. Commissioned by Dasharatha Maurya, the grandson of King Ashoka, these magnificent caves showcase the intricate craftsmanship of that era.
# Agam KuanNestled in Patna, Agam Kuan, which translates to “unfathomable well,” is an ancient well steeped in legends and mysteries. Believed to date back to Emperor Ashoka's time, this deep well is surrounded by several small temples and is considered sacred by many.
Its historical significance and the intriguing tales associated with it make Agam Kuan a must-visit for those captivated by ancient Indian lore.
# Bihar MuseumA modern architectural gem in Patna, the Bihar Museum is a treasure trove of art, culture, and history. Showcasing Bihar’s rich heritage, the museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, sculptures, and paintings spanning various eras.
With its state-of-the-art design and interactive exhibits, the Bihar Museum provides a journey through time, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
# Harmandir Takht Shri Patna SahibLocated on the sacred banks of the Ganga in Patna, Bihar, the Harmandir Takht Shri Patna Sahib, commonly known as Patna Sahib Gurudwara, is a revered pilgrimage site for Sikhs worldwide. Each year, it attracts thousands of devotees and visitors, transcending religious affiliations and regional boundaries. The peaceful atmosphere of the Gurudwara envelops visitors, offering a profound spiritual experience and a sense of divine connection.
The Gurudwara’s magnificent white marble structure shines in the sunlight, showcasing the grandeur of Sikh architecture. Recognized as a focal point of Sikhism in Eastern India, it is undoubtedly one of the must-visit destinations in Patna.
# NalandaLocated in Central Bihar, Nalanda represents a significant chapter in India’s legacy of knowledge and learning. Renowned as one of the esteemed Mahaviharas, Nalanda is not only an ancient center of Buddhist education but also a respected pilgrimage site. This town offers a harmonious blend of history, culture, spirituality, and architectural brilliance, enriching Bihar’s cultural tapestry.
The allure of Nalanda is further enhanced by its architectural masterpieces, many of which, despite being in ruins, continue to narrate stories of a bygone era. Its serene ambiance, combined with preserved old-world charm, makes Nalanda a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.