Among the important temples that constitute the Bihar heritage tours are:
Bihar heritage tours has been an important part of Bihar tourism. Bihar has been seat of many religious reforms. Thus it houses a number of religious sites related to the genesis of such religion and Bihar heritage tour is a tour through these sites.
Padri Ki Haveli
Built in 1772, the Padri Ki Haveli in Patna is the oldest church in the state of Bihar. The Padri Ki Haveli has an interesting history behind its inception. The church is seventy feet in length, forty feet wide and fifty feet in height. The magnificent monument was designed by Tirreto, the venetian architect who came from Calcutta. The church has withstand many attacks and act of destruction. The soldier of Nawab Mir Kasim, the ruler of Bengal looted the Padri Ki Haveli following their quarrel with the English traders. In the process, the ancient records kept inside were destroyed and burnt. The church suffered another attack during the Sepoy mutiny in 1857.
The Padri Ki Haveli in Patna today has emerged as a prime tourist attraction. Standing with its intricate details, the church is an architectural wonder. This catholic church is located in Patna Saheb, the old city area of Patna. Padri Ki Haveli was built by Father Joseph from Rovato. The large cathedral bell with inscriptions on it is a thing to see. The church has association with Mother Teresa who completed her apprenticeship in nursing from the church.
The Padri Ki Haveli is located in a very convenient position of the city and it is easily approachable. Both the religiously inclined people and the general visitors will like the place alike. The peaceful environment of the church will be appreciated by even a non religious person. Padri Ki Haveli should be in the list of priority if one is touring in Patna.
Kesaria Buddhist Stupa
Kesaria Buddhist Stupa is located in the eastern region of Champaran, a district of Bihar and is around 110 kilometers away from Patna. It is believed to be built by the Lichhavis between 200 AD to 750 AD to mark the death of Lord Buddha. Kesaria Buddhist Stupa of Bihar with a height of 104 feet, is counted as the largest stupa in the world.
Kesaria Buddhist Stupa in Bihar was excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1998. It is believed that around 200AD to 750 AD, it might had a circumference of 1400 feet. The most attractive thing about the Kesaria Buddhist Stupa is its Buddhist style of architecture and its protection till date. The design of the stupa takes you back to the era when Buddhist style of architecture was in flow.
Kesaria Buddhist Stupa at Bihar has many historical significance. It is said that once Lord Buddha spent a night at this place before his Nirvana and gave away his begging bowl to the Licchavis whom he asked to return to Vaishali after his death.
Apart from the stupa, many other things including Islamic coins, arrow heads, copper and terracotta items, earthen lamps, etc, have been discovered near the Kesaria Buddhist Stupa in Bihar. A number of Lord Buddha images in 'Bhoomi Sparsh Mudra' and other postures have been discovered from the same site.
You can reach Kesaria Buddhist Stupa at Bihar easily by using local transport form Motihari, Muzzafarpur, Patna, etc. The road network is very well maintained or you can get down at Chakaria Railway Station and take any local transport such as bus or taxi to the Kesaria Buddhist Stupa.
Sher Shah Suri
Sher Shah Suri's Mausoleum, Sasaram is one of the finest specimen of Afghani architectural style. The tomb that is made of stone rests in between an artificial lake that reflects the artistic glory and add spark to its reflection.
it the history at Sher Shah Suri's Mausoleum, Sasaram where entry is free for children up to 15 years of age. Indians are charged only Rs 5 as entry fee while foreigners have to pay Rs 100.
Jarasandh Ka Akhara
Jarasandh Ka Akhara of Bihar serves to be that historic venue where the King of Magadha named Jarasandh succumbed to the inevitable hands of death in his epic battle with the invincible Bhima, the Pandava who was dowered with gift of unearthly strength.
Jarasandh Ka Akhara in Bihar is reckoned as the sought-after venue that hosted, perhaps, the most pulse-pounding and nerve-wrecking battles in the history of India. This larger-than-life encounter between the fiercest of the Pandavas, Bhima and the ardent devotee of the rebellion Lord Shiva, Jarasandha came about in this gothic destination sited in the state of Bihar regarded as Jarasandh Ka Akhara.
As indited in the Sanskrit epic entitled Mahabharata, Jarasandha was the heir to the King Brihadratha, who in spite of innumerable efforts failed to beget any nestling. Bedeviled at the hands of cruel fate, he resorted to some spiritual guidance from a holy sage named Chandrakauskika. After spending a good deal of time in exile under the aesthetic guidance of Chandrakaushika, he was presented with a magical fruit and instructed to feed it to his wife.
Since he had two spouses, he diplomatically halved the fruit and gave it to his better halves. Destiny again took a cruel twist and he was blessed with a child but he was dissected into two halves. Dismayed and terrified, Brihadhratha commanded that they should immediately be cast far away from the city. But destiny had other plans, as the two halves were eventually joined by a human devouring witch, Jara that led to the birth of Jarasandh.
Jarasandh was a very brutal and barbarous emperor and had many kings imprisoned in his dungeons. It was Bhima and Arjuna accompanied with Krishna who challenged him to a fight at Jarasandh Ka Akhara. Jarasandh chose Bhima, the mightiest among the Pandavas to battle. It was here in Jarasandh Ka Akhara where the bone-chilling display of raw strength continued for 27 days, when at the behest of Lord Krishna, Bhima tore apart his foe into two longitudinal halves and flipped them in the opposite direction that led to Jarasandh's death.
Harmandir Takht Gurudwara
Situated at a distance of five kilometers from the Patna Railway Station, Kumhrar reminds us of the rich architectural history of our country. The historical sites of Kumhrar bear relics of the old city of Pataliputra. The ancient city of Pataliputra had been the cradle of civilization for many centuries. The city was a living witness to the architectural and cultural advancement of the golden period of our country. Kumhrar on the Kankerbagh road, was a part of the capital of the Mauryas which has many architectural remains from 600 B.C to 600 A.D. The site of Kumhrar is an important place of tourist interest which draws visitors from all over the world.
Art and Architecture received a boast during the Mauryan period. The historical site of Kumhrar shows some of the artistic skills and architectural accomplishments of the Mauryan period. The most important architectural remains of the Mauryan period in Kumhrar is the lavish and giant "eighty Pillared Hall".The hall has attracted the attention of all the historians and archaeologists. The pillars of the Hall are heavily ornamented with exquisite designs that enhances the beauty of the Hall. The Historians are abound with speculations regarding the utility of the eighty pillared Hall. Some believe that the Hall was used to address large public gatherings by the rulers or the state ministers. While others believe that the lavish Hall was constructed to display the architectural skills of the state.
However, the historical site of Kumhrar has now become a deserted place. Neither the Archaeological Survey of India, nor the State Government has taken any effective steps to preserve the ancient site of Kumhrar.
Bimbisar jail
Bimbisar jail is a place worth seeing in Bihar. This is a place of immense historical importance. It is a site which will remind you of an unfortunate father who was imprisoned at the hands of his own son.
Bimbisar jail is the prison where king Bimbisar was kept by his own son Ajatashatru so that he can enjoy the privilege to be on the throne. The prison is a historical one and bears the testimonials of the rich past of the state of Bihar.
The site of the Bimbisar jail was selected by the King himself. This was because he could witness from here the ascent of Lord Buddha to the mountain retreat at the Griddhakuta hill. King Bimbisara was a great follower of Lord Buddha. He believed in peace and thus admitted the audacity of his son.
The Bimbisar jail of Bihar is located very close to Rajgir. From here you can have a view of the Japanese Pagoda which marks the epitome of love and peace.
The place around the Bimbisar jail in Bihar is noted for its scenic beauty. It seems as if the words of the great Lord are still reverberating in the surrounding hills and each and every part of the nature is listening to them with absolute silence.
The months of October to March are the best time to visit Bimbisar jail at Bihar. If you want to go there, you need to go to Rajgir at first, which is the nearest town.
You can go to Rajgir by:
Air: Fly to Patna airport which is 101 kilometers from Rajgir. Indian Airlines fly from Patna to Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Ranchi as well as Lucknow.
Rail: Rajgir railway station is there but the nearest major railhead is Gaya, 78 kilometers away from the place.
Road: You will get well linked roadways to and from Patna, Nalanda, Gaya, Pawapuri, Bihar Sharif and so on.
Ratnagarh
Ratnagarh is located at Bodh Gaya near the Mahabodi Temple and the Bodhi tree in Bihar. Ratnagarh of Bihar is very popular amongst the Buddhist pilgrims and is valued sacred by them because it is known from the historians that Buddha stayed here for a week and it is during this period that five colors came out of his body.
Ratnagarh at Bihar is a Buddhist shrine as it hosts a large number of Buddhist temples and monasteries. Pilgrims from all across the globe visit this place. Moreover, Ratnagarh being sited in Bodh Gaya and its nearness to Bodhi tree and Mahabodi temple, makes it a must visit destination. Whoever visits the above mentioned two shrines, they do visit Ratnagarh.
Ratnagarh of Bihar also bears historical significance as you get an in-depth knowledge about the life of Lord Buddha and his teachings from this place. Moreover, you can visit the nearby Chinese, Japanese and Tibetan monasteries and participate in meditation and other activities organized by them.
Reaching Ratnagarh of Bihar is not a problem as it is very well connected by road to Bodh Gaya. You can take a flight or train till Gaya and from there you can take up any local transport such as bus or taxi to reach Ratnagarh.
Though you can visit Ratnagarh in Bihar at any time during the year but the best time to visit it would be between October and February when you can enjoy the nature of the place to the fullest.
Sher Shah Suri Masjid
Sher Shah Suri Masjid, Patna of Bihar is one of the finest specimen of Afghan style of architecture. Sher Shah Suri Masjid, Patna in Bihar was built by Mughal Emperor Sher Shah Suri to mark his rule in the year 1545. The mosque has been one of the star attractions in Bihar. Sher Shah Suri Masjid, Patna is counted amongst one of the most beautiful mosques in the state.
The exquisitely built mosque which is named after the name of the great Mughal king Sher Shah Suri, is sited in the south west corner of Purab Darwaza near Dhawalpura. Sher Shah Suri Masjid of Bihar is another landmark not only in Bihar but also in the history of Sher Shah's reign for its striking beauty. It is because of Sher Shah Suri Masjid, Patna's unique architectural style that separates it from all other historical structures in Bihar.
The Sher Shah Suri Masjid, Patna is as beautiful from inside as it is from outside. There is a tomb inside the complex of the mosque which is covered by an octagonal stone slab. But the star attraction of the Sher Shah Suri Masjid in Bihar is its central dome which lies in the middle of the roof and is surrounded by four small domes. But all this is designed in such a way that you can view only three of them from any angle.
If you want to revisit history, then do visit Sher Shah Suri Masjid, Patna. The mosque is easily accessible by all the local transports such as bus, taxi and private cars of Patna, so you would face no difficulty in reaching the historical monument.
Agam Kuan
The Agam Kuan is truly an enticing tourist destination that attracts hefty crowds that are composed of art connoisseurs as well as anxious holiday-makers. Roughly interpreted, the Agam Kuan refers to an "abysmal well" whose origin roots back to the illustrious stint of 'Ashoka the great' as the supreme emperor of Maurya empire. Being positioned on the eastern fringe of the capital city of Patna, in Bihar, the Agam Kuan is conveniently approachable from distant nooks of the country.
The vital features of the Agam Kuan at Bihar are mentioned below:-
The Agam Kuan of Bihar being circular in construction measures a staggering 20 feet and 2 inches in diameter, which is one of its intriguing features. The Agam Kuan in Bihar is also intricately ornamented in bricks that extends across half its entire length. There are several arch-shaped windows culminating to a total of eight to be precise that present a spectacular feel to the Agam Kuan. The depth of the Agam Kuan has been measured at an unbelievable 105 feet.
Legend has it that the emperor Ashoka had decapitated all his siblings mercilessly and cast their heads into the seemingly bottomless well, Agam Kuan. Another aspect connected with the Agam Kuan is the bewildering treasures that are so cautiously embedded deep into its heart.
Another recognizable tourist hub located at a close proximity from the Agam Kuan is Shitala Devi Temple. All in all, a trip to the Agam Kuan can be a mesmerizing experience that you will cherish for the rest of your life
Pathar Ki Masjid
Pathar Ki Masjid of Patna is also popularly known as Saif Khan's Mosque, Chimni Ghat Mosque and Sangi Masjid. This beautiful mosque is situated on the bank of river Ganga adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib. Pathar Ki Masjid was established in the year 1621, by Mugal Emperor Jahangir's son Parvez Shah , when he was the governor of Bihar.
As its name suggests the structure of Pathar Ki Masjid in Patna is built of stones. Its fascinating stone structure draws many people every year, from different corners of the country. Moreover the historical connection of the mosque has made it a site of interest not only to believers of Islamic faith but also to the tourists.
On festive days the area around the mosque is wonderfully decorated and appears lively. The colors of the festive mood of the local people add grandeur to the beautiful building of the mosque. Special prayer services are held here during such days. Thus it would be best to be here on the day of any Islamic festival if you are visiting the place for the first time.
Pathar Ki Masjid is also very popular among the local Islamic community. Apart from religious functions this old mosque also serves the purpose being a major landmark of the city. It is said that in the old days many social gatherings were also arranged in and around the Pathar Ki Masjid of Patna.
Vaishali Museum
Vaishali is a small village in Bihar with a tremendous tourism potential. According to the historians, Vaishali is one of the first democratic republics of the world. Recent excavations has brought Vaishali in the limelight and the historical and archaeological importance of the area has resurfaced. Located at an altitude of 52 meters, the best time to visit the lovely place is between the months of October and March.
Vaishali is a great place of enormous tourist interests. The main places to see in and around Vaishali are:
Ashokan Pillar - built by the great ruler Ashoka, the pillar is an extensively polished single piece of red sandstone, with a bell shaped capital and 18.30 meters in height. The top of the pillar comprise of a life size lion figure. The small tank beside the pillar is called the Ramkund.
Bawan Powar Temple - an ancient temple built during the Pala period. The temple contains excellent images of hindu gods.
Buddha Stupa - It is said that one eighth of Buddhas sacred ashes is enshrined in this Stupa inside a stone casket.
Shanti Stupa - another beautiful and serene Stupa, which is built by the Buddha Vihar Society.
Kundalpur - a holy place for the Jains, it is believed that Mahavira spent his first twenty two years of life in this place.
Other fascinating spots are:
Raja Vishal Ka Garh
Abhiskek Puskaran
Budha Stupa II
Vaishali Museum
Choumukhi Mahadeva
World Peace Pagoda
Barabar Caves
Barabar Caves, Gaya are located at Barabar Hills which is about 20-25 kilometers away from the north of Gaya in Bihar. Barabar Caves, Gaya were constructed around 200 BC when Emperor Ashoka ruled, for the Ajivika monks. Barabar Caves, Gaya in Bihar comprises of four caves which are cut out of a large granite rock and appear to be cut through laser.
Another amazing fact about Barabar Caves, Gaya of Bihar is that though they are made of rocks but they appear to be made out of wood. The interiors of the caves have been artistically designed by chisel and the walls bear the details of the life of Buddha.
Barabar Caves, Gaya are a bunch of four caves. Amongst them, the very important and the most beautiful cave is the Lomas Rishi Cave whose entrance architectural style is based on that of thatched huts. The interior of this cave is mesmerizing. It comprises of a large chamber which is rectangular in shape and is ornamented by a glazing polish that can be seen in a glass. The cave has played host to many abstainers in the ancient age and this is why it is considered sacred by the Hindus.
The Barabar Caves, Gaya in Bihar offers you a deep insight into the cave style of architecture as these caves are considered to be the origin of this style of architecture. Moreover, you also get to learn about the artistic talent of Indian sculptors who constructed these Barabar Caves in Bihar.
You can visit Barabar Caves at Bihar during any time of the year. Traveling to Barabar Caves, Gaya at Bihar is not difficult as you can take up any local transport such as bus or taxi from Gaya to reach the caves.
Pippala Caves
Pippala Cave form one of the wonders of the nature. You will find these caves if you go to the region near Rajgir in Bihar. The Pippala Cave in its real form is a rectangular shaped stone. This stone had been through ages worked upon by the forces of nature which have ultimately given rise to a cave.
The Pippala Cave in Bihar was a place for the hermits. It has been seen that this place was chosen by numbers of sages and hermits as a suitable abode for their meditation and penance. This was perhaps due to the absolute peace and serenity that reigns all around the Pippala Cave of Bihar.
The Pippala Cave is situated on the Vibhava hill. Below this hill there is a hot spring which is also a center of attraction to the tourists. The Pippala Cave of Bihar is also called by the local people in the name of Jarasandha ki Baithak after King Jarasandh, depicted in the great Indian epic of the Mahabharata.
The Pippala Cave in Bihar was used in the early days probably as a watch tower.
The months of October to March are the best time to visit the Pippala Cave of Bihar. If you want to go there you better go to Rajgir, which is the nearest town. You can opt for any one of the following:
Air: You will fly to Patna airport which is 101 kilometers from Rajgir. Indian Airlines fly from Patna to Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Ranchi as well as Lucknow.
Rail: Rajgir railway station is there but the nearest major railhead is Gaya, 78 kilometers away from the place.
Road: You will get well linked roadways to and from Patna, Nalanda, Gaya, Pawapuri, Bihar Sharif and so on.
Khuda Baksh Oriental Library
The Khuda Baksh Oriental Library is one of the oldest libraries in India. This place stands near the bank of river Ganga in Patna. The Khuda Baksh Oriental Library has a unique collection of about 21000 oriental manuscripts and 2.5 lakh printed books. This library was opened to public in the year 1891 by the Bihar Maulavi Khuda Baksh Khan. Initially the library contained 4000 manuscripts from Khuda Baksh's personal collection, among which 1400 were inherited from his father Maulvi Muhammad Baksh.
Khuda Baksh Oriental Library was declared an institute of national importance in the year 1969 by an act of the parliament. It is now managed by an administrative board headed by the governor of Bihar. The library is now fully funded by the Ministry of Culture as an acknowledgment of its historical and intellectual value. The regular managerial responsibilities regarding the functioning of the library are fulfilled by its director.
The Khuda Baksh Library of Patna has a huge collection of more than 18000 Arabic and Persian manuscripts and over 2000 rare paintings belonging to the Mugal and Rajput era. More over there are 850 audio and 550 video tapes on many prominent and important personalities have been made by the library. The Khuda Baksh Oriental Library also publishes a quarterly research journal. Apart from all these another major attraction of the library is the wide collection of letters from eminent personalities that are preserved there.
Some fellowships are also instituted by the Khuda Baksh Oriental Library. It has been recognized as a center for research and has the power of awarding the Ph.D and D.Lit degrees. You can find the rarest of manuscripts that are required for research on the orient at the Khuda Baksh Library in Patna.
Samosharan
Samosharan is a temple situated in Pawapuri in Bihar and is a holy place especially for the Jains. It lies at a distance of 38 kilometers from Rajgir and 101 kilometers from Patna. Pawapuri, where the Samosharan is located, is the place where Lord Mahavira, the last Tirthankara and the founder of Jainism left the earth. It is also the place in which the great Lord was cremated at about 500 BC.
The devotees after the death of the Lord took away so much of ashes from the place surrounding the funeral pyre that it created a water tank over there. A marble temple, the "Jalmandir", was later built in the center of the tank. It is at present a great center of pilgrimage for the Jains in and around Pawapuri. Close to this place lies the Jain temple called Samosharan.
People have a deep faith on the Samosharan since they believe that Lord Mahavira, the last and 24th Tirthankar of the Jain religion came here to deliver a sermon.
The Samosharan in Bihar is an extremely popular pilgrimage center for the Jains all over the country. People from abroad come to this place just because they think that a visit to Samosharan will bring them peace and help them to follow the path of religion and holiness.
You can reach Samosharan of Bihar in Pawapuri by:
Air: Patna is 101 kilometers away and is the nearest airport. Indian Airlines fly from Patna to Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Ranchi as well as Lucknow.
Rail: The nearest railway station is Rajgir but the major railhead is at Patna.
Road: You can reach here by bus or taxi from Patna, Rajgir, Gaya etc.
Shanti Stupa
The Shanti Stupa of Bihar represents such a delectable destination that is exquisitely embellished with the pristine essence of Lord Buddha. The Shanti Stupa is dowered with the reputation of being one of the most sought-after spots of the tourists who desire to cherish the placid ambiance that prevails here.
Being situated at the pinnacle of a 400 meter tall hammock, the sheer brilliance exhibited by Shanti Stupa will beyond a shadow of a doubt purify your soul and mind.
The Shanti Stupa is constructed from the lavish use of brushed up marbles to present an aesthetic feel to it. The Shanti Stupa is also endowed with four stunning marble replicas of the 'Awakened One', Lord Buddha, at its four nooks silhouetted against the backdrop of distant hills.
The Shanti Stupa also offers another attraction to the holiday-makers - Ropeways. These amazing chairlifts that take the visitors on a 15 minute sojourn over the enchanting hillocks presents an awesome view that the tourists treasure for the rest of their lives. Although the trip on ropeways is a thrilling experience, adequate safety measures should be taken to avoid awkward mishaps.
The Shanti Stupa in Bihar is also known as Griddhkoot. Being positioned in Rajgir in Bihar, Shanti Stupa is easily accessible from any part of the state of Bihar. The Shanti Stupa is an epitome that reflects the value and principles preached by Lord Buddha.
The month of November through to the month of April marks the most apt time to plan your trip to the Shanti Stupa at Bihar as the atmospheric conditions are truly marvelous. The closest airport terminal that can take you to Shanti Stupa is Patna situated at a length of approximately 107 kilometers. You can also visit Shanti Stupa via rail as the closest railhead is Bhaktiyarpur that lies at a distance of 54 kilometers.
Martyr's Memorial
Martyr's Memorial in Bihar is a statue in front of the Secretariat which commemorates the seven freedom fighters who lost their lives in the Quit India Movement in Bihar. These seven freedom fighters were shot dead when they were about to hoist the national flag of India.
The Martyr's Memorial at Bihar is a remembrance of the Quit India Movement or the Bharat Chhodo Andolan. This movement is also known as the August Movement since it was launched in the month of August in the year 1942. The Quit India Movement was actually a kind of civil disobedience in India.
The Martyr's Memorial of Bihar is actually a memorial to the seven great freedom fighters who laid down their lives at the Quit India Movement of 1942 to fulfill Mahatma Gandhi's objective for prompt independence of India. He actually tried to bring the British government to a status of negotiation.
Mahatma Gandhi called for a 'do or die'. He actually aimed at the passive and yet determined resistance to the British. He always believed in non violence. He used to say that if one is determined enough and expresses his will power in a peaceful manner, that acts better than fights and violence for securing one's aim. The Martyr's Memorial of Bihar is a salute to the Father and his nation.
Rambhar Stupa
Rambhar Stupa of Bihar is one of the very famous historical monument in India. The Rambhar Stupa at Bihar also bears a religious significance to Buddhist pilgrims for the large stupa was built to mark the death of Lord Buddha who was cremated here. As per the old Buddhist manuscripts, the Rambhar Stupa at Bihar was also known as Mukut-Bandhan Vihar.
Rambhar Stupa at Bihar is one of the largest stupas in India that stands at a height of 49 feet. Rambhar Stupa in Bihar is sited at a place that faces the road form Kasia to Deoria and is1.61 kilometers away from the Matha-kuar shrine. Nearby lies the pond named Rambhar Jhil whose water gets dried in every summer.
Many attempts of excavations have laid us to the Rambhar Stupa of Bihar. The person who recognized it as the stupa was Hirananda Shatri and he started his expedition in 1910. Rambhar Stupa of Bihar is said to be an unique stupa in size for the diameter of its upper circular drum is 34.14 meter while that of the base is 47.24 meter. During excavations at Rambhar Stupa in Bihar many clay seals with Buddhist writings were discovered. These foundings have now been kept in museums for public display.
Rambhar Stupa at Bihar is one of the finest specimens of Mauryan architecture, though the original structure was destroyed by nature but still some of its remaining portions reminisces of its original beauty. The place where Rambhar Stupa of Bihar is sited is the finest destinations for you to retreat in the serene environment. You can visit Rambhar Stupa at Bihar anytime during the year.
Last Updated on 27 June 2013
