Archaeological Museum, Bodhgaya-Bihar

Archaeological Museum, Bodhgaya-Bihar
About:
Bodhgaya, in the state of Bihar, reckoned as the most important Buddhist pilgrimage center, is the place where Lord Sakyamuni (Gautam Buddha) entered into meditation after being moved by the sufferings of mankind. The giant Bodhi Tree (Peepal) that we see today is believed to have grown from the original Bodhi Tree under which, sitting on the raised platform, Prince Siddharth meditated and imally attained Nirvana.  

There is no other place more venerated by Buddhist than Bodh Gaya, where Gautam Siddhartha attained enlightenment and came to be called the Buddha, the Awakened one. A visit to Bodh Gaya is to commune with that sparkling illumination, that perceptive light of wisdom which removes unhappiness. This is why each year on the full-moon night in the month of May one can still see pilgrims (from India, Nepal, Burma, Thailand, China, Japan, and other countries) thronging here to celebrate the sublime event of the Buddha’s Nirvana.

So, while visiting the Mahabodhi Temple don’t miss the Archaeological Museum, Bodhgaya as it houses ancient sculptures and antiquities of Buddhism. The museum was established in 1956 and has a collection of Buddhist sculpture from the 1st century B.C to 11th century A.D. You can see a collection of relics of the old temple and also the remains of the railings of the temple dating to the 2nd-1st century B.C .Inside the museum are two galleries with an open courtyard and two verandahs filled with antiquities. The courtyard inside the Archaeological Museum, Bodhgaya contains cross bars, railing pillars and coping stones which were once inside the Mahabodhi temple premises.

The first gallery exhibits sculptures including standing Yakshi figure having elaborate coiffure, crowned Buddha in Bhumisparsamudra, Maiterya, images of Buddha in different attitude, standing image of Manjusri, terracotta plaque depicting Buddha in Bhumisparshmudra, railing pillar depicting Surya, panel showing Sahasra Buddha, copper antimony rod, miniature pot.In second gallery are exhibited sculptures associated with Buddhist and Brahmanical faith. Among them mention may be made of panel showing Sapta matrika, Dikpalas, Dasavatara of Lord Vishnu.

While at Bodhgaya, one can easily observe that peace and spirituality pervades all over the place. The Bodhi Tree under which Buddha gained enlightenment or Nirvana is the cynosure of all eyes here. Even followers from countries like Burma, Sri Lanka, China, Bhutan, Tibet and Japan have established numerous monastic settlements here. These settlements have heightened the spiritual charm of the place all the more. The surroundings are calm and are a perfect haven for those who are in search of peace and tranquility.
Location info:
Address:Archaeological Museum ,Bodhgaya,Bihar,India
District:Bodhgaya
Nearest City:Bodhgaya
Best time to visit: October to March
Climate/Weather:
Summer- Max. 43, Min. 21. Winter – Max. 20, Min. 6. Rainfall: 120 cms.
History:
The museum was established in the year 1956. The museum consists of two galleries and an open courtyard as well as two verandahs displaying the antiquities. The museum exhibits bronze and stone sculptures of Buddhist and Brahmanical faith of pala period, scenes related to Buddhist pantheon, Surya, Zodiac signs on railings of Sunga age, etc.
Interesting things to do:
 
Interesting things to Visit:
Bhutan Temple:
Bhutan Temple is located close to Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya of Bihar. A popular pilgrim spot, the temple is built in Bhutan architectural style.  

Bodhi Sarovar:
Bodhi Sarovar is a pond situated to the west of the Bodhi Temple in the district Gaya. It is believed that Buddha took bath in this pond before going for meditation. It is an attractive place that is worth visiting.

Bodhi Tree:
Bodhi, also referred to as the tree of wisdom, is a gigantic pipal tree located at the western side of Mahabodhi Temple, in Bodhgaya, one of the four holy sites to Buddhists. Situated on the banks of the Niranjana River, Bodhi Tree is 13 km from Gaya. It is believed that this tree is a direct descendant of the one under which the Buddha Sakyamuni attained enlightenment, inside the Mahabodhi complex. Below the tree is a platform, on which the footprints of Buddha have been carved out in stone. Another highlight is Vajrasan, a slab of red stone, which is believed to be the spot Buddha sat for meditation.

Chinese Buddhist Temple:
Located at Bodhgaya in Bihar near Nyingma Monastery, the White Chinese Buddhist Temple was constructed in 1945 and belongs to a Taiwanese-based monastic order. It is white in color and built in Indo-Chinese architectural style. The statue of Buddha inside the temple was brought from China.

Dungeshwari Cave Temples:
Dungeshwari Cave Temples, also known as Mahakala caves, is situated 12 km north-east of Bodhgaya, Bihar. There are three caves containing Buddhist shrines, where the Buddha is believed to have meditated.

International Meditation Center:
International Meditation Center, situated at Bodhgaya, offers courses on meditation and Buddhist philosophy. It came into existence in the year 1970 and was the first registered Vipassana Meditation Center in India. The center also conducts retreats round the year where the meditators from all over the world come together to participate. Buddhists from different parts of the world come together for Kathina Civara Dana or the Robe-offering Ceremony, which is held after the Vassa Vasa or the Rainy Retreat. The ceremony is organized to offer robes to the venerable monks by the devotees. Since 1970 International Meditation Center has been offering Vipassana Meditation without a break.

Japanese Buddha Temple:
Japanese Buddha Temple is an ordinary pagoda type temple situated at Bodhgaya, Bihar. The temple has fine artistry which makes it beautiful. It has a 150 ft high gold statue of the meditating Buddha brought from Japan.

Mahabodhi Temple:
The UNESCO certified World Heritage Site, Mahabodhi Temple is sited at Bodhgaya in Gaya District of Bihar. Built entirely in brick, it is 170 ft high and dates back to the fifth or sixth century. The temple is historically an interesting spot because it is the place where Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple stands adjacent to descendant of the original Bodhi Tree, under which Buddha sat in meditation for enlightenment. A Buddhist shrine, the temple is an ornate structure with a pyramid (50 m high) on the top. A red sandstone slab named Vajrasan can be seen beneath the tree. It is believed to be the spot where Buddha sat for meditation. Also found here is a large gilded image of Buddha.

Root Institute for Wisdom Culture:
Root Institute for Wisdom Culture is a registered non-profit charitable trust situated at Bodhgaya, offering courses in Buddhist philosophy and meditation. This Buddhist center guarantees a suitable environment for the people of any nationality or religion to study and meditate on the Mahayana Buddhist teachings.

Thai Temple:
Thai temple is located in Gaya District. It is a beautiful temple with sloping roofs and gold lacquered tiles. The temple houses the image of a magnificent Buddha with curly hair. In order to accommodate devotees and Thai Buddhist monks, rooms are provided behind the temple.
Mobile range info:
 
How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:Gaya railway station is also connected by the rest of the country by trains. Many of the trains that run between Delhi and Kolkata go through Gaya. Direct trains also operate to destinations like Patna, Puri and Varanasi
Nearest Airport:Gaya airport international one and connects it to destinations like Yangon and Bangkok. Domestically, it is connected to destinations like Varanasi.
Road Transport:Gaya is connected by road to all the other important cities and towns of Bihar and neighbouring states– Rajgir, Patna, Giridih, Deogarh, Hazaribagh, Dhanbad, Tata and Kolkata.
Nearest Visiting places:
The Vishnupada Temple:
Standing on the subterranean banks of the river Falgu, the Vishnupada temple is 3 km away from the city. It was constructed by RajaRadhakanta Dev of Shovbazaar, Kolkata and renovated by Rani Ahalya Bai of Indore. The temple has a 30 m high tower that rests on 8 rows of decorated pillars covered with silver. Within, 16 inches long and 6 inches wide lotus feet of Lord Vishnu is imprinted on a solid rock, 48 inches diametre. The footprint, which is the primary object of worship in the temple, is surrounded by silver plated basin. Devotees offer water on the stone imprint on behalf of their forefathers. Also within the temple complex is the Akshaya vat, or the immortal banyan tree where last rites of an expired person is perfomed as per Hindu tradition. It is also believed that the Buddha practised meditation under this tree before going to Bodh Gaya and attaining enlightenment.  

Ramshila Hill:
Located 5 kms from the Vishnupad temple, the Ramshila Hill has a Sita Ram Lakshman Temple and Paleswara temple at its top. At Ramkund, pinda is offered.

Pretshila Hill:
3 kms ahead of the Ramshila Hill is the Pretshila Hill with a kund at the bottom. Here, pind-dan of those who died in accidents is performed.

Deo Sun Temple:
Deo is located north of the Vishnupada temple on the banks of the Sone river, around 20 km from Gaya.The Sun temple here is extremely famous. During the Chhat puja celebration (6 days after Dipawali), pilgrims stand waist deep in the water of the river and offer prayers as well as newly harvested grains, fruits and home made sweets to Sun god. A fair is also held here during this puja.

Pawapuri:
Pawapuri is also known as Apapuri, it is believed that all sins for a devout Jain end here. Lord Mahavira who was the last Tirthankar breathed his last here around 500 B.C and was cremated on the bank of a large lake, overflowing with beautiful lotuses. Pawapuri, the place where Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, attained his enlightenment is located 38 kms from Rajgir and 90 kms from Patna.Legend has it that after the cremation of Mahavira, in order to meet the demand for his ashes, a large amount of soil was removed from around the funeral pyre, creating the water-tank. The beautiful marble Jalmandir was later built in the middle of the tank. Jal Mandir, the white marble temple in the middle of this lake, blooming with beautiful lotus flowers affords a breathtakingly enchanting sight. A large number of Jain pilgrims throng here. Samosharan, another Jain temple, is also located here. There are five other temples in the vicinity.

Vaishali:
The world’s first democracy with a duly elected council– Vajji, had its seat of administration in Vaishali. Being associated with Buddha and Jain Tirthankars, Vaishali has emerged as a historical and scenic place. Lord Buddha came thrice here and also gave his last sermon at Vaishali. Amrapali, a courtesan, gifted a mango grove to Buddha and later she became a Buddhist nun. Vaishali was also the venue for the second Buddhist council, 100 years after the death of Buddha.Vaishali is also considered to be the birthplace of Jain Tirthankar, Mahavira, by the Swetambar sect of Jains. Many historical monuments and material were found in the excavations at Vaishali

Barabar caves:
The Barabar caves, generally found in the shape of a cottage or hut, open on one side with other three sides walled with stone. With their interiors smooth and soothing, these caves also served as retreats for the Jain and Buddhist monks. Among the Buddhist caves, the Lomas Rishi cave is the finest example of the world famous Indian Buddhist Chaitya arch style.

Barabar hills:
Barabar hills located at a distance of 20 kilometers from Gaya in Bihar, comprises numerous temples constructed from black granite stones. Built for the first time during Ashoka’s reign with contributions in the later period also, these caves look like wood from a distance.

Nagarjuna caves:
The Nagarjuna caves, large in size, depicts the Jataka tales. An excellent work of architecture, these caves includes bow shaped arches at the entrance, circular halls and mini caves, all polished from inside. The Sudama cave, a two chambered structure with polished interiors, is the perfect example of this type of cave. Towards the north of the Sudama cave lies Karan Choper or Supriya cave, which is a single chambered structure with a vaulted roof and small gate. Secondly, the caves of the five Pandavas form another part of the Barabar caves. THese caves, used by five brothers, the Pandavas in their exile in the Mahabharata period, are small in size.

Swarna Bhandar:
The Swarna Bhandar or the King Bimbisara’s treasury, is also known as the twin rock cut caves in Rajgir. a major tourist destination, two cave chambers were hollowed out of a single massive rock, one of which is believed to have been the guards’ room. The rear wall or the doorway which has two straight vertical lines and one horizontal line cut into the rock, is supposed to lead to king Bimbisara’s treasury. The inscriptions carved on the wall in Sankhalipi or shell script has not be deciphered yet and considered to be the clue to open the golden treasury.

Mahabodhi Temple:
Buddhism is today a world renowned religion. It is this temple that witnessed the divine enlightenment of Gautama Siddartha who renounced all worldly pleasures to find the answers to the questions that stirred his soul. He meditated under a pipal tree here and attained insight and wisdom that he preached to the world. This tree is also referred to as the “Bodhi tree”. A visit to this holy place will explain to you why the UNESCO declared it as a World heritage site in the year 2002.The Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya built around 6th-7th centuries, is the largest but is a later structure constructed on the site of the Bodhi Shrine of Buddha. This temple was constructed by the famous Emperor Asoka who embraced Buddhism after feeling guilty of leading a life of war and destruction.
The temple is 170 ft high consisting of nine storeys of pyramidal towers. The structure has a stupa shaped dome at the top. At the base of the main tower are four towers at each of the four corners. On the edifice are several niches with Buddha images depicting scenes from his life. As you enter the temple you can see the main shrine which is built where Buddha attained Enlightenment. The place is called “the Navel of the Earth” (puthavinabhim) where Buddha gained wisdom, knowledge and light and later experienced this joy of liberation for the next seven days sitting there.

TARA STHAN:
It is situated at a distance of about 16 Kms west of Saharsa in village Mahishi where an ancient temple of Bhagwati Tara is built. The idol of Bhagwati Tara is said to be very old and draws devotees from far and wide. On either side of the main deity, there are two smaller female deities which are worshipped by the people as Ekjata nad Nil Saraswati.

Chandika Sthan at BIRATPUR:
Biratpur village under Sonebarsa block of this district is famous for an ancient temple of goddess Chandi. This village is also associated with King Birat of the Mahabharat age. During exile the Pandavas had lived here for 12 years.The tantric Scholars and devotees attach much significance to this Chandi temple, which is said to form an equilateral triangle (TRIK) WITH Katyayani temple near Dhamhara ghat and Tara temple at Mahishi. During the Navratra people from distant places visit the village to offer prayers to the goddess of power.

Madan Bharti Asthan:
The place is situated in Mahishi Block. It is said that a religious discourse (Shastrath) was held between Shankaracharya and the local scholar Mandan Mishra. Bharti, wife of Madan Mishra, who was also a great scholar, was named as Judge for the discourse. It is also said that Shankaracharya, after his initial victory over Madan Mishra was challenged by Bharati, was outwitted by her and he (accepted defeat).

SUN Temple at Kandaha:
Like Deb (in Aurangabad district), the SUN Temple at Kandaha village is an important religious and historical place which has been duly recognized by the Archaeological Survey of India. The idol of sun god riding seven horsed chariot, has been carved on a single granite slab. At the door of the sanctum sanctorum, there are inscriptions which a deciphered by historians, confirm that this sun temple was built during the period of king Narsimha Deo of Karnata dynasty who ruled over Mithila in the 12th century. It is said that a brutal Mughal emperor named Kalapahad had damaged the temple which was however renovated by the famous saint poet Laxminath Gosai.

Laxminath Gosai Sthal at Bangoan:
The famous saint and poet of which is hardly 9 Km away from the district head quarter. The huge bunyan tree under which the remains of Gosaiji have been preserved is the centre of great reverence for the people of the district.

Dewan Ban Mandir:
One Shiv Ling is established in the temple situated in Sahpur-Manjhoul of Nauhatta block. It is said that the Ling was established by Maharaja Shalivahan some time in 100BC. The Hindus celebrate a festival called jitiya after the name of Jimutbahan who was the son of Maharaja Shalivahan. Description of this place is found in Shri Puran. The ancient shrine at Dewan Ban was washed away by the turbulent Koshi river. The local people have however build another temple in the adjacent area.

Nauhatta:
It is an old village, important since the time of Mughals and is presently the headquarters of the block of the same name. The village has a ‘Shiva temple’ about 80 feet in height. The temple which was damaged in the earthquake of 1934 was reconstructed by Raja Srinand Singh of Srinagar Estate. There is a grave of Madho Singh on an earthen mound about 50 feet high. Madho Singh had become a martyr in the battle of Ladri Ghat. Offerings are made on he rave both by Hindus and Muslims.

Bihar School of Yoga:
Bihar School of Yoga houses a Yoga Research Library. Comprising of a well-stocked and large collection of books and data, the library is an asset in itself. Here, you will find the school’s publication on Yoga, health techniques and research, apart from other books on yoga. The school, located at Ganga Darshan, is built over a large hill overlooking the Utter-Vahini Ganga. The location of the training is very apt, as it provides the perfect ambience for the establishment of such a training center.

Bhimbandh Wild Life Sanctuary:
Occupying an area of about 682 sq km, Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the south-west of Munger District of Bihar. The sanctuary falls to the south of the river Ganges and is at a distance of 56 km from Munger. Besides being famous for its wildlife, the place is also well accounted for its hot water springs. These hot springs are basically found at the valley portion and the foothills of Bhimbandh.
Nearest Petrol Pump:
Petrol Pump Dobhi Gaya:Gaya,Bihar,India
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Lotus Nikko Bodhgaya Hotel:Bodhgaya,Gaya,Bihar,India  
Hotel Pankaj:Tekari Road,Gaya,Bihar,India,MO:09955811250
Hotel Gharana:Hotel Gharana,South Church Road,Near Gandhi Maindan,Gaya,Bihar,India,ph:0631 2225512
Things to carry:
 
Tips & Suggestions:
 
Help Line/Phone Number:
Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:
Government Hospital:Jehanabad,Bihar,India
Holy Family Hospital:Koderma,Jharkhand,India
Society/Community Phone Number:
Link:

Archaeological Museum at Nalanda Museum

Archaeological Museum at Nalanda-Bihar
About:
The museum established in 1917 houses the antiquities mainly those excavated from Nalanda, the earliest university cum monastery complex and from Rajgir.  

Out of 13463 antiquities, 349 are on display in the four galleries of the museum. The antiquities from Nalanda are datable from 5th to 12th century AD but some of those from Rajgir are a little earlier in date. The sculptures kept in this museum are made of stone, bronzes, stucco and terracotta but majority of those have been carved on Basalt stone. Most of the images belong to Buddhist faith but those belonging to Jaina or Hindu religion are also quite good in number.

The key gallery displays sixteen sculptures among which Trailokya Vijay (a Vajrayana diety), Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, Maitreya, Buddha in Varad, Dharmachakra and Bhumisparsh posture, Samantbhadra, Parshvanath and Nagaraj are worth mentioning. A scale model of excavated remains of Nalanda University occupies the central place of the hall. There are fifty-seven images and sculptures displayed in the first gallery. Those of Khasarpana, Heruka, Marichi, Vagesvari, Vaishali-mircle, Buddha in varad mudra, miracle of Sravasti, Surya, Lakshmi, Ganesh, Shiva-Parvati, Kuber and Rishabhanath are significant ones.

The second gallery exhibits one hundred and forty-seven miscellaneous objects including terracotta, stuccos, iron implements and inscriptions. The terracotta seal with legend “Sri Nalanda Mahavihariya Arya bhikshu sanghasya”, the stone inscriptions of Yashovarmana, Purnavarman of Vipula Srimitra, fragmentary tablet of Nidanasutta, terracotta tiles showing swastika and kirtimukha, Dharmachakra, Votive Stupas in pipal leaf motiff and sample of charred rice are some noteworthy objects in this gallery. The central showcase exhibits a multi spouted pot related to serpent worship found from Rajgir.

In the third gallery altogether ninety-three specimens of bronzes have been displayed. Two images of Buddha in boon giving posture, Tara, Prajnaparmita, Loknath, Bodhisattava padmapani, Buddha in earth touching posture, depiction of a Buddhist temple, etc. are some important images related to Buddhist faith whereas images of Ganesh, Surya, Kamadeva, Indrani and Vishnu, etc. are examples of Brahmanical religion. Out of thirty-six stone sculptures and images kept in the fourth gallery.

Kinnaras worshipping kalpadrum (2 pannels), Vishnu, crowned Buddha in preaching pose with important events of his life, Buddha in Bhumisparsh-mudhra with eight events, Marichi, Vajrapni and Padmapani Bodhisattvas are worth mentioning. Two huge jars found from the monastic complex at Nalanda have displayed in a separate shed. A rich wealth of stone sculptures and images, terracotta, bronzes and other antiquarian objects are preserved in its reserve collection.
Location info:
Address:Archaeological Museum at Nalanda,Rajgir,Bihar,India
District:Rajgir
Nearest City:Rajgir
Best time to visit: October to March
Climate/Weather:
Summer temperatures range between 20 to 37.8°C, while winters see temperatures between 8 – 25 °C. Temperatures can dip below this range though, and visitors should carry woolens during December to February. The Best time to visit is between October and March.
History:
Established in 1971, the Nalanda archeological museum is situated in front of the ruins of the famous ancient learning centre of Nalanda. The archaeological museum of Nalanda(Bihar) possesses the treasures of Buddhism in the form of stuffs related to the Buddha. The museum has a rare and beautiful collection of Buddha’s bronze statues, copper plates, manuscripts, stone inscriptions, pottery, coins and images of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. With two terra cotta jars or pots (1st century CE) standing just behind the museum, the place also owns unique samples of burnt rice, which dates back to the 12th century CE. The museum remains closed on Fridays, while on other days the visitors are allowed to view the museum from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Interesting things to do:
 
Interesting things to Visit:
The Nalanda University Archaeological Complex:
The Archaeological complex where once the great Nalanda University stood covers an area of nearly 14 hectares. The complex is dotted with exquisitely maintained gardens and red brick buildings. Looking at these buildings which are divided by a central walkway running from north to south, one gets the idea that the university was build in Kushana style of architecture. Monasteries are towards the eastern side whereas the Temples of Chaiyas are to the west. Temple No.3 is the most dominating in the complex and one can get a splendid view of the surroundings from its top. It is surrounded by many smaller stupas which are engrossed with numerous statues of Lord Buddha, some of which are partially destroyed.  

The Nalanda Archaeological Museum:
Situated to the opposite side of university complex, The Nalanda Archaeological Museum is among the most important attractions in Nalanda. The main display of the museum is the collection of numerous Buddhist and Hindu statues. The undamaged statues of Lord Buddha earn extra attention of the tourists. There are two gigantic terracotta jars behind the museum that date back to 1st century. Other items on display includes coins, copper plates, pottery, sample of burnt rice and stone inscriptions. The museum is open on all days except Friday between 10 am and 5 pm.

Nava Nalanda Mahavira:
Set up in year 1951, Nava Nalanda Mahavira is an international institute that attracts students from all corners of the world. Keeping the tradition of world class education alive, the institute imparts specialization in research and study of Pali literature and Buddhism. It is situated to the south of the complex of Nalanda University.

Surajpur Baragaon:
Situated on the north of Nalanda, this is a lake with a temple dedicated to Sun God. The temple houses number of statues of Buddhist and Hindu gods. Most impressive of them all is a 5 feet high statue of Goddess Parvati. The temple sees most rush of pilgrims during Indian month of ‘Vaishakha’ (April-May) and ‘Kartika’ (October-November). However the best time to visit the temple is during Chhath Puja which is the festival for worshiping Sun God. The colorful celebrations have to be seen to be believed.
Mobile range info:
 
How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:Rajgir railway station at (12 km)
Nearest Airport:Patna airport at 89 km
Road Transport:Nalanda is connected by good road with Rajgir 12 km, Bodh Gaya 110 km, Gaya 95 km, Patna 90 km, Pawapuri 26 km, Bihar Sharif 13 km etc.
Nearest Visiting places:
Bodhi Tree:
This tree is worshipped as holy, divine and as a giver of enlightenment and wisdom. It is under this banyan tree (a pipal tree) that Lord Buddha meditated after renouncing all worldly pleasures and attained wisdom and divine enlightenment.The present Bodhi Tree is probably the fifth succession of the original tree under which the Buddha had attained enlightenment. Vajrasana (the posture in which he meditated), the seat of stability, is a stone platform on which the Buddha is supposed to have sat in meditation gazing east, under the Bodhi tree.  

Mahabodhi Temple:
Buddhism is today a world renowned religion. It is this temple that witnessed the divine enlightenment of Gautama Siddartha who renounced all worldly pleasures to find the answers to the questions that stirred his soul. He meditated under a pipal tree here and attained insight and wisdom that he preached to the world. This tree is also referred to as the “Bodhi tree”. A visit to this holy place will explain to you why the UNESCO declared it as a World heritage site in the year 2002.The Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya built around 6th-7th centuries, is the largest but is a later structure constructed on the site of the Bodhi Shrine of Buddha. This temple was constructed by the famous Emperor Asoka who embraced Buddhism after feeling guilty of leading a life of war and destruction.
The temple is 170 ft high consisting of nine storeys of pyramidal towers. The structure has a stupa shaped dome at the top. At the base of the main tower are four towers at each of the four corners. On the edifice are several niches with Buddha images depicting scenes from his life. As you enter the temple you can see the main shrine which is built where Buddha attained Enlightenment. The place is called “the Navel of the Earth” (puthavinabhim) where Buddha gained wisdom, knowledge and light and later experienced this joy of liberation for the next seven days sitting there.

TARA STHAN:
It is situated at a distance of about 16 Kms west of Saharsa in village Mahishi where an ancient temple of Bhagwati Tara is built. The idol of Bhagwati Tara is said to be very old and draws devotees from far and wide. On either side of the main deity, there are two smaller female deities which are worshipped by the people as Ekjata nad Nil Saraswati.

Chandika Sthan at BIRATPUR:
Biratpur village under Sonebarsa block of this district is famous for an ancient temple of goddess Chandi. This village is also associated with King Birat of the Mahabharat age. During exile the Pandavas had lived here for 12 years.The tantric Scholars and devotees attach much significance to this Chandi temple, which is said to form an equilateral triangle (TRIK) WITH Katyayani temple near Dhamhara ghat and Tara temple at Mahishi. During the Navratra people from distant places visit the village to offer prayers to the goddess of power.

Madan Bharti Asthan:
The place is situated in Mahishi Block. It is said that a religious discourse (Shastrath) was held between Shankaracharya and the local scholar Mandan Mishra. Bharti, wife of Madan Mishra, who was also a great scholar, was named as Judge for the discourse. It is also said that Shankaracharya, after his initial victory over Madan Mishra was challenged by Bharati, was outwitted by her and he (accepted defeat).

SUN Temple at Kandaha:
Like Deb (in Aurangabad district), the SUN Temple at Kandaha village is an important religious and historical place which has been duly recognized by the Archaeological Survey of India. The idol of sun god riding seven horsed chariot, has been carved on a single granite slab. At the door of the sanctum sanctorum, there are inscriptions which a deciphered by historians, confirm that this sun temple was built during the period of king Narsimha Deo of Karnata dynasty who ruled over Mithila in the 12th century. It is said that a brutal Mughal emperor named Kalapahad had damaged the temple which was however renovated by the famous saint poet Laxminath Gosai.

Laxminath Gosai Sthal at Bangoan:
The famous saint and poet of which is hardly 9 Km away from the district head quarter. The huge bunyan tree under which the remains of Gosaiji have been preserved is the centre of great reverence for the people of the district.

Dewan Ban Mandir:
One Shiv Ling is established in the temple situated in Sahpur-Manjhoul of Nauhatta block. It is said that the Ling was established by Maharaja Shalivahan some time in 100BC. The Hindus celebrate a festival called jitiya after the name of Jimutbahan who was the son of Maharaja Shalivahan. Description of this place is found in Shri Puran. The ancient shrine at Dewan Ban was washed away by the turbulent Koshi river. The local people have however build another temple in the adjacent area.

Nauhatta:
It is an old village, important since the time of Mughals and is presently the head quarters of the block of the same name. The village has a ‘Shiva temple’ about 80 feet in height. The temple which was damaged in the earthquake of 1934 was reconstructed by Raja Srinand Singh of Srinagar Estate. There is a grave of Madho Singh on an earthen mound about 50 feet high. Madho Singh had become a martyr in the battle of Ladri Ghat. Offerings are made on he rave both by Hindus and Muslims.

Bihar School of Yoga:
Bihar School of Yoga houses a Yoga Research Library. Comprising of a well-stocked and large collection of books and data, the library is an asset in itself. Here, you will find the school’s publication on Yoga, health techniques and research, apart from other books on yoga. The school, located at Ganga Darshan, is built over a large hill overlooking the Utter-Vahini Ganga. The location of the training is very apt, as it provides the perfect ambience for the establishment of such a training centre.

Bhimbandh Wild Life Sanctuary:
Occupying an area of about 682 sq km, Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the south-west of Munger District of Bihar. The sanctuary falls to the south of the river Ganges and is at a distance of 56 km from Munger. Besides being famous for its wildlife, the place is also well accounted for its hot water springs. These hot springs are basically found at the valley portion and the foothills of Bhimbandh.

Kharagpur Hills:
Kharagpur, in Munger District of Bihar, is a beautiful town at the foot of Kharagpur Hills. The main attraction of the town is the Ucheshwar Nath, a temple devoted to Lord Shiva. Kharagpur Lake, a large reservoir constructed by the Maharaja of Darbhanga, is just 3 km downtown. Malnipahar and Maruk hills are other spots worth visiting.
Nearest Petrol Pump:
Oil Petrol Pump:Near R’Block Railway Crossing,Nalanda,Bihar,India   Hp petrol pump:chouripar po noorsarai,new sarai,nalanda,Bihar,Indiaph:06112-42633
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Rajgir Residency:Nalanda,Bihar,India  
Royal Residency:Nalanda,Bihar,India
Chanakya Hotel Patna:Bir Chand Patel,Patna,Bihar,India,Phone:(91)612-2220590
Hotel Patliputra Ashok:Patna,Bihar,India,Phone: 612-2226270
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Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:Nalanda Medical College Hospital:Patna,Bihar,India
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Archaeological Museum at Vaishali

Archaeological Museum at Vaishali-Bihar
About:
Vaishali has a rich cultural past .It is the birthplace of Mahabir Jain. Archaeological Museum of Vaishali is located near Kharauna tank. The Government of India set up the museum in 1971. The museum contains various types of terracotta, seals and sealing, beads of semi-precious stones, punch marked and cast coins, pins and styli of bone, antimony rods of copper, balls of stone, terracotta and ceramic specimens, which were either excavated or collected from the nearby places. There are four galleries in the museum.  

The first gallery displays the terracotta objects like human figurines, Naigamesha, mother and child, Durga, plaque of Buddha, another plaque showing image of Bodhisattva and a female figure. In addition to this stone Chhatravali, moulded bricks and brick tiles are also on display.The important exhibits in the second gallery are terracotta figurines of ram, elephant, horse, bull, dog, monkey, birds, snake hood, seals and sealings, wheel, rattle, dabber, beads, toilet pan of terracotta, copper punch marked and cast coins, etc.

Potsherds of NBP and PGW, objects like antler, bone, bangle, arrowheads, iron and copper implements like knife, nail, bell, etc. are displayed in the third gallery.The fourth gallery contains exhibits like earthen ware such as bowl, dish, miniature vessel, vase, lamp, inkpot, lid bell, sprinkler and spout etc.

The first gallery contains molded bricks and brick tiles terracotta elements of human figure, Naigamesha, mother and child, Durga, images of Bodhisattva, a female figure etc. Terracotta of ram, elephant, horse, bull, dog, monkey, birds, snake hood, seals and sealing, wheel, rattle, dabber, beads are preserved in the second gallery. The third gallery houses objects like bone, antler, arrowheads, bangle, iron and copper implements like knife, nail, bell, etc. The fourth has a huge collection of pottery objects including bowl, dish, miniature vessel, vase, lamp, inkpot, lid bell, sprinkler and spout etc. The museum
Location info:
Address:Archaeological Museum ,Vaishali,Bihar,India
District:Vaishali
Nearest City:Vaishali
Best time to visit: October to March
Climate/Weather:
The climate of the state is tropical with hot summers and cold winters. Monsoon brings medium to high rainfall and floods several areas in north Bihar. Humidity levels remain high in north and central Bihar throughout the summer and monsoon season, making them quite uncomfortable. The best time to visit the state is from October to March.
History:
Archeological Survey of India has established a museum here called Vaishali Museum.it was set up in 1971 to preserve the antiquities found during exploration and excavation in and around the area. It has four galleries.
Interesting things to do:
 
Interesting things to Visit:
Ashokan Pillar:
Erected by the Mauryans to commemorate the site of Lord Buddha’s last sermon, Ashoka Pillar has become the mark of tourism in Bihar. Locally known as ‘Bhimsen’s Lathi’, Ashoka Pillar is a single piece of highly polished of red sandstone. On top of the 18.3 m high pillar, is a life size statue of a lion sitting on an inverted lotus facing north towards Kushinagar.  
Coronation Tank:
Coronation Tank, also called Abhishek Pushkarni held a very important position in century old Vaishali. The water of Coronation Tank during that period was considered to be holy and sacred. Thus it was used for anointing Vaishali’s elected representatives before they were sworn in to their respected positions.

Buddha Stupa I & II:
The Buddha Stupas here were created for the second Buddhist council that happened here in the 383 BC. Although the exteriors of Buddha Stupa I is not in a great condition, but tells us a lot about the architecture during that period. It is also famous as one eighth of the sacred ashes of Lord Buddha were found here. Another casket was found at the site of Buddha Stupa II which contained the sacred ashes of Lord Buddha.

Bawan Pokhar Tank:
Bawan Pokhar Tank is located at Vaishali in Vaishali District of Bihar. Built during the Pala period, this tank now stands as a historic monument and attracts tourists. Bawan Pokhar Temple lies on the northern bank of the tank.

Bawan Pokhar Temple:
Bawan Pokhar Temple is sited on the northern banks of Bawan Pokhar Tank in Vaishali of Bihar. It is believed to have been built during the Pallava period. The temple houses an interesting array of basalt black images of several deities, which date back to the Gupta and Pallava periods. Besides, a four headed Shivling made of black basalt was excavated from here. There is a Jain temple, which is famous for the image of Tirthankar, behind the temple. Points of interest nearby include a Lotus Tank, which was once popular among the Lichchhavis.

Fort Vishal:
Fort Vishal, named after the King Vishal, is an excavated site in Vaishali of Bihar. This one km long fort is believed to be the remains of an ancient parliament house, where Lichchhavis discussed and regulated the ancient republic. Vaishali Archaeological Museum, which houses excavated artifacts, and Abhishekh Pushkarni are among the points of interest nearby.
Mobile range info:
 
How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:Hajipur Railway Station at 35 Km
Nearest Airport: Patna airport is around 55 Km.
Road Transport:Good network of roads connect Vaishali to Patna (56 Km), Muzzaffarpur (36 km) and Hajipur (35 Km). There is good frequency of buses to and from Vaishali connecting it to different cities of Bihar.
Nearest Visiting places:
Harikatora Temple:
Harikatora Temple is located in Vaishali of Bihar. It is believed to have been built during the Gupta period. The highlight here is an image of Lord Kartikeya, which is in a sitting posture on a peacock. This temple is in a ruined state now.  

Miranji Ka Dargah:
The dargah houses the relics of Sheikh Mohammed Faizullah Kazim, a saint of the 15th century. On the occasion of Id-ul-Fitar, Muslims from the neighboring areas come here to pay their respects to the saint.

Ramkund Tank:
Ramkund Tank lies to the south of Ashoka Pillar at Vaishali in Bihar. According to the legend, it is at this place where monkeys offered a bowl of honey to the Buddha. Hence it is also called Monkey Tank. The tank made of brick and mortar measures upto 200 ft in length and about 100 ft in width.

Golghar:
Alarmed by the famine of 1770, captain John Garstin built this huge granary for the British army in 1786. The massive structure is 29 m high and the walls are 3.6 m wide at the base. The winding stairway around this monument offers a brilliant panoramic view of the city and the Ganga flowing by.Golghar or the round house, the huge granary was built in 1786 by Captain John Garstin, at the behest of the then administrator, Warren Hastings. Bihar experienced severe draught that resulted in acute famine in the year 1770. Alarmed by the situation faced by the people, this massive granary was constructed for the British army.The enormous structure is 29 m high and is 3.6 m wide at the base. Overlooking the river and the plains, it looks like the upper half of a gigantic, decorated Easter egg, with the spiral stairway winding around this monument, adding to its embellishment. It offers a magnificent breathtaking view of the city and the river Ganges, flowing nearby.

Martyr’s Memorial:
A memorial to seven freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives in the Quit India Movement of August 1942, the Martyr’s Memorial is a modern sculpture facing the Secretariat, where they were shot in their attempt to host the national flag.Life-size statues in front of the aged secretariat compound have been put up in memory of seven brave young men who faced bullets for the freedom of the country and sacrificed their lives in August 1942 in the historic struggle for India’s independence during “Quit India” movement.It is a modern sculpture with life dimension statues of the seven martyrs’, in front of the Secretariat where they were shot in their attempt to hoist the national tricolor.

Har Mandir Takht:
Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, was born in 1660 in Patna. The Har Mandir Takht, one of the four sacred shrines of the Sikhs, stands at thisholy site. The original temple was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and contains belongings of the Guru and Sikh holy texts. The Harmandir Takht, oone ofthe four holy shrines of the Sikhs, stands at this holy site, The original temple was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and contains belongings of the Guru and Sikh holy texts. As a sign of reverence, it is also called Patna Sahib by the Sikhs. The Harmandir Temple, also referred to as Patna Sahib, is the second most important pilgrimage of the Sikhs after the Golden Temple of Amritsar. The Takht Harmandir was built by Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th guru of the Sikhs. The gurudwara is made of white marble and is great piece of art. The Harmandir Temple Located in Patna City, the elder part the city, it also houses a museum on it’s third floor.

Patna MuseumPatna Museum:
The Patna Museum houses a First World War cannon, metal and stone sculptures of the Mauryan and Gupta periods, Buddhist sculptures and quaint terracotta figures. A 16 m long fossilised tree is one of its special features.Patna museum was established in the year 1917 by the British Government.The building of the museum was built in the style of Rajput and Mughal architecture.It is a multipurpose museum.The museum is the storehouse of archaeological objects, coins, art objects, paintings, instruments, textiles, paintings, thankas, bronze images and sculptures and terracotta. Patna museum is divided into 11 different sections.

Pathar ki Masjid:
Adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib, on the bank of the Ganga, is this beautiful mosque built by Parwez Shah, son of Jehangir, when he was the governor of Bihar. It is also called Saif Khan’s mosque, Chimmi Ghat mosque and Sangi Masjid.Stone Mosque or Pathar Ki Masjid was built in 1621 by Parvezshah, son Emperor Jahangir , when he was the Governor of Bihar. Adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib, this beautiful mosque was built by Parwez Shah when he was the governor of Bihar. It is situated on the bank of the Ganga, it is also called Saif Khan’s mosque, Chimmi Ghat mosque and Sangi Masjid.

Sher Shah Suri Masjid:
Sher Shah Suri built this mosque in 1545 to commemorate his reign. Built in the Afghan architectural style, it is one of the many beautiful mosques in Bihar, and one of the impressive landmarks of Patna.Khuda Baksh Oriental Library: Founded in 1900, a magnificent one man collection of rare Arabic and Persian manuscripts, Rajput and Mughal paintings, oddities like the Koran inscribed in a book only 25mm wide and an assortment of old and new books from the University of Cordoba, Spain. It is one of the national libraries in India. The library also contains the only books to survive the sacking of the Moorish University of Cordoba in Spain.Sher Shah Masjid was built by Sher Shah Suri, to commemorate his reign. Built in Afghan architectural style, it is one of the many beautiful mosques in Bihar and a landmark in Patna. An Afghan chieftain, who defeated Mughal Emperor Humanyun to rule Delhi. Locally known as Shershahi, the mosque was built in 1545, making it the oldest mosque in Patna.

Jalan Museum:
Built on the foundations of Sher Shah’s fort, Qila House contains an impressive private collection of antiques, including a dinner service that once belonged to George III, Marie Antoinette’s Sevres porcelain, Napoleon’s four-poster bed, Chinese jade and Mughal silver filigree,.It is a private collection, and prior permission is required for a visit.Jalan Museum, also known as Quila House, is constructed at the old site of Shershah’s Fort, in Patna of Bihar.The museum houses private collections of Chinese porcelains, paintings, jade and silver filigree work of the Mughal period.Prior permission is required to enter the museum.

Sadaqat Ashram:
The Ashram is the headquarters of Bihar Vidyapeeth, a national university. India’s first president, Dr. Rajendra Prasad lived here after his retirement and there is a small museum here showcasing his personal belongings.The beautiful bungalow of Sadaqat Ashram in Patna is situated at the bank of the river Ganga. This fantastic location of the Sadaqat Ashram attracts many tourists every year. Here people visit the museum to learn more about the last days of Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s life

Agam Kuan:
Agam Kuan (Unfathomable well) is one of the most important early historic archeological remains in Patna. It is situated just close to Gulzarbagh railway Station, which is proposed to be associated with the Mauryan Emperor Ashok. The Agam Kuan refers to an “abysmal well” and it is situated on the eastern part of the capital of Bihar, namely Patna. It was built during the Mauryan Empire and ‘Ashoka the great’. Agam Kuan in Patna, BiharThis magnificent monument in Bihar is 105 feet deep and 20 inch in diameter. Half of the well is made of ornamented bricks. One of the spectacular things in this well is its arch-shaped windows

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.

Deer at Sanjay Gandhi Biological ParkBiological Park:
Owing to its huge size, Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park is considered among one of the biggest zoos in India. The park houses more than three hundred species of trees including of orchids, ferns and roses. Each of these species has been kept in different houses and even their names have been given accordingly.The presence of the rare white tiger makes Sanjay Gandhi Biological park unique. Other than white tiger, the park has single male zebra, rhino of single horn, hippopotamus, and many cubs and tigers. The population of leopard is expected to rise in coming year for they have started breeding now. There are some 70 species of animals. Some rare species of animals such as clouded leopard, crocodile, Himalayan bear, lion tailed macaque, leopard cat, hog deer, and white peacock, etc. have been kept here. The total population of animals is around 800. The park is excellent exhibition of wildlife.

PlanetoriumModern Planetarium:
Indira Gandhi Science Complex, is one of the must visiting places in Patna. This is among few Planetarium’s (Taramandal) in India.A planetarium is a theatre built primarily for presenting educational and entertaining shows about astronomy and the night sky, or for training in celestial navigation. A dominant feature of most planetariums is the large dome-shaped projection screen onto which scenes of stars, planets and other celestial objects can be made to appear and move realistically to simulate the complex ‘motions of the heavens.

Kumhrar 80 pillar HallKumhrar:
Kumhrar, site of the ancient city of Patliputra, lies 5 kms from Patna railway station. Archaeological findings in this area establish Patna’s claim to over a thousand years of political glory – 600 BC to 600 AD. Very little of this grandeur remains though, except for the remains of a huge Mauryan hall supported by 80 sandstone pillars dating back to 300 BC.Kumhrar, located in the city of Patna, is the site that consists of the archaeological excavations of Patliputra and marks the ancient capital of Ajatshatru, Chandragupta and Ashok. The remains of the ancient city of Patilputra have been uncovered in Kumhrar, south of Patna. It is six kms from the railway station, on the Kankarbagh Road. Excavations here have releaved relics of four continuous periods from 600 BC to 600 AD. An important find is the 80-pillared huge hall of the Mauryan dynasty.
Nearest Petrol Pump:
HP Petrol Pump:Patna,Bihar,India   IOC Petrol Pump:Patna,Bihar,India
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Hotel Chanakya:Beer Chand Patel Marg,Patna,Bihar,India,Ph:0612 2223141  
Hotel Satkar International:Fraser Rd,Patna,Bihar,India,Ph:0612 2220551
Hotel Nand:R. K. Bhattacharya Rd,Patna,Bihar,India,ph:0612 2322732
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Police Station:100
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Bhagalpur Museum

Bhagalpur Museum-Bihar
About:
Bhagalpur 60 km from Munger by train or bus is Bhagalpur, associated with memories of the great Bengali novelists Sarat Chandra and Banaful. It would be better to travel to Bhagalpur by direct trains 3071 Howrah Jamalpur Exp or 3133 Sealdah-Mughalsarai Exp which leave at 22-30 hr and 20-55 hr and reach Bhagalpur next morning at 7-15 hr and 6-40 hr respectively.  

Bhagalpur Museum is situated at Station Club, Bhagalpur. It contains different types of Sculptures, terracotta, arms etc. Bhagalpur Museum organizes lectures and even film shows on different subjects. The museum is open from 10 am to 5:30 pm during summer and 10 am to 5 pm during winter .It remains closed on Mondays and government holidays.

Tour Bhagalpur town by a rickshaw on contract basis. First see the High Tower, Temple of Dudheswara Mahadeva, the Uni­versity and the Jain Temple at Nathnagar. Passenger trains run from Bhagalpur to Nathnagar, just 4 km away. On return to the town, you may visit Kuppa Ghat Ashram on the Ganges in a charming environment by rickshaw. On the return road there is the Agricultural college. Bhagalpur is reputed for its silk. Next morning travel to Sultan-ganj, 25 km away from Bhagalpur by train and visit the Siva Temple of Aajgaibinath on the summit of the hill on the Ganges. Boat is the only conveyance here.

Buses and mini buses also run to Sultanganj from Bhagal­pore and Munger. On the way to Howrah tourists may get down at Vikramsila Halt to see the ruins of the Vikramsila University of the past. They may go up to Bhagalpur by 16-01 hr Burdwan-Jamalpur Passenger train and from Bhagalpur they may back to Howrah by Jamalpur-Howrah Exp or Mughalsarai- Sealdah Exp which leave Bha­galpore at 20-10 hr and 1-20 hr respectively and reach Howrah and Sealdah next morning at 5-10 and 12-55 hr respectively.
Location info:
Address:Bhagalpur Museum,Bhagalpur ,Bihar,India
District:Bhagalpur
Nearest City:Bhagalpur
Best time to visit: October to March
Climate/Weather:
The climate of the state is tropical with hot summers and cold winters. Monsoon brings medium to high rainfall and floods several areas in north Bihar. Humidity levels remain high in north and central Bihar throughout the summer and monsoon season, making them quite uncomfortable. The best time to visit the state is from October to March.
History:
Bhagalpur Museum, established in 1970, is situated at Bhagalpur, and 230 km east of Patna, in Bihar. The museum exhibits ancient stone and bronze sculptures, terracotta, coins, manuscripts, rocks and minerals, fossils and arms and weapons
Interesting things to do:
 
Interesting things to Visit:
Khanqah-i-Shahbazia:
An Institutation Khanqah-i-Shahbazia was a highly reputed institution with a rich library and a rallying centre for scholars and men of learning. One of the five jurists invited by Aurangzeb for the compilation of his famous Fatwa-i-Alamgiri was Mir Muhammad Raadhi from Bhagalpur. In 1669 he received a daily allowance of three rupees and was later raised to the rank of an Amir. Sheikh Nizam, another noted theologian of his times was also welcomed to the Mughal court.Khangah-i-Shahbazia, Mullachak, adjoining the Bhagalpur Railway Station continues to be a flourishing seminary under the care of the 13th generation of the descendants of Maulana Shahbaz. The Sajjadah Nashin (direct descendent) is supposed to spend his life within the boundries of the Khangah. He leads the prayer, takes care of the various charitable projects and indulges in spiritual services. According to tradition they are exempted from appearance in any court of law.A visit to the Khangah springs a number of surprises like the oldest mosque in Bhagalpur wrapped in black dome. The typical Bengali roof over the medieval tombs houses the Kadam-i-Rasool (foot print of the prophet) and other memorabilia dating back to the medieval days. The library of the Khangah is rich in Arabic and Persian theological works, which includes hand written books dating back to the days of Maulana Shahbaz. One of the prized collection of the library includes the Holy Quran transcribed by Murshid Quli Khan, the Nawab of Murshidabad who was fond of donating his works to various Khangahs and even setting aside an allowance for their daily broadcast.  

Mandar Hills:
Mandar Hills , steeped in legend and laced with landscape of extraordinary splendour exposes the 800 feet high granite hill. Mandar is associated with amritmanthana which suggests that the hill was used by the gods to churn the ocean to procure amrit. The serpent, Basukinaga offered to serve as the rope and has left behind an impression of the coil on the granite hill. It is believed that panchjanya, the conch shell used in Mahabharat War was discovered here in the Sank kund. The puranas refer to various sacred places on the hill which is also believed to be the abode of Vishnu under the title of Madhusudana or the destroyer of a demon called Madhu who was killed by Vishnu and then covered by the Mandar hill. Kalidasa’s kumarasamahava refers to foot marks of Vishnu on the slopes of Mandar.
The hill is replete with relics of bygone ages. Besides inscriptions and statues there are numerous rock cut sculptures depicting various Brahmanical images. The hill is equally revered by the Jains who believe that their 12th Tirthankara attained nirvana here on the summit of the hill.

Kahalgaon:
Kahalgaon (32 km) is made up of three small islands associated with Jahnu Rishi’s legend associated with the swallowing of the Ganges when his meditation was interrupted by the rush of water. Later he released the Ganges through an incision on his thigh at the intercession of Raja Bhagiratha. Since then the river changed its course and started flowing from south to north. An incomplete and unusual rock cut temple worked out on a single granite boulder is of great interest as such a similar monolithic temple is not to be seen elsewhere in Bihar. Kahalgaon is the place to watch the dolphins at play around these islands.
North East of Kahalgaon is Bateshwar Asthan famous for 7th century rock sculptures referred to as Chaurasi Muni (84 sages). They depict various scenes from Ramayana.
Mahamud Shah, the last independent king of Bengal died here in 1539. Kahalgaon is one of the oldest religious and trade centre in Bhagalpur commanding a picturesque view. Mrs. Warren Hastings cruised to Bhagalpur from Calcutta and her boat almost capsized near the Kahalgaon hills.
Mobile range info:
 
How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:Bhagalpur lies on the broad gauge Loop line of the Eastern railway running from kiul to Burdwan. Important stations in this District on this line are Sultanganj, Bhagalpur, Sabour, Kahalgaon. A branch line runs from Bhagalpur to Mandar Hill (21 Kms.). North Bhagalpur is served by the Barauni-Katihar section of the North Eastern Frontier Railway. Narainpur, Bihpur, Naugauchia and Katihar Railway Stations lie on this line
Nearest Airport:Bhagalpur airport
Road Transport:National Highway 31 runs through the entire Naugachia Police District and subdivision. This highway connects the subdivisions directly to Patna via Begusarai and Khagaria and runs up to Guwahati via Purnea-Kishanganj. In addition, Mokama Farakka road has also declared as National Highway No. 81. It passes through Bhagalpur town and Kahalgoan.
Nearest Visiting places:
Golghar:
Alarmed by the famine of 1770, captain John Garstin built this huge granary for the British army in 1786. The massive structure is 29 m high and the walls are 3.6 m wide at the base. The winding stairway around this monument offers a brilliant panoramic view of the city and the Ganga flowing by.Golghar or the round house, the huge granary was built in 1786 by Captain John Garstin, at the behest of the then administrator, Warren Hastings. Bihar experienced severe draught that resulted in acute famine in the year 1770. Alarmed by the situation faced by the people, this massive granary was constructed for the British army.The enormous structure is 29 m high and is 3.6 m wide at the base. Overlooking the river and the plains, it looks like the upper half of a gigantic, decorated Easter egg, with the spiral stairway winding around this monument, adding to its embellishment. It offers a magnificent breathtaking view of the city and the river Ganges, flowing nearby.  

Martyr’s Memorial:
A memorial to seven freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives in the Quit India Movement of August 1942, the Martyr’s Memorial is a modern sculpture facing the Secretariat, where they were shot in their attempt to host the national flag.Life-size statues in front of the aged secretariat compound have been put up in memory of seven brave young men who faced bullets for the freedom of the country and sacrificed their lives in August 1942 in the historic struggle for India’s independence during “Quit India” movement.It is a modern sculpture with life dimension statues of the seven martyrs’, in front of the Secretariat where they were shot in their attempt to hoist the national tricolor.

Har Mandir Takht:
Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, was born in 1660 in Patna. The Har Mandir Takht, one of the four sacred shrines of the Sikhs, stands at this holy site. The original temple was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and contains belongings of the Guru and Sikh holy texts. The Harmandir Takht, one of the four holy shrines of the Sikhs, stands at this holy site, The original temple was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and contains belongings of the Guru and Sikh holy texts. As a sign of reverence, it is also called Patna Sahib by the Sikhs. The Harmandir Temple, also referred to as Patna Sahib, is the second most important pilgrimage of the Sikhs after the Golden Temple of Amritsar. The Takht Harmandir was built by Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th guru of the Sikhs. The gurudwara is made of white marble and is great piece of art. The Harmandir Temple Located in Patna City, the elder part the city, it also houses a museum on it’s third floor.

Patna Museum:
The Patna Museum houses a First World War cannon, metal and stone sculptures of the Mauryan and Gupta periods, Buddhist sculptures and quaint terracotta figures. A 16 m long fossilised tree is one of its special features.Patna museum was established in the year 1917 by the British Government.The building of the museum was built in the style of Rajput and Mughal architecture.It is a multipurpose museum.The museum is the storehouse of archaeological objects, coins, art objects, paintings, instruments, textiles, paintings, thankas, bronze images and sculptures and terracotta. Patna museum is divided into 11 different sections.

Pathar ki Masjid:
Adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib, on the bank of the Ganga, is this beautiful mosque built by Parwez Shah, son of Jehangir, when he was the governor of Bihar. It is also called Saif Khan’s mosque, Chimmi Ghat mosque and Sangi Masjid.Stone Mosque or Pathar Ki Masjid was built in 1621 by Parvezshah, son Emperor Jahangir , when he was the Governor of Bihar. Adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib, this beautiful mosque was built by Parwez Shah when he was the governor of Bihar. It is situated on the bank of the Ganga, it is also called Saif Khan’s mosque, Chimmi Ghat mosque and Sangi Masjid.

Sher Shah Suri Masjid:
Sher Shah Suri built this mosque in 1545 to commemorate his reign. Built in the Afghan architectural style, it is one of the many beautiful mosques in Bihar, and one of the impressive landmarks of Patna.Khuda Baksh Oriental Library: Founded in 1900, a magnificent one man collection of rare Arabic and Persian manuscripts, Rajput and Mughal paintings, oddities like the Koran inscribed in a book only 25mm wide and an assortment of old and new books from the University of Cordoba, Spain. It is one of the national libraries in India. The library also contains the only books to survive the sacking of the Moorish University of Cordoba in Spain.Sher Shah Masjid was built by Sher Shah Suri, to commemorate his reign. Built in Afghan architectural style, it is one of the many beautiful mosques in Bihar and a landmark in Patna. An Afghan chieftain, who defeated Mughal Emperor Humanyun to rule Delhi. Locally known as Shershahi, the mosque was built in 1545, making it the oldest mosque in Patna.

Jalan Museum:
Built on the foundations of Sher Shah’s fort, Qila House contains an impressive private collection of antiques, including a dinner service that once belonged to George III, Marie Antoinette’s Sevres porcelain, Napoleon’s four-poster bed, Chinese jade and Mughal silver filigree,.It is a private collection, and prior permission is required for a visit.Jalan Museum, also known as Quila House, is constructed at the old site of Shershah’s Fort, in Patna of Bihar.The museum houses private collections of Chinese porcelains, paintings, jade and silver filigree work of the Mughal period.Prior permission is required to enter the museum.

Sadaqat Ashram:
The Ashram is the headquarters of Bihar Vidyapeeth, a national university. India’s first president, Dr. Rajendra Prasad lived here after his retirement and there is a small museum here showcasing his personal belongings.The beautiful bungalow of Sadaqat Ashram in Patna is situated at the bank of the river Ganga. This fantastic location of the Sadaqat Ashram attracts many tourists every year. Here people visit the museum to learn more about the last days of Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s life

AgamkuanAgam Kuan:
Agam Kuan (Unfathomable well) is one of the most important early historic archeological remains in Patna. It is situated just close to Gulzarbagh railway Station, which is proposed to be associated with the Mauryan Emperor Ashok.The Agam Kuan refers to an “abysmal well” and it is situated on the eastern part of the capital of Bihar, namely Patna. It was built during the Mauryan Empire and ‘Ashoka the great’. Agam Kuan in Patna, BiharThis magnificent monument in Bihar is 105 feet deep and 20 inch in diameter. Half of the well is made of ornamented bricks. One of the spectacular things in this well is its arch-shaped windows

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.

Deer at Sanjay Gandhi Biological ParkBiological Park:
Owing to its huge size, Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park is considered among one of the biggest zoos in India. The park houses more than three hundred species of trees including of orchids, ferns and roses. Each of these species has been kept in different houses and even their names have been given accordingly.The presence of the rare white tiger makes Sanjay Gandhi Biological park unique. Other than white tiger, the park has single male zebra, rhino of single horn, hippopotamus, and many cubs and tigers. The population of leopard is expected to rise in coming year for they have started breeding now. There are some 70 species of animals. Some rare species of animals such as clouded leopard, crocodile, Himalayan bear, lion tailed macaque, leopard cat, hog deer, and white peacock, etc. have been kept here. The total population of animals is around 800. The park is excellent exhibition of wildlife.

Planetorium Modern Planetarium:
Indira Gandhi Science Complex, is one of the must visiting places in Patna. This is among few Planetarium’s (Taramandal) in India.A planetarium is a theatre built primarily for presenting educational and entertaining shows about astronomy and the night sky, or for training in celestial navigation. A dominant feature of most planetariums is the large dome-shaped projection screen onto which scenes of stars, planets and other celestial objects can be made to appear and move realistically to simulate the complex ‘motions of the heavens.

Kumhrar 80 pillar HallKumhrar:
Kumhrar, site of the ancient city of Patliputra, lies 5 kms from Patna railway station. Archaeological findings in this area establish Patna’s claim to over a thousand years of political glory – 600 BC to 600 AD. Very little of this grandeur remains though, except for the remains of a huge Mauryan hall supported by 80 sandstone pillars dating back to 300 BC.Kumhrar, located in the city of Patna, is the site that consists of the archaeological excavations of Patliputra and marks the ancient capital of Ajatshatru, Chandragupta and Ashok. The remains of the ancient city of Patilputra have been uncovered in Kumhrar, south of Patna. It is six kms from the railway station, on the Kankarbagh Road. Excavations here have releaved relics of four continuous periods from 600 BC to 600 AD. An important find is the 80-pillared huge hall of the Mauryan dynasty.
Nearest Petrol Pump:
Bajoria petrol pump: Bhagalpur,Bihar,India
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Vineet Hotel:Bhagalpur,Bihar,India  
Hotel Shiva International:Bhagalpur,Bihar,India
Hotel Satkar:Dr.rajendra Prasad Path,New Market,Katihar,Bihar,India
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Nearest Hospital:NTPC KahalgaonHospital:Bhagalpur,Bihar,India
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Gaya Museum-Bihar

Gaya Museum-Bihar
About:
Bodh Gaya Museum is located near the Mahabodhi temple. It houses antiquities excavated in and around Bodh Gaya. Museum has a large collection of Buddhist and Hindu relics, terracotta seals, scriptures and railings/pillars from the Sunga period (1 BC to 1 AD). Bodh Gaya Museum houses many artifacts and excavated articles which point towards the astonishing and modern lifestyle of the residents of the hidden societies. The museum has restored and displayed many old scriptures and educational aids which were consumed by the Universities to train their students who were from far-flung places such as China and Mongolia.  

The huge personal collection of Shri Baldeo Prasad are kept in the museum. Gaya Museum is the treasure house of over 3000 antiquities. The museum houses sculptures, bronzes, terracotta, photographs, manuscripts, arms of Pal, Mayurayan and Gupta period. The children section of Gaya Museum is very interesting. It includes numismatics, geology, natural history, decorative arts, paintings and sketches. Gaya Museum is open from 10 A.M. to 5 P.M and remains closed on Mondays, Holi, Durga, Puja, Chhath, Independence Day, Republic Day.

Here you will also find things dated back to 6th century BC, bits and pieces of Buddhism, the decomposed but excavated structure of Nalanda University, plenty of Buddha stupas, shrines, terracotta seals, scriptures and railings/pillars from the Sunga period (1 BC to 1 AD) and several other things connected to the past history of this place. One of the most well-known places in Bihar, Gaya is surrounded by three hills – Brahmyoni, Pretshila and Ramshila. Though more important for Hindus, Gaya, 12 km from Bodh Gaya in Bihar, is held in great reverence by the Buddhists of the country as well. The Buddha stayed here for sometime and delivered His famous fire sermon on what is today known as the Brahmyoni hill.
Location info:
Address:Gaya Museum,Gaya,Bihar,India
District:Gaya
Nearest City:Gaya
Best time to visit: October to March
Climate/Weather:
Summer- Max. 43, Min. 21. Winter – Max. 20, Min. 6. Rainfall: 120 cms.
History:
The museum was founded in the year 1956. The museum consists of two porticos and an open courtyard as well as two verandahs exhibiting the antiquities. The museum exhibits bronze and stone figurines of Buddhist and Brahmanical reliance of pala period, scenes related to Buddhist pantheon, Surya, Zodiac signs on railings of Sunga age.
Interesting things to do:
Festivals Celebrated:
Buddha Jayanti is celebrated in a very big way in Bodhgaya temples. The festival, celebrated on a full moon day in April/May, attracts devotees from all parts of the world. Another important festival is Nyingma Monlam Chenmo, held in January-February for about three weeks. In this festival, prayers are held for world peace. The Dalai Lama has also attended the festival on a few occasions.
Interesting things to Visit:
Brahmayoni (Brahmajuni) Hill: 
At a distance of 1 km southwest of the Vishnupada Temple, this hill offers some fantastic views of city from its top. Also, on the top are two narrow caves – Brahmayoni and Matreyoni – Passing through these caves, it is believed, no one will experience rebirth. A temple dedicated to the Asthabujadevi and other goddesses is at the top too. To reach the top, you need to take an arduous 40 to 60 minutes walk up 424 high stone steps.

Tankitamancha: 
A place of Buddhist interest, it is now a huge tank known as Sujikind. Here, at this place, it is believed, the Buddha met and conversed with evil spirit, Suchiloma. Reference regarding Suchiloma cam be found in Sutta Nipata, discourse No 5. The tank is surrounded by huge walls of stone block and at its northern end are quiet a few Buddhist stupas and statues.
Barabar Caves: 
20 kms from Gaya, Barabar Caves are amongst the earliest Buddhist rock cut caves. The caves were initially constructed during the reign of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century and additions were made later on. The Barabar Caves basically comprise three types of caves – Nagarjuna caves, caves of the five Pandavas and the Hut caves. The first one is the largest one and portray Jataka tales. The second one, as per its name, served as the residence of the five Pandava brothers during their exile. The Hut Caves, again, as per their name, are shaped like hut, three sides have stone walls while the rest is open.

Aurangabad Caves:
Located in the outskirts, the caves are carved out between the second century and the sixth century. These caves are famous for their architecture and intricate carvings. Among the twelve caves most fascinating are the Caves 3 and 7.

Ghrishneswar Temple:
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the jyotirlings. Built in the 18th century, it houses many shrines of gods such as Vishnu, Ganesh, Shiva, Parvati etc. Made of red sandstone, it also includes shrines of Mahabharata heroes.

Bibi – Ka – Maqbara:
TBuilt in 1678, this monument is called the ‘Taj of South India’. It is a mausoleum made by Prince Azam Shah, for his mother Begum Rabia Durani, wife of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Visitors can see fantastic work of Mughal architecture here.

Daulatabad:
Named by Mohammed Bin Tughlaq, it is located 13km away from Aurangabad and was earlier called Devgiri. Built in the 12th century, these fortresses are crowned atop a hill. Known for the brilliant architecture, it served as the headquarters of the Yadava rulers.

Bodh Gaya Archaeological Museum:
Buddhist pilgrims in Bodhgaya, India The archaeological museum is must visit for religious art lovers. The museum has a huge collection of stone sculptures and other artifacts. The museum reflects the age of Buddha through several art forms. It houses the Buddhist sculpture collection from 1st Century B.C to 11th Century A.D.
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How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:Gaya railway station is also connected by the rest of the country by trains. Many of the trains that run between Delhi and Kolkata go through Gaya. Direct trains also operate to destinations like Patna, Puri and Varanasi
Nearest Airport: Gaya airport international one and connects it to destinations like Yangon and Bangkok. Domestically, it is connected to destinations like Varanasi.
Road Transport:Gaya is connected by road to all the other important cities and towns of Bihar and neighbouring states– Rajgir, Patna, Giridih, Deogarh, Hazaribagh, Dhanbad, Tata and Kolkata.
Nearest Visiting places:
The Vishnupada Temple: 
Standing on the subterranean banks of the river Falgu, the Vishnupada temple is 3 km away from the city. It was constructed by RajaRadhakanta Dev of Shovbazaar, Kolkata and renovated by Rani Ahalya Bai of Indore. The temple has a 30 m high tower that rests on 8 rows of decorated pillars covered with silver. Within, 16 inches long and 6 inches wide lotus feet of Lord Vishnu is imprinted on a solid rock, 48 inches diametre. The footprint, which is the primary object of worship in the temple, is surrounded by silver plated basin. Devotees offer water on the stone imprint on behalf of their forefathers. Also within the temple complex is the Akshaya vat, or the immortal banyan tree where last rites of an expired person is perfomed as per Hindu tradition. It is also believed that the Buddha practised meditation under this tree before going to Bodh Gaya and attaining enlightenment.  

Ramshila Hill: 
Located 5 kms from the Vishnupad temple, the Ramshila Hill has a Sita Ram Lakshman Temple and Paleswara temple at its top. At Ramkund, pinda is offered.

Pretshila Hill: 
3 kms ahead of the Ramshila Hill is the Pretshila Hill with a kund at the bottom. Here, pind-dan of those who died in accidents is performed.

Deo Sun Temple: 
Deo is located north of the Vishnupada temple on the banks of the Sone river, around 20 km from Gaya.The Sun temple here is extremely famous. During the Chhat puja celebration (6 days after Dipawali), pilgrims stand waist deep in the water of the river and offer prayers as well as newly harvested grains, fruits and home made sweets to Sun god. A fair is also held here during this puja.

Pawapuri:
Pawapuri is also known as Apapuri, it is believed that all sins for a devout Jain end here. Lord Mahavira who was the last Tirthankar breathed his last here around 500 B.C and was cremated on the bank of a large lake, overflowing with beautiful lotuses. Pawapuri, the place where Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, attained his enlightenment is located 38 kms from Rajgir and 90 kms from Patna.Legend has it that after the cremation of Mahavira, in order to meet the demand for his ashes, a large amount of soil was removed from around the funeral pyre, creating the water-tank. The beautiful marble Jalmandir was later built in the middle of the tank. Jal Mandir, the white marble temple in the middle of this lake, blooming with beautiful lotus flowers affords a breathtakingly enchanting sight. A large number of Jain pilgrims throng here. Samosharan, another Jain temple, is also located here. There are five other temples in the vicinity.

Vaishali:
The world’s first democracy with a duly elected council– Vajji, had its seat of administration in Vaishali. Being associated with Buddha and Jain Tirthankars, Vaishali has emerged as a historical and scenic place. Lord Buddha came thrice here and also gave his last sermon at Vaishali. Amrapali, a courtesan, gifted a mango grove to Buddha and later she became a Buddhist nun. Vaishali was also the venue for the second Buddhist council, 100 years after the death of Buddha.Vaishali is also considered to be the birthplace of Jain Tirthankar, Mahavira, by the Swetambar sect of Jains. Many historical monuments and material were found in the excavations at Vaishali

Barabar caves:
The Barabar caves, generally found in the shape of a cottage or hut, open on one side with other three sides walled with stone. With their interiors smooth and soothing, these caves also served as retreats for the Jain and Buddhist monks. Among the Buddhist caves, the Lomas Rishi cave is the finest example of the world famous Indian Buddhist Chaitya arch style.

Barabar hills:
Barabar hills located at a distance of 20 kilometers from Gaya in Bihar, comprises numerous temples constructed from black granite stones. Built for the first time during Ashoka’s reign with contributions in the later period also, these caves look like wood from a distance.

Nagarjuna caves:
The Nagarjuna caves, large in size, depicts the Jataka tales. An excellent work of architecture, these caves includes bow shaped arches at the entrance, circular halls and mini caves, all polished from inside. The Sudama cave, a two chambered structure with polished interiors, is the perfect example of this type of cave. Towards the north of the Sudama cave lies Karan Choper or Supriya cave, which is a single chambered structure with a vaulted roof and small gate. Secondly, the caves of the five Pandavas form another part of the Barabar caves. THese caves, used by five brothers, the Pandavas in their exile in the Mahabharata period, are small in size.

Swarna Bhandar:
The Swarna Bhandar or the King Bimbisara’s treasury, is also known as the twin rock cut caves in Rajgir. a major tourist destination, two cave chambers were hollowed out of a single massive rock, one of which is believed to have been the guards’ room. The rear wall or the doorway which has two straight vertical lines and one horizontal line cut into the rock, is supposed to lead to king Bimbisara’s treasury. The inscriptions carved on the wall in Sankhalipi or shell script has not be deciphered yet and considered to be the clue to open the golden treasury.

Bodhi Tree:
This tree is worshipped as holy, divine and as a giver of enlightenment and wisdom. It is under this banyan tree (a pipal tree) that Lord Buddha meditated after renouncing all worldly pleasures and attained wisdom and divine enlightenment.The present Bodhi Tree is probably the fifth succession of the original tree under which the Buddha had attained enlightenment. Vajrasana (the posture in which he meditated), the seat of stability, is a stone platform on which the Buddha is supposed to have sat in meditation gazing east, under the Bodhi tree.

Mahabodhi Temple:
Buddhism is today a world-renowned religion. It is this temple that witnessed the divine enlightenment of Gautama Siddartha who renounced all worldly pleasures to find the answers to the questions that stirred his soul. He meditated under a pipal tree here and attained insight and wisdom that he preached to the world. This tree is also referred to as the “Bodhi tree”. A visit to this holy place will explain to you why the UNESCO declared it as a World heritage site in the year 2002. The Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya built around 6th-7th centuries, is the largest but is a later structure constructed on the site of the Bodhi Shrine of Buddha. This temple was constructed by the famous Emperor Asoka who embraced Buddhism after feeling guilty of leading a life of war and destruction.
The temple is 170 ft high consisting of nine storeys of pyramidal towers. The structure has a stupa-shaped dome at the top. At the base of the main tower are four towers at each of the four corners. On the edifice are several niches with Buddha images depicting scenes from his life. As you enter the temple you can see the main shrine which is built where Buddha attained Enlightenment. The place is called “the Navel of the Earth” (puthavinabhim) where Buddha gained wisdom, knowledge, and light and later experienced this joy of liberation for the next seven days sitting there.

TARA STHAN:
It is situated at a distance of about 16 Kms west of Saharsa in village Mahishi where an ancient temple of Bhagwati Tara is built. The idol of Bhagwati Tara is said to be very old and draws devotees from far and wide. On either side of the main deity, there are two smaller female deities which are worshipped by the people as Ekjata nad Nil Saraswati.

Chandika Sthan at BIRATPUR:
Biratpur village under Sonebarsa block of this district is famous for an ancient temple of goddess Chandi. This village is also associated with King Birat of the Mahabharat age. During exile the Pandavas had lived here for 12 years. The tantric Scholars and devotees attach much significance to this Chandi temple, which is said to form an equilateral triangle (TRIK) WITH Katyayani temple near Dhamhara ghat and Tara temple at Mahishi. During the Navratra people from distant places visit the village to offer prayers to the goddess of power.

Madan Bharti Asthan:
The place is situated in Mahishi Block. It is said that a religious discourse (Shastrath) was held between Shankaracharya and the local scholar Mandan Mishra. Bharti, wife of Madan Mishra, who was also a great scholar, was named as Judge for the discourse. It is also said that Shankaracharya, after his initial victory over Madan Mishra was challenged by Bharati, was outwitted by her and he (accepted defeat).

SUN Temple at Kandaha:
Like Deb (in Aurangabad district), the SUN Temple at Kandaha village is an important religious and historical place which has been duly recognized by the Archaeological Survey of India. The idol of sun god riding seven horsed chariot, has been carved on a single granite slab. At the door of the sanctum sanctorum, there are inscriptions which a deciphered by historians, confirm that this sun temple was built during the period of king Narsimha Deo of Karnata dynasty who ruled over Mithila in the 12th century. It is said that a brutal Mughal emperor named Kalapahad had damaged the temple which was however renovated by the famous saint poet Laxminath Gosai.

Laxminath Gosai Sthal at Bangoan:
The famous saint and poet of which is hardly 9 Km away from the district headquarter. The huge bunyan tree under which the remains of Gosaiji have been preserved is the centre of great reverence for the people of the district.

Dewan Ban Mandir:
One Shiv Ling is established in the temple situated in Sahpur-Manjhoul of Nauhatta block. It is said that the Ling was established by Maharaja Shalivahan some time in 100BC. The Hindus celebrate a festival called jitiya after the name of Jimutbahan who was the son of Maharaja Shalivahan. Description of this place is found in Shri Puran. The ancient shrine at Dewan Ban was washed away by the turbulent Koshi river. The local people have however build another temple in the adjacent area.

Nauhatta:
It is an old village, important since the time of Mughals and is presently the headquarters of the block of the same name. The village has a ‘Shiva temple’ about 80 feet in height. The temple which was damaged in the earthquake of 1934 was reconstructed by Raja Srinand Singh of Srinagar Estate. There is a grave of Madho Singh on an earthen mound about 50 feet high. Madho Singh had become a martyr in the battle of Ladri Ghat. Offerings are made on he rave both by Hindus and Muslims.

Bihar School of Yoga:
Bihar School of Yoga houses a Yoga Research Library. Comprising of a well-stocked and large collection of books and data, the library is an asset in itself. Here, you will find the school’s publication on Yoga, health techniques and research, apart from other books on yoga. The school, located at Ganga Darshan, is built over a large hill overlooking the Utter-Vahini Ganga. The location of the training is very apt, as it provides the perfect ambience for the establishment of such a training centre.

Bhimbandh Wild Life Sanctuary:
Occupying an area of about 682 sq km, Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the south-west of Munger District of Bihar. The sanctuary falls to the south of the river Ganges and is at a distance of 56 km from Munger. Besides being famous for its wildlife, the place is also well accounted for its hot water springs. These hot springs are basically found at the valley portion and the foothills of Bhimbandh.
Nearest Petrol Pump:
Petrol Pump Dobhi Gaya:Gaya,Bihar,India
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Lotus Nikko Bodhgaya Hotel:Bodhgaya,Gaya,Bihar,India
Hotel Pankaj:Tekari Road,Gaya,Bihar,India,MO:09955811250
Hotel Gharana:Hotel Gharana,South Church Road,Near Gandhi Maindan,Gaya,Bihar,India,ph:0631 2225512
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Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:
Government Hospital:Jehanabad,Bihar,India
Holy Family Hospital:Koderma,Jharkhand,India
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Maharaja Lakshmishwar Singh Museum

Maharaja Lakshmishwar Singh Museum-Bihar
About:
Maharaja Lakshmeshwar Singh of Darbhanga September 25, 1858 to December 17, 1898.was the King of Darbhanga in State of Bihar, India. He was best known as one of the most munificent of living philanthropists of his time. His philanthropic works, administrative abilities and management of his estate Raj Darbhanga were models followed by others in India. His contribution to upliftment and modernizing Indian Society is, sadly, unrecognized by Indian Government.  

Maharaja Lakshmeshwar Singh spent approximately £300,000 on relief work during the Bihar famine of 1873–74. He constructed hundreds of miles of roads in various parts of the Raj, planting them with tens of thousands of trees for the comfort of travelers, as part of generating employment for people effected by famine. He constructed iron bridges over all the navigable rivers of the Raj, and completed an elaborate system of irrigation works, for prevention of famine.

The lakes, ponds, dams, and other water bodies created during his rule still exist today and form important part in irrigation in northern Bihar. In addition to the £300,000 expended in charitable relief during the Bihar famine of 1873-74, in every time of scarcity the late Maharaja’s arrangements for meeting it were on a splendid scale, and were in many cases the models for the Government measures. He built, and entirely supported, a first-class Dispensary at Darbhanga, which cost £3400; a similar one at Kharakpur, which cost £3500 ; and largely contributed to many others.
Location info:
Address:Maharaja Lakshmishwar Singh Museum,Darbhanga,Bihar,India
District:Darbhanga
Nearest City:Darbhanga
Best time to visit:
Climate/Weather:
 
History:
 
Interesting things to do:
Fulwari:
The orchard of the old Darbhanga dynasty, located in Chatariya village about a kilometer away from Kadirabad at the banks of Adhwara river. ajay mishra
Interesting things to Visit:
 
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How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:
Nearest Airport:
Road Transport:
Nearest Visiting places:
Chandradhari Museum:
Chandradhari Museum, established in 1957, is situated at Darbhanga, in Bihar. Originally situated on the eastern bank of Mansarowar Lake, the museum was shifted to the present double-storied building in 1974. The museum has 11 halls each exhibiting artifacts of different category. Among the exhibit include attractive artifacts made of glass, rare and splendid artistic works of weavers and rare miniature painting of different styles. Most noteworthy among the paintings is the painting of Krishna-Leela with gopies, based on Geet-govinda of Jaidev. Painting describing the great epic Ramayana has been arranged in this hall. The museum has a fabulous collection of statues made of Brass in Indian, Nepalese and Tibetan style. Statues of Goddess Durga, Surya and Lord Shiva are quite attractive. Statues related to Buddhism are also on display. The natural history section showcases costly gems and stones. The museum also has library facilities.  

Darbhanga Fort:
Darbhanga Fort is another attraction for outsiders coming to the city. Not much was built inside the fort except a few temples and a house for family deity. Successors of Darbhanga royal clan still stay inside the fort in an almost ruined house surrounded by mango trees.

Harahi Pond:
This is a one of the popular lake among 3 lakes in Darbhanga City near by Railway Station. Darbhanga City could become a hot destination for tourists, if all three lakes can renovate and joined each other, which will facilitate boating and other water sports.

Holy Rosary Church:
Holy Rosary Church is located in the center of Darbhanga, in Bihar. Established in 1891, it was an old bungalow type church were training was given to Christine fellow. During the 1897 earthquake, the church was demolished and was rebuilt later. The main attraction is an enticing symbol of Jesus Christ in the front of the church.

Mazar of Makhdoom Baba:
Mazar of Makhdoom Baba is located at the heart of Darbhanga in Bihar. This shrine is famed for Hindu-Muslim unity. Every day people from both cults gather here to offer their prayers.

Shyama Kali Temple:
Built in 1933, Shyama Temple is housed in the Lalit Narayan Mithila University, in the heart of Darbhanga. This temple, devoted to Goddess Kali, is one of the most prominent temples built upon the private graveyard of the Darbhanga royal family. The temple is famed for its beauty.
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Nardah Museum-Bihar

Nardah Museum-Bihar
About:
District Magistrate of newly created district of Nawada Shri N. P. Singh, I.A.S. the Nardah Museum was established. Almost all the exhibits were collected and made over to the Deptt. of Art, Culture & Youth, Govt. of Bihar by Shri Singh himself. Nardah Museum is a multi-purpose museum and the mention-worthy artifacts and art-objects include Pal stone sculptures, coins and manuscripts. Besides, contemporary painting, metal and stone art-pieces have also been preserved in the museum. The entire collection is housed in a magnificent building of its own.
Location info:
Address:Nardah Museum,Nardah,Patna,Bihar,India
District:Patna
Nearest City:Nawada
Best time to visit: October to March
Climate/Weather:
The climate of the state is tropical with hot summers and cold winters. Monsoon brings medium to high rainfall and floods several areas in north Bihar. Humidity levels remain high in north and central Bihar throughout the summer and monsoon season, making them quite uncomfortable. The best time to visit the state is from October to March.
History:
Nardah Museum was established in the year 1974.It is located in the Nawada district of Bihar. It was the brainchild of District Magistrate of Nawada Shri N. P. Singh. He donated all his personal collection to the museum. The museum houses stone sculptures, coins paintings metal objects stone art-pieces and manuscripts.
Interesting things to do:
 
Interesting things to Visit:
Kakolat:
It is a magnificent waterfall in Gobindpur police station, about 33-kms from Nawada. Just below the fall there is a deep natural reservoir. The fall is about 150 to 160-ft high from the ground level.A legend about this place is that in Treta Yuga a king named Nigas was cursed by a Rishi and had to take the shape of a python and lived here. The Pandavas visited the place during their exile and the accursed king got salvation from the damnation. The king after getting rid of the curse proclaimed that one who would bathe in the waterfall will not take the yoni of snake and that is why a large number of people from far and near bathe in the river. Kakolat is a most popular picnic spot too, visited by thousands of people almost every day.  

Gonava jee:
Gonava village is situated about one kilometer north of Nawada on Patna-Ranchi road. It is a place of pilgrimage for the Jains of both sects. The Digambar Jain temple is just by the side of main road while the Shwetamber Jain temple is behind it. The Digambar Jain temple built in 1925 is quite beautiful. It has a large marble idol of Lord Mahavira. The Shwetambar Jain temple was built some 800 years ago and has an impressive approach road. The temple has got a marble idol of Lord Mahavira flanked by a granite idol of Sudharmaji and idol of Panch Parmesthi made of Asthadhatu. The temple is famous and known as place of Nirvana of Lord Mahavira’s first disciple, Gautam Gandharva.

Sitamarhi:
This is a small village about 32-kms from Nawada and is a place of great religious and mythological importance. There is an elliptical cave carved inside a huge hemispherical block of granite rock. The legend has it that it was in this cave that Sita had to take refuge after having been exiled by Rama. Built by Vishwakarma, the divine builder at the behest of saint poet Valmiki, as the legend goes, it was the heaven for Sita and provided her protection in the dense forest, which was infested with wild beasts. One and a half kilometers northeast of Sitamarhi there is a village called Barat, where the saint poet Valmiki is said to have lived when Sita was exiled. It was on the wide high level ground near this cave that Sita’s sons Lav and Kush are said to have fought against Ram’s army.

Had-Hadwa Waterfall:
At a distance of about 6-kms from Kawakole of Nawada district, there is a popular picnic spot having picturesque situation. A seasonal waterfall of this name in Macchaudra village is the main attraction.
Mobile range info:
 
How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:Nawada Railway Station
Nearest Airport:Jaiprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna (112kms)
Road Transport:Connected by good roads with all Indian cities.uto-rickshaws,Cycle-Rickshaws,Tangas.
Nearest Visiting places:
Maner:
Located just 29 kilometers away from Patna, Maner is an Islamic pilgrim destination. Maner houses a shrine of 13th century Sufi Saint Maneri. His cenotaph at Bari Dargah is a popular tourist destination among his followers. There is one tomb of his disciple Shah Daulat which also attracts a number of tourists.  

Bodh Gaya:
Located 125 kilometers away, Bodh Gaya is a major tourist attraction near Patna. Bodh Gaya was the place where Bautam Buddha attained enlightenment under the peepal tree. Known as the Bodhi Tree, it is one of the most sacred sites for Buddhists across the world. The Bodhi tree is enshrined in a temple called Bodhi Temple. A huge statue of Lord Buddha inside the temple is another major tourist attraction at Bodh Gaya. Bodh Gaya is a part of Buddhist Circuit that connects all the places associated with Buddha and Buddhism.

Nalanda:
Located 90 kilometers away from Patna, Nalanda houses the ruins of the famous Nalanda University. Nalanda was once the seat of higher learning but was devastated by a Turkish invader in the twelfth century. Wide spread campus of the university shows the grandeur and versatility of Nalanda University. According to Chinese traveler, Hiuen Tsang, Naland University housed more than ten thousand students and one thousand faculty members.

Rajgir:
Rajgir holds great importance for Busshists and Jains. Situated amongst lush green hills and at a distance of 102 km from Patna, Rajgir was the ancient capital of the Magadha Empire before Lord Buddha. Major tourist attractions at Rajgir are Gridhakuta, Pipphali House, Venuvana, Tapodarama and Saptaparni cave.

Vaishali:
Vaishali is said to be the first republic in human history. Vaishali had the concept of republican government much before the Greeks. Vaishali is located at a distance of 55 kilometers from the capital city of Patna. Lord Buddha stayed here for quite some time during his search of truth. Vaishali is also associated with Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara.
Nearest Petrol Pump:
Petrol Pump:Nawada,Bihar,Idia
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Hotel Krishna Palace:Nawada,Bihar,India

Hotel Galaxy:Nawada,Bihar,India  
Mukhiyaji Ka Hotel:Nawada,Bihar,India
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Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:Sadar Hospital:Nawada,Bihar,India
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Patna Museum

About:
Patna museum has a large collection of sculptures of the Gandhara and the Mathura style art. These sculptures belong to the Kushana period. The Gandhar style sculptures, also known as ‘Greeco-Buddhist Art’ are made of blue-schist of Swat valley and the collection includes figures of Buddha. Other than Lord Buddha, several statutes of Bodhisattvas have also been kept in the Patna Museum. Patna Museum preserves holy relic casket of Lord Buddha containing his ashes.  

Patna Museum houses many historic items found during excavations in different parts of Bihar. Some belong to the pre-historic phase and some are from early centuries of first millennium. Post-excavation, archeologists found many things including some historic objects, stone sculptures, bronzes, terracotta, paintings – miniature and thanka paintings and coins, which all are important to know the history and development of Bihar.

The museum at Patna has some pre-historic objects of great interest including of Palaeoliths, microliths and neoliths. These objects were found from different parts of India. Certain objects like Paleolithic tools found at Bariar (M.P.) and Lalitpur (U.P.), Attirampakkam (Tamilnadu) have also been kept in display in the museum.

Thus, the ancient Kusumpura metamorphosed through Pushpapura, Pataliputra, Azeemabad and now into Patna , a continuous history ranging from 6th century BC to present times – a record claimed by few cities in the world. It was Ajatshatru the Magadha king who first built a small fort in Pataligram on the bank of the Ganga in 6th century BC, which later blossomed into the ancient glory still to be seen in the neighboring archaeological sites at Kumrahar. Bhiknapahari, Agamkuan, Bulandi Bagh and Kankar Bagh. Pataliputra dominated the political fortunes of the whole of north India between 6th century BC and 5th century AD, a fact established by archaeological excavations. After a temporary eclipse, in 16th century, Sher Shah Suri returned the city to its former glory and established the present Patna . After the decline of the Mughals, the British too found Patna a convenient regional capital and built a modern extension to this ancient city and called it Bankipore. It was in Gandhi Maidan in this area, that Mahatma Gandhi held his prayer meetings.
Location info:
Address:Patna Museum,Patna,Bihar,India
District:Patna
Nearest City:Patna
Best time to visit: October to March
Climate/Weather:
The climate of the state is tropical with hot summers and cold winters. Monsoon brings medium to high rainfall and floods several areas in north Bihar. Humidity levels remain high in north and central Bihar throughout the summer and monsoon season, making them quite uncomfortable. The best time to visit the state is from October to March.
History:
Patna Museum was established in the year 1917. The aim behind the establishment of the museum was to impart a scientific vision to understand the evolution of history, culture and art tradition of the land. Patna archaeological museum boasts a huge collection of artifacts found during the excavations of ancient sites in Bihar.
Interesting things to do:
Sonepur Mela: 
One of the most astonishing cattle fairs to be held in Asia in terms of its size and scale. The sleepy little town of Sonepur (22 km form Patna) is thrown into frenzy on Kartik Purnima , a fortnight after Diwali , as people from all over the world congragate to participate in this huge festival and is enjoyed by all.During the period Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation provides facilities in traditional huts.

Chhath Festival: 
The festivities accompanying the celebreation of freshly harvested paddy and its offerings made to the Sun God have to be seen to be believed. Joy and colour mark the Chhath festivities as thanks are offered to the lord of Crops and the creator of the seasons. Devotional songs to the Sun God and fasting all day long make the Chhath Festival a day of thanks giving. Devotees walk barefoot in the penance to the venue of the celebrations. Lighted earthen lamps are floated down the river at evening time.
Interesting things to Visit:
Arts and Crafts: 
Madhubani paintings are indigenous to the state. The renditions by rural women, these village paintings have a large market in the urban areas as well as on the export front. Created strictly by the women of Mithila. they are etched in primary colours of natural origin on paper and cloth. Their subjects are mythology and religious events.

Tomb of Yahya Maneri:
The Tomb of Yahya Maneri lies in a mosque to the east of a large tank, with masonry walls and ghats, and pillared porticos, which is connected with the old bed of the Son by a tunnel, 400 feet long. The tomb is situated in an enclosure half filled with graves and ancient tress. On the north and west of which are three domed mosque and some quaint little cloisters build by lbrahim Khan.

Ganga river:
The Ganga has an exalted position in the Hindu ethos. It is repeatedly invoked in the Vedas, the Puranas, and the two Indian epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Ganga is a goddess, Ganga devi, one of two daughters of Meru (the Himalayas), the other being Uma, consort of Shiva. In her youth, Indra had asked for Ganga to be given to heaven to soothe the Gods with its cool waters. The story of its descent to earth appears in slightly different forms in Ramayana, Mahabharata and in the Puranas. These myths are variously dated between 2000 to 400 BC

Ganga River Basin:
The Ganga River basin is affluent with perennial rivers and streams having special significance in the region it flows. Some of the important rivers in the Ganga River Basin are as follows The approximately 260 km long distributary of the Ganges River in West Bengal, India. The river divides from the Ganges as a canal in Murshidabad District at the Farakka Barrage. The town of Hugli-Chinsura was formerly known as Hooghly. This town is located on the river, in the Hooghly (district). The origins of the name of Hooghly River are not known, whether the city or the river derived the name first.
Mobile range info:
 
How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:Patna is connected by rail to Bombay, Calcutta, Guwahati, Ranchi, Varanasi.
Nearest Airport:The flights of Indian Airlines, Sahara India, Air Deccan and Jet Airways connect Patna with Bombay, Calcutta, Delhi, Lucknow, Ranchi and many other major cities.
Road Transport:All – weather motorable roads connect Patna with the rest of Bihar. There are also regular inter – state bus services.By road Patna to Nalanda-95 km, Rajgir-110 km, Pawapuri-90 km, Gaya-120 km, Bodhgaya-135 km, Raxaul-210 km, Ranchi-335 km, Muzzafarpur-78 km, Sasaram- 152 km, Vaishali-56 km, Calcutta-653 km, Delhi-997 km. Bus : Regular direct bus services connect Patna to Calcutta, Rajgir, Nalanda, Pawapuri, Vaishali, Gaya-Bodhgaya, Ranchi, Raxaul, Muzzafarpur, Sasaram.
Nearest Visiting places:
Golghar: 
Alarmed by the famine of 1770, captain John Garstin built this huge granary for the British army in 1786. The massive structure is 29 m high and the walls are 3.6 m wide at the base. The winding stairway around this monument offers a brilliant panoramic view of the city and the Ganga flowing by.Golghar or the roundhouse, the huge granary was built in 1786 by Captain John Garstin, at the behest of the then administrator, Warren Hastings. Bihar experienced severe draught that resulted in acute famine in the year 1770. Alarmed by the situation faced by the people, this massive granary was constructed for the British army.The enormous structure is 29 m high and is 3.6 m wide at the base. Overlooking the river and the plains, it looks like the upper half of a gigantic, decorated Easter egg, with the spiral stairway winding around this monument, adding to its embellishment. It offers a magnificent breathtaking view of the city and the river Ganges, flowing nearby.

Martyr’s Memorial: 
A memorial to seven freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives in the Quit India Movement of August 1942, the Martyr’s Memorial is a modern sculpture facing the Secretariat, where they were shot in their attempt to host the national flag. Life-size statues in front of the aged secretariat compound have been put up in memory of seven brave young men who faced bullets for the freedom of the country and sacrificed their lives in August 1942 in the historic struggle for India’s independence during “Quit India” movement. It is a modern sculpture with life dimension statues of the seven martyrs’, in front of the Secretariat where they were shot in their attempt to hoist the national tricolor.

Har Mandir Takht: 
Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, was born in 1660 in Patna. The Har Mandir Takht, one of the four sacred shrines of the Sikhs, stands at this holy site. The original temple was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and contains belongings of the Guru and Sikh holy texts. The Harmandir Takht, one of the four holy shrines of the Sikhs, stands at this holy site, The original temple was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and contains belongings of the Guru and Sikh holy texts. As a sign of reverence, it is also called Patna Sahib by the Sikhs. The Harmandir Temple, also referred to as Patna Sahib, is the second most important pilgrimage of the Sikhs after the Golden Temple of Amritsar. The Takht Harmandir was built by Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th guru of the Sikhs. The gurudwara is made of white marble and is a great piece of art. The Harmandir Temple Located in Patna City, the elder part the city, it also houses a museum on it’s third floor.

Patna Museum: 
The Patna Museum houses a First World War cannon, metal and stone sculptures of the Mauryan and Gupta periods, Buddhist sculptures and quaint terracotta figures. A 16 m long fossilised tree is one of its special features.Patna museum was established in the year 1917 by the British Government.The building of the museum was built in the style of Rajput and Mughal architecture.It is a multipurpose museum.The museum is the storehouse of archaeological objects, coins, art objects, paintings, instruments, textiles, paintings, thankas, bronze images and sculptures and terracotta. Patna museum is divided into 11 different sections.

Pathar ki Masjid: 
Adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib, on the bank of the Ganga, is this beautiful mosque built by Parwez Shah, son of Jehangir, when he was the governor of Bihar. It is also called Saif Khan’s mosque, Chimmi Ghat mosque and Sangi Masjid.Stone Mosque or Pathar Ki Masjid was built in 1621 by Parvezshah, son Emperor Jahangir when he was the Governor of Bihar. Adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib, this beautiful mosque was built by Parwez Shah when he was the governor of Bihar. It is situated on the bank of the Ganga, it is also called Saif Khan’s mosque, Chimmi Ghat mosque and Sangi Masjid.

Sher Shah Suri Masjid: 
Sher Shah Suri built this mosque in 1545 to commemorate his reign. Built in the Afghan architectural style, it is one of the many beautiful mosques in Bihar, and one of the impressive landmarks of Patna.Khuda Baksh Oriental Library: Founded in 1900, a magnificent one-man collection of rare Arabic and Persian manuscripts, Rajput and Mughal paintings, oddities like the Koran inscribed in a book only 25mm wide and an assortment of old and new books from the University of Cordoba, Spain. It is one of the national libraries in India. The library also contains the only books to survive the sacking of the Moorish University of Cordoba in Spain.Sher Shah Masjid was built by Sher Shah Suri, to commemorate his reign. Built-in Afghan architectural style, it is one of the many beautiful mosques in Bihar and a landmark in Patna. An Afghan chieftain, who defeated Mughal Emperor Humanyun to rule Delhi. Locally known as Shershahi, the mosque was built in 1545, making it the oldest mosque in Patna.

Jalan Museum: 
Built on the foundations of Sher Shah’s fort, Qila House contains an impressive private collection of antiques, including a dinner service that once belonged to George III, Marie Antoinette’s Sevres porcelain, Napoleon’s four-poster bed, Chinese jade and Mughal silver filigree,.It is a private collection, and prior permission is required for a visit.Jalan Museum, also known as Quila House, is constructed at the old site of Shershah’s Fort, in Patna of Bihar.The museum houses private collections of Chinese porcelains, paintings, jade and silver filigree work of the Mughal period.Prior permission is required to enter the museum.

Sadaqat Ashram: 
The Ashram is the headquarters of Bihar Vidyapeeth, a national university. India’s first president, Dr. Rajendra Prasad lived here after his retirement and there is a small museum here showcasing his personal belongings. The beautiful bungalow of Sadaqat Ashram in Patna is situated at the bank of the river Ganga. This fantastic location of the Sadaqat Ashram attracts many tourists every year. Here people visit the museum to learn more about the last days of Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s life

AgamkuanAgam Kuan: 
Agam Kuan (Unfathomable well) is one of the most important early historic archeological remains in Patna. It is situated just close to Gulzarbagh railway Station, which is proposed to be associated with the Mauryan Emperor Ashok. The Agam Kuan refers to an “abysmal well” and it is situated on the eastern part of the capital of Bihar, namely Patna. It was built during the Mauryan Empire and ‘Ashoka the great’. Agam Kuan in Patna, Bihar This magnificent monument in Bihar is 105 feet deep and 20 inch in diameter. Half of the well is made of ornamented bricks. One of the spectacular things in this well is its arch-shaped windows

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 withstood 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.
Deer at Sanjay Gandhi Biological ParkBiological Park: 
Owing to its huge size, Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park is considered among one of the biggest zoos in India. The park houses more than three hundred species of trees including of orchids, ferns and roses. Each of these species has been kept in different houses and even their names have been given accordingly. The presence of the rare white tiger makes Sanjay Gandhi Biological park unique. Other than white tiger, the park has single male zebra, rhino of single horn, hippopotamus, and many cubs and tigers. The population of leopard is expected to rise in coming year for they have started breeding now. There are some 70 species of animals. Some rare species of animals such as clouded leopard, crocodile, Himalayan bear, lion-tailed macaque, leopard cat, hog deer, and white peacock, etc. have been kept here. The total population of animals is around 800. The park is excellent exhibition of wildlife.

PlanetoriumModern Planetarium: 
Indira Gandhi Science Complex is one of the must visiting places in Patna. This is among few Planetarium’s (Taramandal) in India.A planetarium is a theatre built primarily for presenting educational and entertaining shows about astronomy and the night sky, or for training in celestial navigation. A dominant feature of most planetariums is the large dome-shaped projection screen onto which scenes of stars, planets and other celestial objects can be made to appear and move realistically to simulate the complex ‘motions of the heavens.

Kumhrar 80 pillar HallKumhrar: 
Kumhrar, site of the ancient city of Patliputra, lies 5 kms from Patna railway station. Archaeological findings in this area establish Patna’s claim to over a thousand years of political glory – 600 BC to 600 AD. Very little of this grandeur remains though, except for the remains of a huge Mauryan hall supported by 80 sandstone pillars dating back to 300 BC.Kumhrar, located in the city of Patna, is the site that consists of the archaeological excavations of Patliputra and marks the ancient capital of Ajatshatru, Chandragupta and Ashok. The remains of the ancient city of Patilputra have been uncovered in Kumhrar, south of Patna. It is six kms from the railway station, on the Kankarbagh Road. Excavations here have releaved relics of four continuous periods from 600 BC to 600 AD. An important find is the 80-pillared huge hall of the Mauryan dynasty.
Nearest Petrol Pump:
IOC Petrol Pump:Patna,Bihar,India Petrol Pump:Patna,Bihar,India
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Hotel Chanakya:Beer Chand Patel Marg,Patna,Bihar,India,Ph:0612 2223141

Hotel Satkar International:Fraser Rd,Patna,Bihar,India,Ph:0612 2220551
Hotel Nand:R. K. Bhattacharya Rd,Patna,Bihar,India,ph:0612 2322732
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Help Line/Phone Number:
Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:
Kurji Holy Family Hospital:Sadaquat Ashram,Kurji,Patna,Bihar,India,ph:0612 2262516
Dr Akhori Shashi Bhushan Sahaya:146,Shree Krishna Nagar,Boring Road,Patna,Bihar,India,ph:0612 2533469
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Sarnath Museum-Bihar

Sarnath Museum-Bihar
About:
Peaceful Sarnath where Buddha delivered his first sermon more than 2500 years ago has a site museum whose prize exhibit is the enormous lion capital. Now the emblem of independent India, this capital once surmounted an Ashokan pillar erected to mark the spot where the Buddha preached. Carved in pale yellowish-grey sandstone with black flecks, the sculpture has the characteristic highly polished surface. At the entrance hall are two figures of Buddha, one of which portrays the historic events at Sarnath.  

There are many other Buddha and bodhisattva figures on view. Among these the most outstanding is the Gupta period Buddha with hand raised in Abhaya or protection. Archaeological museum Sarnath is the oldest site museum of Archaeological Survey of India. In order to keep the antiquities found from the site, a decision was taken in 1904 by the Government to construct a site museum adjacent to the excavated site at Sarnath. It was due to initiative of Sir John Marshall the then Director General of Archaeology in India, that this museum was created.

Sarnath became a prominent center of Buddhism in the Gupta period. It has been eloquently told by the profusion of exquisitely carved sculptural art, which got a new dimension in the hands of the Gupta artists, and it became a main center of Gupta art. The Sarnath School of Art is known for its elegance, simplicity of forms and sublimity. The images of Buddha, displayed in Shakyasimha gallery, represent this school of Art. Standing figure of profusely ornamented Tara is one of the best specimens of Late Gupta sculptural art of Sarnath. The single most famous exhibit of this museum is the lion capital which has four back-to-back lions.

The Lion capital of Ashoka has been adopted as the National symbol of India. Below this are representations of a lion, an elephant, horse and the bull.The Sarnath Museum has a small but amazing collection of Buddhist artifacts. Among the things to see is a beautiful sculpture of the Buddha from the 5th century. The Buddha sits cross-legged, with eyes downcast in deep meditation, and a halo around his head.

The stone sculptures from the site of Sarnath are divided in several museums, the major chunk being in the local museum. The Director General of Archaeological Survey of India has loaned some pieces discovered from Sarnath to this museum. They represent deities of the Buddhist and Brahmanical pantheons.Of other Buddhist remains there is an impressive and amazingly beautiful, life-size standing Bodhisattva and a delicate image of the Bodhisattva with a lotus and yet another bronze sculpture showing the Bodhisattva with multiple arms
Location info:
Address:Sarnath Museum,Bodhgay,Bihar,India
District:Bodhgay
Nearest City:Bodhgay
Best time to visit: October to March
Climate/Weather:
Summer- Max. 43, Min. 21. Winter – Max. 20, Min. 6. Rainfall: 120 cms.
History:
The museum atSarnath also houses an excellent collection of figures and sculptures from the Mauryan, the Kushana and the Gupta periods. Prominent of them is the earliest Buddha image found at Sarnath and many images of Hindu Gods dating from the 9th to 12th centuries. Sarnath has yielded a rich collection of sculptures, artifacts and edifices comprising numerous Buddha and Bodhisattva images and other ancient remains.  
To house all the findings and excavations at Sarnath, the Archaeological Survey of India established a site Museum at Sarnath. Finest specimens of Buddhist art and other important remains have been housed at the museum. While the single most famous display of this museum is the lion capital, the Sarnath museum has a small but awe-inspiring collection of Buddhist artifacts. Among the things to see is a beautiful sculpture of the Buddha from the fifth century. The Buddha sits cross-legged, with eyes downcast in deep meditation, and a halo around his head. Also worth exploring are several beautiful figures of the several beautiful bodhisattvas.
Interesting things to do:
 
Interesting things to Visit:
Chaukhandi Stupa:
Chaukhandi Stupa is an impressive earthen mass covered by brickwork. The square base structure surrounded by an octagonal tower. It is believed that Emperor Ashoka erected the original structure.  

Dhamek Stupa:
Dhamek Stupa is the most remarkable stupa at Sarnath. Cylindrical in shape, the stupa is 28 m in diameter at the base and 43.6 m in height. The stupa is built partially of stone and partially of brick. The stone facing the lower part is embroidered with delicate floral carvings in Gupta style.

Mulgandha Kuti Vihar:
Mulgandha Kuti Vihar is a modern temple erected by the Mahabodhi Society. Japan`s best painter, Kosetsu Nosu, painted the beautiful murals in the temple. The temple has a expensive collection of the Buddhist literature. The ancient Mulagandha Kuti temple is among the brick remains of Sarnath.
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How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:Sarnath itself has a railway station that is connected to Varanasi and Gorakhpur by passenger trains
Nearest Airport:Varanasi Airport at Babatpur is near about 30 kilometers from Sarnath.
Road Transport:Sarnath is well connected to the rest of Uttar Pradesh by roadways. The nearest mega terminus is at Varanasi that is 10 kilometers from the downtown Sarnath. Varanasi in turn is well connected by bus to cities like Lucknow, Bareilly, Kanpur, Allahabad, Agra and Mathura. Both Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation as well as Private players operates these buses
Nearest Visiting places:
Gaya:
The ancient town of Gaya, located 100 kms south of Patna, is of great significance to Hindus and Budhhists. It is on the bank of Phalgu river. Here Lord Budhha preached the essence of life and Lord Vishnu preached the reality of death. It is believed that this place has been blessed by Lord Vishnu with purificatory powers to the “Atma”.The well known Vishnupad temple is situated at Andhargaya on the bank of river Phalgu and about 3 Kms from the heart of the town whereas Bodhi briksha (Bodhi tree) and Mahabodhi temple is situated at Bodhgaya which is about 11/ 13 Kms from the heart of the town.Legend has it that a gentle demon named Gaya, appalled by the sorrow caused by death, complained to Vishnu, and as protest died for the world. Impressed by his resolve, Vishnu blessed Gaya with the power to absolve sinners. Like Varanasi, and many other riverside towns, Gaya is a “tirtha” – a crossing across the celestial divide.  

Pawapuri:
Pawapuri is also known as Apapuri, it is believed that all sins for a devout Jain end here. Lord Mahavira who was the last Tirthankar breathed his last here around 500 B.C and was cremated on the bank of a large lake, overflowing with beautiful lotuses. Pawapuri, the place where Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, attained his enlightenment is located 38 kms from Rajgir and 90 kms from Patna.Legend has it that after the cremation of Mahavira, in order to meet the demand for his ashes, a large amount of soil was removed from around the funeral pyre, creating the water-tank. The beautiful marble Jalmandir was later built in the middle of the tank. Jal Mandir, the white marble temple in the middle of this lake, blooming with beautiful lotus flowers affords a breathtakingly enchanting sight. A large number of Jain pilgrims throng here. Samosharan, another Jain temple, is also located here. There are five other temples in the vicinity.

Vaishali:
The world’s first democracy with a duly elected council– Vajji, had its seat of administration in Vaishali. Being associated with Buddha and Jain Tirthankars, Vaishali has emerged as a historical and scenic place. Lord Buddha came thrice here and also gave his last sermon at Vaishali. Amrapali, a courtesan, gifted a mango grove to Buddha and later she became a Buddhist nun. Vaishali was also the venue for the second Buddhist council, 100 years after the death of Buddha.Vaishali is also considered to be the birthplace of Jain Tirthankar, Mahavira, by the Swetambar sect of Jains. Many historical monuments and material were found in the excavations at Vaishali

Barabar caves:
The Barabar caves, generally found in the shape of a cottage or hut, open on one side with other three sides walled with stone. With their interiors smooth and soothing, these caves also served as retreats for the Jain and Buddhist monks. Among the Buddhist caves, the Lomas Rishi cave is the finest example of the world famous Indian Buddhist Chaitya arch style.

Barabar hills:
Barabar hills located at a distance of 20 kilometers from Gaya in Bihar, comprises numerous temples constructed from black granite stones. Built for the first time during Ashoka’s reign with contributions in the later period also, these caves look like wood from a distance.

Nagarjuna caves:
The Nagarjuna caves, large in size, depicts the Jataka tales. An excellent work of architecture, these caves includes bow shaped arches at the entrance, circular halls and mini caves, all polished from inside. The Sudama cave, a two chambered structure with polished interiors, is the perfect example of this type of cave. Towards the north of the Sudama cave lies Karan Choper or Supriya cave, which is a single chambered structure with a vaulted roof and small gate. Secondly, the caves of the five Pandavas form another part of the Barabar caves. THese caves, used by five brothers, the Pandavas in their exile in the Mahabharata period, are small in size.

Swarna Bhandar:
The Swarna Bhandar or the King Bimbisara’s treasury, is also known as the twin rock cut caves in Rajgir. a major tourist destination, two cave chambers were hollowed out of a single massive rock, one of which is believed to have been the guards’ room. The rear wall or the doorway which has two straight vertical lines and one horizontal line cut into the rock, is supposed to lead to king Bimbisara’s treasury. The inscriptions carved on the wall in Sankhalipi or shell script has not be deciphered yet and considered to be the clue to open the golden treasury.

Bodhi Tree:
This tree is worshipped as holy, divine and as a giver of enlightenment and wisdom. It is under this banyan tree (a pipal tree) that Lord Buddha meditated after renouncing all worldly pleasures and attained wisdom and divine enlightenment.The present Bodhi Tree is probably the fifth succession of the original tree under which the Buddha had attained enlightenment. Vajrasana (the posture in which he meditated), the seat of stability, is a stone platform on which the Buddha is supposed to have sat in meditation gazing east, under the Bodhi tree.

Mahabodhi Temple:
Buddhism is today a world renowned religion. It is this temple that witnessed the divine enlightenment of Gautama Siddartha who renounced all worldly pleasures to find the answers to the questions that stirred his soul. He meditated under a pipal tree here and attained insight and wisdom that he preached to the world. This tree is also referred to as the “Bodhi tree”. A visit to this holy place will explain to you why the UNESCO declared it as a World heritage site in the year 2002.The Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya built around 6th-7th centuries, is the largest but is a later structure constructed on the site of the Bodhi Shrine of Buddha. This temple was constructed by the famous Emperor Asoka who embraced Buddhism after feeling guilty of leading a life of war and destruction.
The temple is 170 ft high consisting of nine storeys of pyramidal towers. The structure has a stupa-shaped dome at the top. At the base of the main tower are four towers at each of the four corners. On the edifice are several niches with Buddha images depicting scenes from his life. As you enter the temple you can see the main shrine which is built where Buddha attained Enlightenment. The place is called “the Navel of the Earth” (puthavinabhim) where Buddha gained wisdom, knowledge and light and later experienced this joy of liberation for the next seven days sitting there.

TARA STHAN:
It is situated at a distance of about 16 Kms west of Saharsa in village Mahishi where an ancient temple of Bhagwati Tara is built. The idol of Bhagwati Tara is said to be very old and draws devotees from far and wide. On either side of the main deity, there are two smaller female deities which are worshipped by the people as Ekjata nad Nil Saraswati.

Chandika Sthan at BIRATPUR:
Biratpur village under Sonebarsa block of this district is famous for an ancient temple of goddess Chandi. This village is also associated with King Birat of the Mahabharat age. During exile the Pandavas had lived here for 12 years.The tantric Scholars and devotees attach much significance to this Chandi temple, which is said to form an equilateral triangle (TRIK) WITH Katyayani temple near Dhamhara ghat and Tara temple at Mahishi. During the Navratra people from distant places visit the village to offer prayers to the goddess of power.

Madan Bharti Asthan:
The place is situated in Mahishi Block. It is said that a religious discourse (Shastrath) was held between Shankaracharya and the local scholar Mandan Mishra. Bharti, wife of Madan Mishra, who was also a great scholar, was named as Judge for the discourse. It is also said that Shankaracharya, after his initial victory over Madan Mishra was challenged by Bharati, was outwitted by her and he (accepted defeat).

SUN Temple at Kandaha:
Like Deb (in Aurangabad district), the SUN Temple at Kandaha village is an important religious and historical place which has been duly recognized by the Archaeological Survey of India. The idol of sun god riding seven horsed chariot, has been carved on a single granite slab. At the door of the sanctum sanctorum, there are inscriptions which a deciphered by historians, confirm that this sun temple was built during the period of king Narsimha Deo of Karnata dynasty who ruled over Mithila in the 12th century. It is said that a brutal Mughal emperor named Kalapahad had damaged the temple which was however renovated by the famous saint poet Laxminath Gosai.

Laxminath Gosai Sthal at Bangoan:
The famous saint and poet of which is hardly 9 Km away from the district head quarter. The huge bunyan tree under which the remains of Gosaiji have been preserved is the centre of great reverence for the people of the district.

Dewan Ban Mandir:
One Shiv Ling is established in the temple situated in Sahpur-Manjhoul of Nauhatta block. It is said that the Ling was established by Maharaja Shalivahan some time in 100BC. The Hindus celebrate a festival called jitiya after the name of Jimutbahan who was the son of Maharaja Shalivahan. Description of this place is found in Shri Puran. The ancient shrine at Dewan Ban was washed away by the turbulent Koshi river. The local people have however build another temple in the adjacent area.

Nauhatta:
It is an old village, important since the time of Mughals and is presently the head quarters of the block of the same name. The village has a ‘Shiva temple’ about 80 feet in height. The temple which was damaged in the earthquake of 1934 was reconstructed by Raja Srinand Singh of Srinagar Estate. There is a grave of Madho Singh on an earthen mound about 50 feet high. Madho Singh had become a martyr in the battle of Ladri Ghat. Offerings are made on he rave both by Hindus and Muslims.

Bihar School of Yoga:
Bihar School of Yoga houses a Yoga Research Library. Comprising of a well-stocked and large collection of books and data, the library is an asset in itself. Here, you will find the school’s publication on Yoga, health techniques and research, apart from other books on yoga. The school, located at Ganga Darshan, is built over a large hill overlooking the Utter-Vahini Ganga. The location of the training is very apt, as it provides the perfect ambience for the establishment of such a training centre.

Bhimbandh Wild Life Sanctuary:
Occupying an area of about 682 sq km, Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the south-west of Munger District of Bihar. The sanctuary falls to the south of the river Ganges and is at a distance of 56 km from Munger. Besides being famous for its wildlife, the place is also well accounted for its hot water springs. These hot springs are basically found at the valley portion and the foothills of Bhimbandh.
Nearest Petrol Pump:
Petrol Pump Dobhi Gaya:Gaya,Bihar,India
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Lotus Nikko Bodhgaya Hotel:Bodhgaya,Gaya,Bihar,India   Hotel Pankaj:Tekari Road,Gaya,Bihar,India,MO:09955811250 Hotel Gharana:South Church Road,Near Gandhi Maindan,Gaya,Bihar,India,ph:0631 2225512
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Tips & Suggestions:
 
Help Line/Phone Number:
Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:
Government Hospital:Jehanabad,Bihar,India
Holy Family Hospital:Koderma,Jharkhand,India
Society/Community Phone Number:
Link:

Sita Ram Upadhyay Museum

Sita Ram Upadhyay Museum-Bihar
About:
Sita Ram Upadhyay Museum is located on Ram Rekha Ghat Road at Buxar Quila.Sita Ram Upadhyay Museum houses various types of Archaeological objects, coins and manuscripts. Shri Sita Ram Upadhyaya donated his personal collection to the museum.The terracotta collection of Mauryan and Shungan period deserve special mention. Sita Ram Upadhyay Museum remains closed on Mondays, Chhatha, Independence Day, Republic Day, Holi, Dussehra and May Day.   Buxar is an administrative district in the state of Bihar in India. The district headquarters are located at Buxar.Buxar The district occupies an area of 1624 km² and has a population of 1,403,462 (as of 2001). Explore the hotels and packages with India.The town Buxar is located on the bank of river Ganges (Ganga). A road bridge over Ganges connects Buxar with Ballia district of neighboring state Uttar Pradesh.Indian travel agent gives special discounted hotel from budget hotels to Deluxe hotels in India. The town is connected to the state capital Patna by rail and road routes. Substantial proportion of trade activities are with well connected towns and cities in Uttar Pradesh such as Varanasi, Ballia and Ghazipur.
Location info:
Address:Sita Ram Upadhyay Museum,Patna,Bihar,India
District:Patna
Nearest City:Buxar
Best time to visit: October to March
Climate/Weather:
The climate of the state is tropical with hot summers and cold winters. Monsoon brings medium to high rainfall and floods several areas in north Bihar. Humidity levels remain high in north and central Bihar throughout the summer and monsoon season, making them quite uncomfortable. The best time to visit the state is from October to March.
History:
In the year 1979, Buxar Museum was established with a few good stone sculptures and coins. Hundreds of very good Terracottas collected by a local resident late Shri Sita Ram Upadhyaya was donated to the Buxar Museum and in the year 1993, the Govt. of Bihar, on request, renamed it as the Sita Ram Upadhyaya Museum after the name of the donor. The museum is famous for magnificent terracotta collections, especially the terracotta figurines belonging to the Mauryan and Shunga period (3rd–2nd Cent B.C.). Besides, there are a few stone sculptures and coins preserved in this museum as well.
Interesting things to do:

Sonepur Mela: 
One of the most astonishing cattle fairs to be held in Asia in terms of its size and scale. The sleepy little town of Sonepur (22 km form Patna) is thrown into frenzy on Kartik Purnima , a fortnight after Diwali , as people from all over the world congragate to participate in this huge festival and is enjoyed by all.During the period Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation provides facilities in traditional huts.

Chhath Festival: 
The festivities accompanying the celebreation of freshly harvested paddy and its offerings made to the Sun God have to be seen to be believed. Joy and colour mark the Chhath festivities as thanks are offered to the lord of Crops and the creator of the seasons. Devotional songs to the Sun God and fasting all day long make the Chhath Festival a day of thanks giving. Devotees walk barefoot in the penance to the venue of the celebrations. Lighted earthen lamps are floated down the river at evening time.
Interesting things to Visit:
Chausagarh:
In the Buxar district of Bihar Chausa or Chausagarh is situated at a distance of about 11 Kms. East of the district headquarter Buxar. Chausa, very well known in the annals of Indian history as the place where in 1539 A.D. Sher Shah defeated the Mughal emperor Humayun, is also a place of great antiquity.Explore Special Holidays with us  

Arts and Crafts: 
Madhubani paintings are indigenous to the state. The renditions by rural women, these village paintings have a large market in the urban areas as well as on the export front. Created strictly by the women of Mithila. they are etched in primary colours of natural origin on paper and cloth. Their subjects are mythology and religious events.

Tomb of Yahya Maneri:
The Tomb of Yahya Maneri lies in a mosque to the east of a large tank, with masonry walls and ghats, and pillared porticos, which is connected with the old bed of the Son by a tunnel, 400 feet long. The tomb is situated in an enclosure half filled with graves and ancient tress. On the north and west of which are three domed mosque and some quaint little cloisters build by lbrahim Khan.

Ganga river:
The Ganga has an exalted position in the Hindu ethos. It is repeatedly invoked in the Vedas, the Puranas, and the two Indian epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Ganga is a goddess, Ganga devi, one of two daughters of Meru (the Himalayas), the other being Uma, consort of Shiva. In her youth, Indra had asked for Ganga to be given to heaven to soothe the Gods with its cool waters. The story of its descent to earth appears in slightly different forms in Ramayana, Mahabharata and in the Puranas. These myths are variously dated between 2000 to 400 BC

Ganga River Basin:
The Ganga River basin is affluent with perennial rivers and streams having special significance in the region it flows. Some of the important rivers in the Ganga River Basin are as followsThe approximately 260 km long distributary of the Ganges River in West Bengal, India. The river divides from the Ganges as a canal in Murshidabad District at the Farakka Barrage. The town of Hugli-Chinsura was formerly known as Hooghly. This town is located on the river, in the Hooghly (district). The origins of the name of Hooghly River are not known, whether the city or the river derived the name first.
Mobile range info:
 
How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:Patna is connected by rail to Bombay, Calcutta, Guwahati, Ranchi, Varanasi.
Nearest Airport:The flights of Indian Airlines, Sahara India, Air Deccan and Jet Airways connect Patna with Bombay, Calcutta, Delhi, Lucknow, Ranchi and many other major cities.
Road Transport:All – weather motorable roads connect Patna with the rest of Bihar. There are also regular inter – state bus services.By road Patna to Nalanda-95 km, Rajgir-110 km, Pawapuri-90 km, Gaya-120 km, Bodhgaya-135 km, Raxaul-210 km, Ranchi-335 km, Muzzafarpur-78 km, Sasaram- 152 km, Vaishali-56 km, Calcutta-653 km, Delhi-997 km. Bus : Regular direct bus services connect Patna to Calcutta, Rajgir, Nalanda, Pawapuri, Vaishali, Gaya-Bodhgaya, Ranchi, Raxaul, Muzzafarpur, Sasaram.
Nearest Visiting places:
Golghar: 
Alarmed by the famine of 1770, captain John Garstin built this huge granary for the British army in 1786. The massive structure is 29 m high and the walls are 3.6 m wide at the base. The winding stairway around this monument offers a brilliant panoramic view of the city and the Ganga flowing by.Golghar or the round house, the huge granary was built in 1786 by Captain John Garstin, at the behest of the then administrator, Warren Hastings. Bihar experienced severe draught that resulted in acute famine in the year 1770. Alarmed by the situation faced by the people, this massive granary was constructed for the British army.The enormous structure is 29 m high and is 3.6 m wide at the base. Overlooking the river and the plains, it looks like the upper half of a gigantic, decorated Easter egg, with the spiral stairway winding around this monument, adding to its embellishment. It offers a magnificent breathtaking view of the city and the river Ganges, flowing nearby.

Martyr’s Memorial: 
A memorial to seven freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives in the Quit India Movement of August 1942, the Martyr’s Memorial is a modern sculpture facing the Secretariat, where they were shot in their attempt to host the national flag.Life-size statues in front of the aged secretariat compound have been put up in memory of seven brave young men who faced bullets for the freedom of the country and sacrificed their lives in August 1942 in the historic struggle for India’s independence during “Quit India” movement. It is a modern sculpture with life dimension statues of the seven martyrs’, in front of the Secretariat where they were shot in their attempt to hoist the national tricolor.

Harmadir TakhtHar Mandir Takht: 
Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, was born in 1660 in Patna. The Har Mandir Takht, one of the four sacred shrines of the Sikhs, stands at this holy site. The original temple was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and contains belongings of the Guru and Sikh holy texts. The Harmandir Takht, one of the four holy shrines of the Sikhs, stands at this holy site, The original temple was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and contains belongings of the Guru and Sikh holy texts. As a sign of reverence, it is also called Patna Sahib by the Sikhs. The Harmandir Temple, also referred to as Patna Sahib, is the second most important pilgrimage of the Sikhs after the Golden Temple of Amritsar. The Takht Harmandir was built by Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th guru of the Sikhs. The gurudwara is made of white marble and is great piece of art. The Harmandir Temple Located in Patna City, the elder part the city, it also houses a museum on it’s third floor.

Patna MuseumPatna Museum: 
The Patna Museum houses a First World War cannon, metal and stone sculptures of the Mauryan and Gupta periods, Buddhist sculptures and quaint terracotta figures. A 16 m long fossilised tree is one of its special features.Patna museum was established in the year 1917 by the British Government.The building of the museum was built in the style of Rajput and Mughal architecture.It is a multipurpose museum.The museum is the storehouse of archaeological objects, coins, art objects, paintings, instruments, textiles, paintings, thankas, bronze images and sculptures and terracotta. Patna museum is divided into 11 different sections.

Pathar ki Masjid: 
Adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib, on the bank of the Ganga, is this beautiful mosque built by Parwez Shah, son of Jehangir, when he was the governor of Bihar. It is also called Saif Khan’s mosque, Chimmi Ghat mosque and Sangi Masjid.Stone Mosque or Pathar Ki Masjid was built in 1621 by Parvezshah, son Emperor Jahangir , when he was the Governor of Bihar. Adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib, this beautiful mosque was built by Parwez Shah when he was the governor of Bihar. It is situated on the bank of the Ganga, it is also called Saif Khan’s mosque, Chimmi Ghat mosque and Sangi Masjid.

Sher Shah Suri Masjid: 
Sher Shah Suri built this mosque in 1545 to commemorate his reign. Built in the Afghan architectural style, it is one of the many beautiful mosques in Bihar, and one of the impressive landmarks of Patna.Khuda Baksh Oriental Library: Founded in 1900, a magnificent one man collection of rare Arabic and Persian manuscripts, Rajput and Mughal paintings, oddities like the Koran inscribed in a book only 25mm wide and an assortment of old and new books from the University of Cordoba, Spain. It is one of the national libraries in India. The library also contains the only books to survive the sacking of the Moorish University of Cordoba in Spain.Sher Shah Masjid was built by Sher Shah Suri, to commemorate his reign. Built in Afghan architectural style, it is one of the many beautiful mosques in Bihar and a landmark in Patna. An Afghan chieftain, who defeated Mughal Emperor Humanyun to rule Delhi. Locally known as Shershahi, the mosque was built in 1545, making it the oldest mosque in Patna.

Jalan Museum: 
Built on the foundations of Sher Shah’s fort, Qila House contains an impressive private collection of antiques, including a dinner service that once belonged to George III, Marie Antoinette’s Sevres porcelain, Napoleon’s four-poster bed, Chinese jade and Mughal silver filigree,.It is a private collection, and prior permission is required for a visit.Jalan Museum, also known as Quila House, is constructed at the old site of Shershah’s Fort, in Patna of Bihar.The museum houses private collections of Chinese porcelains, paintings, jade and silver filigree work of the Mughal period.Prior permission is required to enter the museum.

Sadaqat Ashram: 
The Ashram is the headquarters of Bihar Vidyapeeth, a national university. India’s first president, Dr. Rajendra Prasad lived here after his retirement and there is a small museum here showcasing his personal belongings.The beautiful bungalow of Sadaqat Ashram in Patna is situated at the bank of the river Ganga. This fantastic location of the Sadaqat Ashram attracts many tourists every year. Here people visit the museum to learn more about the last days of Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s life

AgamkuanAgam Kuan: 
Agam Kuan (Unfathomable well) is one of the most important early historic archeological remains in Patna. It is situated just close to Gulzarbagh railway Station, which is proposed to be associated with the Mauryan Emperor Ashok.The Agam Kuan refers to an “abysmal well” and it is situated on the eastern part of the capital of Bihar, namely Patna. It was built during the Mauryan Empire and ‘Ashoka the great’. Agam Kuan in Patna, BiharThis magnificent monument in Bihar is 105 feet deep and 20 inch in diameter. Half of the well is made of ornamented bricks. One of the spectacular things in this well is its arch-shaped windows

Padri ki HaveliPadri 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.

Deer at Sanjay Gandhi Biological ParkBiological Park: 
Owing to its huge size, Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park is considered among one of the biggest zoos in India. The park houses more than three hundred species of trees including of orchids, ferns and roses. Each of these species has been kept in different houses and even their names have been given accordingly.The presence of the rare white tiger makes Sanjay Gandhi Biological park unique. Other than white tiger, the park has single male zebra, rhino of single horn, hippopotamus, and many cubs and tigers. The population of leopard is expected to rise in coming year for they have started breeding now. There are some 70 species of animals. Some rare species of animals such as clouded leopard, crocodile, Himalayan bear, lion tailed macaque, leopard cat, hog deer, and white peacock, etc. have been kept here. The total population of animals is around 800. The park is excellent exhibition of wildlife.

PlanetoriumModern Planetarium: 
Indira Gandhi Science Complex, is one of the must visiting places in Patna. This is among few Planetarium’s (Taramandal) in India.A planetarium is a theatre built primarily for presenting educational and entertaining shows about astronomy and the night sky, or for training in celestial navigation. A dominant feature of most planetariums is the large dome-shaped projection screen onto which scenes of stars, planets and other celestial objects can be made to appear and move realistically to simulate the complex ‘motions of the heavens.

Kumhrar 80 pillar HallKumhrar: 
Kumhrar, site of the ancient city of Patliputra, lies 5 kms from Patna railway station. Archaeological findings in this area establish Patna’s claim to over a thousand years of political glory – 600 BC to 600 AD. Very little of this grandeur remains though, except for the remains of a huge Mauryan hall supported by 80 sandstone pillars dating back to 300 BC.Kumhrar, located in the city of Patna, is the site that consists of the archaeological excavations of Patliputra and marks the ancient capital of Ajatshatru, Chandragupta and Ashok. The remains of the ancient city of Patilputra have been uncovered in Kumhrar, south of Patna. It is six kms from the railway station, on the Kankarbagh Road. Excavations here have releaved relics of four continuous periods from 600 BC to 600 AD. An important find is the 80-pillared huge hall of the Mauryan dynasty.
Nearest Petrol Pump:
IOC Petrol Pump:Patna,Bihar,India Petrol Pump:Patna,Bihar,India
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Hotel Chanakya:Beer Chand Patel Marg,Patna,Bihar,India,Ph:0612 2223141

Hotel Satkar International:Fraser Rd,Patna,Bihar,India,Ph:0612 2220551 Hotel Nand:R. K. Bhattacharya Rd,Patna,Bihar,India,ph:0612 2322732
Things to carry:
 
Tips & Suggestions:
 
Help Line/Phone Number:
Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:
Kurji Holy Family Hospital:Sadaquat Ashram,Kurji,Patna,Bihar,India,ph:0612 2262516
Dr Akhori Shashi Bhushan Sahaya:146,Shree Krishna Nagar,Boring Road,Patna,Bihar,India,ph:0612 2533469
Society/Community Phone Number:
Link: