Patna is a city abounding in the relics of the bygone ages. Takht Harmandir Saheb is of religious importance to the Sikhs and is believed to be the place of birth of the last Sikh guru, Govind Singh. The Jalan Museum with a rare collection of curios. Sher Shah’s mosque in the heart of the city is a splendid example of Afghan architecture. Among the numerous mosques in Patna, Begum Hajjam’s mosque stands as the oldest. Saif Khan’s Madarsa mosque, built in 1630, commands a magnificent view of the riverfront. Saif was married to Malika Bano, the elder sister of Mumtaz Mahal, the wife of emperor Shahjahan. Excavations at Kumhrar have yielded the remains of a Mauryan palace with sandstone pillars. One can still see Agam Kuan or the fathomless well, which was part of Ashoka’s hell for prisoners. The famous Mahendru Ghat in today’s Patna is the reminder of Mahendru (Ashoka’s brother) who had sailed from this very Ghat to Ceylon in order to preach Buddhism. The Khuda Baksh Oriental library is a treasure trove of medieval manuscripts. The Patna Museum is noted for its collection of statues and a very old fossilized tree, 16 meters high. Close to the museum is the Gol Ghar, the 29 meter high beehive shaped granary constructed in 1786, following a terrible famine. The Patna Cemetery is a historically important European monument situated in what was once a Haveli (mansion) and is now a hospital. Some distance from the cemetery is the Padri ki Haveli, a Catholic church with an imposing façade.
Thirty kilometers from Patna is Maner, a medieval stronghold of the Turks and the site of the shrines of Hazrat Makhdum Yahya Maneri and his son Shafruddin Ahmed Maneri.
Tour to Bihar The remains of an ancient fort with massive cyclopean walls together with other sites amidst lush green surroundings of Rajgriha recreate the glory of the past. Until the discovery of Mohenjodaro and Harappa, this was believed to be the oldest architectural remains in India. The site is equally revered by the Jains, as their 24 Tirthankars are believed to have practiced austerities on the different hills of Rajgriha. The Jal Mandir at Pawapuri (the sinless city) marks the site where Vardhamana Mahavira (the 24th Tirthankar) was cremated while Parasnath hill is associated with the Nirvana of the 23rd Tirthankar, Sri Parsvanath.
Nalanda, in the heart of Bihar, stands as the world’s most ancient seat of learning. The ruins confirm the university’s ability to cater to the needs of 10,000 students until the 12th century AD. The excavations have yielded numerous monasteries, temples, stupas and statues of Buddha. The Vikramshila University was an important institution of Tantric Buddhism and there was a regular exchange of teachers between the two universities.
Bodh Gaya houses the site of the sacred Mahabodhi tree where the Buddha attained enlightenment. Adjoining the tree is the high-spired Mahabodhi temple considered to be the most sacred shrine for Buddhists. Add to this the Hindu legend of Gaya, which was the name of a demon that grew so powerful that the gods felt threatened. As a pre-condition to his death, he demanded that the area covered by his body should be one of the holiest spots of the world. This land is believed to be Gaya.
Rajmahal is a medieval settlement on the eastern fringe of Bihar. It is believed to have been founded by Raja Man Singh, the Rajput general of Emperor Akbar. It was earlier a strategic place for the Bengal sultans who pitched their advance tent here before moving on to any military campaign.
The picturesque mausoleum of Sher Shah at Sasaram, outdoes the Taj Mahal in size, with a dome that surpasses it by 13 feet. Also at Sasaram we find the mausoleum of Sher Shah’s father, Hasan Shah Sur. No less picturesque is the tomb of Sher Shah’s son, Salim Shah, built in the center of a lake. On the outskirts of the village is the tomb of Aliwal Khan, the chief architect working for Sher Shah. A few hours’ drive from Sasaram takes one to the Rohtasgarh fort. In the words of Abul Fazal it is “a well defended paradise (fort) with no equal for strength and solidity.” The fort, 28 miles in circumference, is a perfect platform for eco-tourism projects. It is perched high on the Kaimur hills and there are abundant springs and numerous monuments that bring to life the history of its Mughal and Afghan governors and still later the Britishers who almost destroyed the surviving parts.
The Chotanagpur plateau spread over 34,000 square miles that encompass the southern half of Bihar, is one of the most fascinating places in India. There is no end to scenic attractions, waterfalls, deciduous forests, hills (rising up to 3,000 feet), plateaus (at an elevation of 1,000 feet), valleys, wildlife, and of course the aboriginals, who predominate this region. Add to this the salubrious climate that makes the region an ideal getaway.
The oldest geological formation of India are found in the Chotanagpur plateau of Bihar that also stores a vast deposit of a variety of minerals that cater to national and international needs. Bihar, on an average accounts for half the total output of coal and mica, the whole of copper and about 45 per cent of the iron produced in India. It is also the only region in the country to have Uranium mines.
Prominent places in Chotanagpur include Ranchi (2,140 feet), a picturesque hill station that inspired Tagore to compose a book of poems; Netarhat or the ‘queen of Chotanagpur’ is perched at 3,700 feet and offers beautiful sunset and sunrise views; Palamau is famous for its tropical forest and is rich in wildlife, and is the place where the world’s first tiger census was conducted in 1932. As of today, there are 45 tigers in the reserve and they are now said to be venturing out in search of new territories. No less interesting is the Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary nestling at a low terrain (1,800 feet). Hazaribagh is also vying for a place in the international heritage list for its recent findings of rock paintings, caves, stone age tools and smelted iron slag that shows a much early advent of the Iron Age than the theorized Chalcolithic age. At another village in Hazaribagh, the archaeologists have unearthed densely packed layer of pottery shards that are identical to those found at Harappa.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS in Bihar
Though Bihar
celebrates almost all the north India festivals, it has a festival that is
unique to the state. Chhath is the most important festival of the state and is
celebrated six days after Diwali, when people from all castes can stand
together in the river and worship the sun god. The rituals related to Chhath
are very stringent and there are several folktales, songs, and special sweets
that make this festival a unique experience.
Tour to Bihar Another unique ritual confined to
Bihar is the Pind-daan performed by the Gayawals in Gaya. It is considered to
be an obligation of all devout Hindus to visit this place after the death of
their parents, a mandatory rite believed to bring salvation to the departed
souls. Though the pind-daan can be performed almost any time of the year,
people prefer to do it during Pitrapaksha, which is the period just before
Navratri and generally falls in September.
In the summer month of June, the people of
Mithila in the village of Saurath organize a unique marriage mart in a mango
orchard. During this fair, parents whose children are of marriageable age come
here and the Mithila Brahmins settle a record number of marriages during this
time.
Sonepur is the venue of a grand cattle fair held
in the month of November. The fair is ranked as the world’s largest and it is
not simply confined to animal trade but numerous shows and performances are
also a part of the fair. Visitors also pay obeisance at the nearby temple of
Hariharnath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Tourist destination in Aurangabad
Introduction
Aurangabad district is
situated on the Grand Trunk Road. The National Highway-2 passes through the
district connecting it to Delhi in the north and West Bengal in the east.
Obra is famous for its carpet and blanket industry. The carpet-weaving
tradition here can be traced back to the 15th century with its main hub today
being village Koriepur.
India’s freedom struggle had many a participant from Aurangabad, and ‘Bihar
Vibhuti’ Anugrah Narayan Sinha, a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and
Rajendra Prasad, hailed from the district. Sinha was also a member of the
Constituent Assembly that wrote the Indian Constitution. In post-Independence
days, he served the state as its first finance minister
Places of Interest
Deo Sun Temple
Built in 8th century AD by Chandravanshi King Bhairavendra Singh, this is one
of the ancient Sun temples of the country. Reference to the temple can also be
found in Puranas and other religious texts. The lOO-ft high temple resembles
the temple at Konark in its architectural form. A unique thing about the Deo
temple is that it faces west unlike the traditional Sun temples which face
east. Needless to say, Deo is the place where Chhath, Bihar’s most sacred festival
devoted to the Sungod,can be best seen.
Daud Khan Fort
This fort is situated at Daudnagar, on the eastern bank of the river Sone. It
was founded by Doud Khan, governor of Bihar under the 17th century Mughal
emperor Aurangazeb. Governor Doud is said to have stopped and taken rest at the
place on his way back from a conquest, and fonded the town named after him.
Later, Aurangazeb granted Daudnagar to him. There are an mosque and many
‘sarais’, built by Daud Khan as well his grandson Ahmed Khan, in the town.
Fairs & festivals
Deo Mahotsava is organised every year near the famous Deo Sun Temple. The
two-day extravaganza is held in the month of February-March with artistes,
local as well as those of national repute, showcasing their art during the
fest. The Mahotsava is also listed in the state tourism calendar.
Jamhor,three km from Aurangabad’s Anugrah Narayan Road railway station,is the
most sacrosanct place after Gaya for Hindus for offering ‘pindsdaan’ to their
forefathers.The place is situated on the bank of river Punpun.
HOW TO REACH
Nearest Airport
Bodh Gaya International Airport
102 Km form Aurangabad
Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport Patna
126 Km form Aurangabad
By Rail: (Rail Route Map)
Nearest railhead
Anugrah Narayan Road
14 Km from the district HQ
Rafiganj
20 km From the district HQ
By Road:
Regular bus services-both private and government-from Patna.
Where to Stay:
Hotels, Rest houses and Dharmshalas in the Aurangabad Town.
J.K.Hotel Phone No : +91 94302 61426 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting
+91 94302 61426 end_of_the_skype_highlighting,Ac
Rooms (Rs.550)
Non-Ac Rooms (Rs.250 Single; Rs.350 Double)
Hotel Royal Phones No : +91 93045 01479
begin_of_the_skype_highlighting
+91 93045 01479 end_of_the_skype_highlighting,
+91 99313 67351
begin_of_the_skype_highlighting
+91 99313 67351 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Local Transport:
Auto rickshaws, Cycle-rickshaws, tangas.
In Emergency, Contact
District Magistrate: 06186-223167 (Off), 223168 (Res)
Superintendent of Police: 06186-223175 (Off), 223195 (Res)
Town Police Station: +91 94318 22231
begin_of_the_skype_highlighting
+91 94318 22231 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Medical Emergencies,Contact
Sadar Hospital: 06186-223183
Dr. Ramashish Singh (Physician): +91 94312 56220
begin_of_the_skype_highlighting
+91 94312 56220 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Dr. Anil Kumar Singh (Surgeon): +91 94312 78953
begin_of_the_skype_highlighting
+91 94312 78953 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Tourist Season
October – November as lakhs of devotees throng the Deo Sun Temple during the
period to observe Chhath.
February-April when Dep Mahotsav is organised.
Clothing:
Light cotton in summer and woolen in winter (specially during November to
January).
Tourist Places in Begusarai
Introduction
Carved out of the old Munger district and notified as a district on October 2, 1972, Begusarai is a major industrial
Places of Interest
Situated 5 km west of Begusarai town on National Highway 31 at a place called Ulao, this temple is more than a century old and is embellished with exquisite murals of rich Rajasthani Shekhawati Art of painting. The theme of the paintings is based on the Ramayana, the Mahabharata
Panch Mandir Barauni Refinery
HERITAGE
Panch Mandir, another temple situated in close proximity to the Radhe Shyam Temple, is replete with Pala-era statues of various gods and goddesses and other artifacts of the same period. The Shivalinga in the temple also belongs to the Pala period.
Museums
The KP Jayaswal Radha Krishna Chaudhary Memorial Archaeological Museum, situated on the local
Son of The Soil
Famous Hindi poet, Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, belonged to
Fairs & Festivals
The month-long Simaria Mela,
HOW TO REACH
Distance from Patna: 120 km
By Air:(Air Route Map)
Nearest Airport
Jaya Prakash Narayan International Airport, Patna Private and state transport buses
By Rail: (Rail Route Map)
Nearest Railway Stations
Begusarai Jn is situated on the Barauni-Katihar section of ECR.
Barauni railway station is situated 15 km away from the district HQ.
Hathidah railway station is situated about 20 km away from the district HQ.
By Road:
Connected by good roads with all Indian cities.
Where to Stay:
Guest Houses: The state government, Barauni Refinery, Barauni Thermal Power Station and the Barauni Sudha Dairy have their own
Hotel Yuvraj, Barauni, STD
AC rooms and suites available with tariff ranging from Rs 1,500 to Rs 3,500
Hotel Samrat, Barauni, STD
AC and non-AC rooms available for Rs 180 to Rs 700
Hotel Blue Diamond, Begusarai, STD
AC rooms and suites available with tariff ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 1,500
Motel Sayonara, Begusarai, STD
Non-AC rooms available with tariff ranging from Rs 325 to Rs 500
WHERE TO EAT
Chilly’s, Tahiti Resort, NH 31
Phone: 244786
Celebrations, NH 31
Phone:243776
Ahaar Utsav, Barauni Refinery Township
Phone: 274289
Swayamprabha Restaurant, Motel Sayonara, near Begusarai railway station
Phone: 244078
Jubilee Dhaba, NH 31
Phone: 245973/274269
Local Transport:
Auto rickshaws, Cycle-rickshaws,
In Emergency,Contact, STD Code : 06243
District Magistrate: 212285 (Off), 200584 (Res)
Superintendent of Police: 213015 (Off), 200519 (Res)
Medical Emergencies,Contact, STD Code : 06243
Dr. M.N. Roy (Surgeon): 212849
Dr. Nalini Ranjan Singh (Ortho): 212877
Dr. Ramashraya Singh (Surgeon): 217281
Dr. K.K.Singh (Physician): 213630
Dr. Binay Kumar (Physician): 218440
Dr. Dinesh Prasad Singh (Physician): 212189
Sadar Hospital: 210002
Tourist Season
October-March as the
Clothing:
Light cotton in summer and woolen in winter (
Tourist Places in Bettiah
Introduction
The district of West Champaran is spread over an area of 5,229
Bettiah is 225 km northwest of Patna. It is the birthplace of famous writer Gopal Singh Nepali. Mahatma Gandhi started his famous ‘satyagraha’ from Bettiah.
To the north of the district is the hilly region of Nepal and to the south is Gopalganj and a part of East Champaran. To its east, it has East Champaran and to the west, it has
Gandak or Narayani and Sikrahana or little Gandak are the two major rivers of the district. Forests are confined to the northern tract (Sumeshwar and the Dun ranges).
Bettiah Raj was once a great estate and the two kings, Ujjain Singh
Bettiah had indigo planters who were oppressed by the colonial empire, and this resulted in
Valmiki Tiger Reserve (60 Kms from Bettiah) is one of the major attractions for tourists here.
Places of Interest
Valmiki Nagar
Valmiki Wildlife Sanctuary located in the
Spread over 900 sq km of forests, this encompasses Valmiki National Park (335 sq km) and also the Valmiki Tiger Reserve with enchanting locales for the enthusiasts of wilderness and deep forests. Contiguous with the Chitwan National Park of Nepal, the
The main carnivores in the available faunal community consist of
HOW TO REACH
It is well connected by rail route and roadways to almost all the major cities of the country.
By Air:(Air Route Map)
By Rail: (Rail Route Map)
By Road:
Connected by good roads with all Indian cities.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Kishan
Half-a-km from the railway station and bus stand Phone: 233188. AC and non-AC rooms available with tariff ranging from Rs 300 to Rs 1,200.
Hotel Amrapali
Half-a-km from the railway station in the middle of Bettiah town Phone: 242432, AC and non-AC rooms and suites available; tariff ranging from Rs 300 to Rs 1,500.
Hotel New Bharat Jalpan
Lal Bazar, Bettiah, Phone: 242570 Non-AC rooms available for Rs 220-Rs 400. There
Local Transport:
Auto rickshaws, Cycle-rickshaws,
In Emergency,Contact, STD Code : 06243
District Magistrate: 232534
Superintendent of Police: 232563
Medical Emergencies,Contact, STD Code : 06243
R R Memorial Hospital: 99344-09855
Tourist Season
October to March
Clothing:
Light cotton in summer and woolen in winter (
Ancient temples in Bihar
Vishnupada Temple
The Vishnupada Mandir is the
This temple is located along the Falgu River, marked by a footprint of Lord Vishnu known as Dharmasila, incised into a block of basalt. The Bhumihar Brahmins have been the traditional priests at Vishnupad Mandir in Gaya as
Mahabodhi Temple
The Mahabodhi Temple (Literally: “Great Awakening Temple”) is a Buddhist temple in Bodh Gaya, the location where Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, attained enlightenment. Bodh Gaya is located about 96 km (60 mi) from Patna, Bihar state, India. Next to the temple, to its western side, is the holy Bodhi tree. In the Pali Canon, the site is called Bodhimanda,[1] and the monastery there the Bodhimanda Vihara. The tallest tower is 55 metres (180 ft) tall.
Maner Sharif
Maner Sharif is located 25 kilometres (16 mi) west of Patna on NH 30. It is the popular medieval site in Bihar. Maner enjoys position of one of the chief spiritual centers in India. Maner Sharif houses two very popular Muslim tombs:
* One of Makhdoom Yahya Maneri known as the Bari Dargah.
* Onother of Shah Daulat or Makhdum Daulat, popularly called Chhoti Dargah.
Tourist places in Bhagalpur
Introduction
Bhagalpur is one of the oldest districts of Bihar, located in the eastern part of the state. It was once rated among the six best silk-producing Indian cities, and is still known as ‘Silk City’. Here, the river Ganga flows towards the north and is, therefore, referred to as ‘Uttarvahini Ganga’.
One of the major industries here is the power generation unit of National Thermal Power Corporation. The power plant is situated at Kahalgaon, nearly 30 km from Bhagalpur district HQ town. Bhagalpur is well-connected by rail to most parts of the country, and is a major station between Kiul Junction and Howrah on the Delhi-Patna-Kolkata route.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Kuppa Ghat
Also known as Mehi Ashram, it was founded by revered Hindu saint Maharshi Mehi
Das. Situated on the bank of river Ganga, it is an epitome of peace and
serenity and it is a divine experience to spend time here.
Jain temple The famous temple of Vaasupujya Bhagwan Mahavir Jain is
located at Nathnagar, and it attracts thousands of tourists and Jain devotees
from across the country.
Karngarh
Situated in the Nathnagar area on the outskirts of Bhagalpur city, it used to
be the abode of King Kama. The grandiosity with which Dussehra puja is
organised here is to be seen to be believed.
Burhanath Temple
Situated on the bank of river Ganga in Jogsar locality, this ancient Lord Shiva
temple, known to command mystic energy, attracts people from different walks of
life. It is also known as Dudheshwara Mahadev Temple.
Khanqah-e-Shahbazia
Situated at Mulanachak, near the Bhagalpur railway station, it has been an
important reli- gious place and seminary of the Muslim community since the
Mughal era. A rich library having books on Arabic and Persian theological works
is also there at Khanqah-e-Shahbazia. It has a Holy Quran transcribed by
Murshid Quli Khan, the Nawab of Murshidabad.
Ghuran Peer Baba
Situated near the Kutchery Chowk, the place is famous among followers of all
faiths. Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs as well as others assemble here every Friday to
seek the blessings of ‘Peer Baba’, who is believed to command sacred powers.
Mandar Hill
Nearly 50 km from Bhagalpur at Bounsi on Bhagalpur-Dumka state highway, the
site is associated with’ a legend according to which this is the mountain that
was used for ‘Amrit Manthan’ (to churn the ocean for procuring nectar). The
legend has it that a ‘naag’ or snake was tied around the mountain to churn the
ocean, and people believe the snake that was used as a rope has left an
impression on the hill. A month-long Bounsi Mela is organised on the foothills
of Mandar every year. Mandar Hill is equally revered by Jains who believe that
their 12th Tirthankar attained ‘nirvana’ here.
Ajgaibinath Temple Situated nearly 39 km from Bhagalpur city at
Sultanganj on the bank of river Ganga, Ajgaibinath Temple of Lord Shiva is
visited by lakhs of devotees through out the year. The rush is huge during the
Shravan month of Hindi calendar. During the month-long Shravani fair, people
pay obeisance to Lord Shiva before proceeding to another temple at Deoghar in
Jharkhand. They also collect holy water from the river Ganga here and carry it
to Deoghar for offering it on the ‘Shivalinga’ in the Deoghar temple.
Yogini Dham
Nearly 100 km from Bhagalpur in Godda district, it is a famous rel gious place
of Goddess Durga. The original temple is situated on the mountain, and the
route to the temple is a replica of the famous Vaishno Devi cave in Jammu.
Hindus believe that people’s wishes are fulfilled after a visit to the temple
and that the sick are cured after they lie down on the platform of the temple.
Ruins of Vikramshila University Situated at Antichak in Kahalgaon
sub-division, 38 km from Bhagalpur, ancient Vikramshila University was hailed
as an epitome of learning and civilization during the Pala dynasty period of
783-820 AD. The university was established by King Dharampala of the Pala
dynasty of the then Bengal province (now Kahalgaon) in the year 783 AD.
Museum
There’s a museum at Sandy’s compound which remains open from 10.30 am to 4.30
pm every day except Monday. Entry is free.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
Bihula-Bishahari Puja or Mansa Puja
It is a local festival held’ at Nathnagar every July. Snakes are worshipped at
the Bishahari Sthan which is believed to be the site where a devout lady’s dead
husband became alive.
Durga Puja
It is celebrated with typical Bengali fervour. Broari (community) style of puja
at Durgabari and Kalibari, which is famous among the traditionally rich Bengali
community, attracts people from far-off places.
Kali puja
Bhagalpur’s Kali puja is also quite famous. ‘Akharas’ (mock display of
traditional combat art and martial art) are taken out on the roads as part of
the idol immersion processions.
HOW TO REACH
By Air:(Air Route Map)
Nearest Airport
Nearest airport: Patna Bhagalpur is prominently there on the Indian Railways’ map, and there are trains from all major stations, including Patna,to Bhagalpur.While the rail route distance between Bhagalpur and Patna is 223 km, it’s 240 km by road. Private taxis can be hired from Patna to go to Bhagalpur. Taking a train to the Silk City is wiser, though.
The rail route distance between Bhagalpur and Kolkata, capital city of West Bengal, is 456 km while it’s 465 km by road.
By Rail: (Rail Route Map)
Nearest railhead
Bhagalpur.
By Road:
Connected by good roads with all Indian cities.
Where to Stay:
Private Hotels/Guest Houses and Dharmshalas are available at Bhagalpur.
Hotel Rajhans International, STD Code: 0641, Phone: 2409411-15, 2300507; Fax: 2400816
AC and non-AC rooms and suites available with tariff ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 2,495
Hotel Nihar, STD Code: 0641, Phone: 2400516, 2400336, 9304236321
email: niharhotel@rediffmail.com
AC and non-AC rooms and suites available with tariff ranging from Rs 400 to Rs 1,500
Hotel Panchwati, STD Code: 0641, Phone: 2401023, 2401027, 2420494; Fax: 2421285
Email: krishnasic@rediffmail.com
AC and non-AC rooms and suites available with tariff ranging from Rs 400 to Rs 1,100.
Hotel Bhawan International, STD Code: 0641, Phone: 2408010, 2408011, 2426219, 9430021760
Email: hotel_bhawna@yahoo.co.in
AC and non-AC rooms and suites available with tariff ranging from Rs 599 to 1,800.
Hotel Sriyash Regency, STD Code: 0641, Phone: 2409397, 2409485
Email: sukulsanjoy@yahoo.com
AC and non-AC rooms and suites available with tariff ranging from Rs 599 to 1,800.
Single & double AC rooms & AC suites available with tariff ranging from Rs 1,200 to 2,085
Besides, there are several other budget hotels, guest houses & dharmashalas at Bhagalpur.
WHERE TO EAT
Royal Darbar: 9431422219
Mayfair: 2403853
The Treat: 9934877541
Hot Bits: .2420579
Big Bite: 2306857
Adarsh Jalpan: 2420524
Manali: 2303077
Local Transport:
Hired taxis/buses/Auto-rickshaws/ Cycle-Rickshaws/ Tangas.
In Emergency, Contact, STD Code: 0641
Inspector General of Police: 2400101, 2400901
District Magistrate: 2400012 (Off), 2401202 (Res), 9431213543 (Mobile)
Superintendent of Police: 2400103 (Off), 2401003 (Res), 9431800003 (Mobile)
Dy SP (Law & Order): 2420853 (Off), 2420824 (Res), 9431822601 (Mobile)
Kotwali Police Station: 2421302, 2461901
Police Control Room: 2400701, 100
Medical Emergencies,Contact, STD Code: 0641
Dr. S.N.Jha: 2400096, 2421752, 9431214233
Dr. B.K.Sinha: 2420710, 2422160, 9431214212
Dr. Manoj Kumar Jha: 2422144, 2424755
Dr. Mrityunjay Kumar: 2422077, 2420823, 9431214115
There are more than 50 nursing homes, private hospitals and clinics of different special- izations apart from a government hospital and Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College Hospital (JLN- MCH) at Bhagalpur.
Tourist Season
October to March.
Clothing: Light cotton in summer and woolen in winter (specially during November to January).
Tourist places in Arrah
Introduction
Ara, situated 50 km west of Patna, is the district HQ town of the Bhojpur district. The area, previously known as Aranya Kshetra, has a glorious past and has many historical sites and temples.
The district is also famous for its association with Veer Kuer Singh,one of the stalwarts of 1857 rebellion – the first war of Indian independence.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Ara House
It is a huge and magnificent building situated near Maharaja Collegeat Ara, two km from the Ara railway station.The building is famous as Veer Kuer Singh’s house. King of the erstwhile Jagdishpure state,Kuer Singh had valiantly fought the Britishersin 1857, and had kept several Britishers captivein the Ara House. Jain Museum Located 2.5 km from the railway station on Jail Road,the museum has rare collection of Jain literarytexts
Jagdishpur Fort
Situated 15 km from Araon National High way 34 is the Jagdishpur sub-divisional town which is known for being the birth place of VeerKuer Singh.Every year on April 24, the Bihar government organisesa function here to celebrate ‘Vijayotsava’ in memory of Kuer Singh’s victory over the Britishersin 1857.
Aranyadevi Temple
Situatedat Gopali Chowk, two km from the Ara railway station, is an old and famous temple of goddess Shakti.
Chandwa
Two km west from Ara town is the birth place of former deputy prime minister of India ,Babu Jagjiwan Ram. There’s a ‘samadhisthal’ of the great leader here.
Jain Temples
There are scores of Jain temples in and around Ara which are worth seeing.
HOW TO REACH
Distance from Patna: 50 km by train; 60 km by road.
Ara is situated on the Patna-Delhi main rail route. Almost every mail and
express train has a stoppage at the Ara railway station.
Ara is situated on the Patna-Buxar main road. One can take a bus or hire a taxi
from Patna to reach Ara.
By Air:
Nearest Airport
Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna (55 kms) Gaya International
Airport (145 kms).
By Rail:
Nearest railhead
Ara.
By Road:
Connected by good roads with all Indian cities.
Where to Stay:
Park View Hotel and Restaurant
Shahid Bhawan Road, Ara
Phone: 241312
AC and non-AC rooms are available for Rs 445-Rs 795
Regal Hotel and Restaurant
Shahid Bhawan Road, Ara
Phone: 222216
AC and non-AC rooms for Rs 425-Rs 695
In Emergency, Contact, STD Code: 06182
District Magistrate: 221312
Superintendent of Police: 221320
Town Police Station: 221561
Medical Emergencies,Contact
Dr. Bijay Kumar Singh: 9431438990
Dr. Vijay Kumar Singh: 9431027236
There are several nursing homes, private clinics and a government hospital at
Ara.
Local Transport:
Hired taxis/buses/Auto-rickshaws/ Cycle-Rickshaws/ Tangas.
Tourist Season
October to March.
Clothing:
Light cotton in summer and woolen in winter (specially during November
to January).
Tourist places in Gaya
Introduction
Gaya, one of the oldest districts of the state, was created on October 3, 1865. The place is of utmost religious importance for Buddhists as well as Hindus. It was at a distance of 14 km from the district HQ that about 2500 years back, Siddhartha Gautama, a wandering prince from the neighbouring Himalayan kingdom, attained enlightenment to become Lord Buddha.
For the Hindus too, the place is very important as it is associated with the final salvation of the soul. The performance of the ‘pindadaan’ rituals is mandatory for the salvation of souls. The Vishnupad temple, located here, is a very important shrine. The district is divided into four subdivisions, 24 blocks, and 31 police stations.
Places of Interest
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Mahabodhi Temple
Mahabodhi Temple,the seat of Buddha’s enlightenment, is located at Bodh Gaya.
Also located here are the Great Buddha statue, Thai Monastery, Tibetan Temple
having a mega Dhamma Chakra, Muclind Sarovar and Maya Sarovar.
Dhungeshwari
Dhungeshwari, six km to the south-east of Gaya town, is the place where Buddha spent six years in meditation and it was here that the Buddhist philosophy of ‘madhyam marg’ or middle path dawned on Buddha. Kurkihar Another place associated with Buddha at a distance of 15 km from Gaya town.
Vishnupad Temple
Vishnupad Temple, in Gaya town, is the seat of final salvation. Though the temple is exclusively opened for the Hindus, there is a non-Hindu gate facilitating the entry of non-Hindus up to a certain point outside the temple sanctum. Patharkatti Located at a distance of 25 km from Gaya town, the place is known for its stone products crafted by sculptors of unbelievable skill. Dharmaranya or Lo-Thu-Kaba Flanked on both sides by the rivers Mohane and Niranjana, three km away from the Sujata stupa in Bakaraur, is the unique site of Dharmaranya, mentioned in Hindu and Buddhist legends. As the name suggests, it is a place in jungle which has its roots in Dwapar age. It is said that Yudhisthir after the Mahabharata war had performed yajna for purification from sins. According to Tibetan Buddhists, Lord Buddha meditated here for six years under the Peepul tree. It is a belief that this was also the site of the hermitage of Uruvela Kashyap, who had become a disciple of the Buddha.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
‘Pitripaksha’ the annual festival of souls. The fortnight-long festival begins on ‘Anant Chaturdashi’ in September every year during which lakhs of Hindus visit Gaya to offer ‘pindadaan’ for salvationof their ancestral souls. ‘Pindadaan’ is offered here throughout the year, though.
Annual Urs
Annual Urs of Makhdum, a Sufi saint of the area, is held in the last week of ‘Shaban’ month of Islamic calendar.
Bauddha Mahotsav
The three-day cultural event is organised every year at the
Kalchakra Maidan of Bodh Gaya.
The Mahotsava begins on January 14.
Museum, South Church Road, Gandhi Maidan
Timings: 10.30 am to 4.30 pm
Entry free
Monday closed
HOW TO REACH
Gaya is connected by direct rail link to cities like Delhi,Kolkata,Mumbai,
Patna.It is 18 km to the south of the GT Road and the link road branches out of
the GT Road at a place called Dobhi.
Gaya has an international airport linking it with Colombo, Bangkok and Thimpu.
Many chartered planes land at the Gaya airport during tourist season.
The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC) runs a bus service
between Patna and Bodh Gaya. The BSTDC bus leaves Patna (near Hotel Kautilya)
at 7 in the morning and 2 in the afternoon. The fare is Rs 60 per person. There
is also an inter-city train service between Gaya and Patna. More than half a
dozen EMU trains ply between Gaya and Patna.
Private taxis are available at the Gaya railway station. Rate is
negotiable.
By Air:
By Rail:
Nearest railhead
Gaya.
By Road:
Connected by good roads with all major cities of India.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Ajatshatru, Near Gaya railway station
Phone: 2434584, Fax: 2434202
Tariff ranging from Rs 300 to Rs 900
Heritage
Inn, in
the middle of Gaya town
Phone: 2431009
Email: heritageinngaya@yahoo.com
Tariff ranging from Rs 600 to Rs 2500
Hotel
Sujata, Bodh Gaya
Phone: 2200761, Fax: 2200515
Email: hoteLsujata@yahoo.com
Website: www.hotelsujata.com
Tariff ranging from Rs 2,800 to Rs 4,200
Lotus
Nikko Hotel, Bodh Gaya
Phone: 2200700, Fax: 2200788
Email: lotusnikko_bodhgaya@yahoo.com
Tariff ranging from Rs 3,800 to Rs 8,500
Royal Residency, Bodh Gaya
Phone: 2200181, Fax: 2200367
Email: rrbodhgaya@gmail.com
website: www.theroyalresidency.net
Tariff ranging from Rs 6,000 to Rs 8,500
BSTDC’s
Tourist Complex,
Siddharth
Vihar, Bodh Gaya
AC & non-AC rooms are available Tariff (Oct-March): Rs. 800 (AC), Rs. 600
(non-AC);
Apr-Sept: Rs. 700(AC), Rs. 500 (non-AC)
Buddha
Vihar (Dormitory)
Tariff: Rs. 150 per bed (Attached bath)
Sujata
Vihar (Dormitory)
Tariff: Rs. 75 per bed (Common bath)
Phone: 2200445, Fax:2200127
In
Emergency, Contact, STD Code: 0631 District Magistrate: 2420005 (Off),
2420008 (Res)
Superintendent
of Police: 2420003 (Off), 2420004 (Res)
Medical Emergencies
,Contact, STD Code: 0631 Civil Surgeon: 2420009 (Res)
Dr.
A.N.Rai (Physician): 2433426
Dr.
Pandey Rajeshwari Prasad (Surgeon): 2423009
Dr.
Manju Sinha (Gynaecologist): 2422190
Local Transport:
Auto rickshaws, Cycle-rickshaws, tangas.
Tourist Season:
October to March.
Clothing: Light cotton in summer and woolen in winter (specially during November to January).
Tourist places in Gopalganj
Introduction
Gopalganj district was notified as a separate district in 1973. In 1758, Fateh Bahadur Sahi, a member of Hathwa Raj, led the war of independence in the district. But he had to shift his activities to Tamkuhi as some of his associates ditched him.
Places of Interest
WHAT T0 LOOK FOR
Thawe Durga Temple
located on the Patna-Gopalganj road, Thawe’s Durga Temple is visited by thousands of people every year. A huge fair is organised here during Dussehra in September-October.
Bhuri Shravar Ashram
Situated about 65 km from Gopalganj at Bhore, this Ashram dates back to the Mahabharata period.
Dhurna Kund
Situated about 20 km from Bhore town is an ancient Shiv Temple located right in the middle of river Khanua. Devotees have to reach the temple by boat. Another place of tourist importance is Amya in Kateya block, about 85 km from Gopalganj. lord Buddha had stayed here while he was on way to Kushinagar after getting enliglitenment.
LOCAL FAIR
The month-long Vaishakhi Mela at Thawe Durga Temple during Chaitra month is a
major tourist attraction.HOW TO REACH
By Air:
Nearest Airport
Gopalganj is connected by road with Patna in Bihar and Gorakhpur in UP Buses
ply regularly from Patna, Muzaffarpur, Siwan, Chhapra and Gorakhpur to
Gopalganj. Thawe is the nearest railway station, about five km from the district
HQ at Gopalganj.
By Rail:
Nearest railhead
Gopalganj.
By Road:
Connected by good roads with all Indian cities.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Vaibhav, STD Code: 06156, Phone: 226457, 225756
AC rooms with cable TV and other facilities available for Rs 600 to Rs 1160.
Ashish Hotel, STD Code: 06156, Phone: 226089
Rooms available at moderate tariff.
Kailash Hotel, Phone: 9431217090
Rooms available at moderate tariff.
There are several other private lodges and government-owned inspection
bungalows where rooms are available at affordable rates.
Local Transport:
Auto rickshaws, Cycle-rickshaws, tangas.
In Emergency, Contact,STD Code: 06156
District Magistrate: 224661 (Off), 224662 (Res), 9431016567
Superintendent of Police: 224669 (Off), 224668 (Res), 9431822991
Deputy SP (Sadar): 9431800070
Town Police Station SHO: 9431822488
Medical Emergencies,Contact
Dr. shambhu Nath Singh (Cardiologist): 9431424046
Dr. S.K.Jha: 9934673813
Civil Surgeon: 9431414065
Tourist Season
October to March.
Clothing:
Light cotton in summer and woolen in winter (specially during November
to January).