Tourist places in Nawada

Introduction

Situated on the National Highway-31 on Patna-Ranchi main road, some 120 km away from Bihar capital Patna, Nawada is a place of historical and mythological significance. Half of the Nawada district’s land is surrounded by forests and hills and several important places, like Kakolat Falls, offer a panoramic and pleasant natural sight to the tourists visiting Nawada.

The legend has it that Nawada was visited by Pandavas of the Mahabharata fame during their exile. Historians in their writings have acknowledged and discussed the discovery of several monuments, statues and coins of the Mauryan, Sunga, Pala and Mughal periods in different parts of the district. One can have a dekko at these finds, preserved in the Nardah Museum at Nawada town, the district HQ.

Peasant leader Swami Sahajanand made this district his workplace while Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan or JP, whose historic ‘Total Revolution’ call in 1970s led to the formation of the first non-Congress government in New Delhi, had his ‘Sarvodaya Ashram’ at Shekhodeora in the district’s Kauakol block.

Places of Interest

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sarvodaya Ashram

This Ashram, established by Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan, is 55 km away from the district HQ and is located in the forests at Shekhodeora village. Endowed with very natural and scenic beauty, the place had been a home to JP for quite some time.

Tourist inquiries about the Ashram can be made from 9934082815.

Nardah Museum

Nardah Museum is one of the prominent museums of Bihar with a very rich collection of ancient artifacts adorning its shelves. Several statues and coins of the Mauryan, Sunga, Pala and Mughal eras have been preserved at this museum, opened in 1973 soon after Nawada was carved out of Gaya as a separate district.

Kakolat

 Kakolat Falls is a popular water falls of the district that attracts people from different parts of the country for picnicking in the summer. Water here falls from approximately 150 ft above the ground level into a well maintained pond at Kakolat, 33 km from the district HQ. It is surrounded by lush green forests, which add to its beauty.

This is the place which, according to the legend, was visited by the great Pandavas during exile. Also, a mythological king, cursed by a saint to take the shape of a python, got salvation after bathing in the water here. Having gotrid of the curse, the king proclaimed that those who would take a bath in the waterfall would never be reborn as a snake. A large number of people from far and near make it a point to take a bath under the falls due to this belief.

Tourist inquiries about Kakolat can be made from 9334610352.

Gunawan Jain Temple

One of the holiest temples of Jains, this temple is located one km away from the district HQ on the National Highway-31.

Handia Sun Temple

This temple, 12 km from Nawada town, is believed to have existed since the ‘Dwapar Age’. The legend has it that the water in the temple is sacred enough to cure leprosy patients.

Sitamarhi Cave

The Sitamarhi Cave is situated in a remote part of the district, about 30 km from the district HQ on the Gaya-Nawada main road, The cave is about 16 ft long and 11 ft wide. 


HOW TO REACH

Nawada is connected with rail link, but the neighbouring Gaya Junction is better connected with all major cities. Alternatively, one can reach Patna and hire a taxi to Nawada.

It is advisable to make Nawada a part of the package tour of Gaya, Nalanda and Rajgir because all these places are located in a radius of 100 km and are connected with good, motorable roads. 
  
By Air: 
  
Nearest Airport
 
Gaya and Patna 
  
By Rail: 
  
Nearest railhead
 
Nawada 
  
By Road: 
Connected by good roads with all Indian cities. 
  
Where to Stay: 
Private Hotels, Rest houses and Dharmshalas at Bihar Sharif/Nawada/Rajgir

Hotel Krishna Palace, STD Code: 06324, Phone: 9934747163, 216149
AC and nol’1-AC rooms available for Rs 250.R5 400 per day per room.
Hotel Rajshree International, STD Code: 06324, Phone: 215211, 9431227029
AC and non-AC rooms available for Rs 250-Rs 600 per day per room.

WHERE TO EAT Dozens of restaurants, motels and dhabas are around. The food at these places is not very costly.  

Local Transport: 
Auto rickshaws, Cycle-rickshaws, tangas. 

In Emergency, Contact, STD Code: 06324
District Magistrate: 212240, 212253, 9431413443
Superintendent of Police: 212263, 214389, 9430410983 

Medical Emergencies,Contact, STD Code: 06324
Civil surgeon: 212270, 9431227180
Sadar Hospital: 217579
Dr. Akhilesh k Mohan (Paediatrician): 9431251709
Dr. Prabhakar Singh (Physician): 9431831409
Dr. A.K.Arun (Physician): 9431257217
Dr. Madhu Sinha (Gynaecologist): 9771700421  

Tourist Season 
October to March. 

Clothing: 
Light cotton in summer and woolen in winter (specially during November to January).

Tourist places in Rohtas

Introduction

Sasaram, the headquarters town of Rohtas district, is steeped in history. It is an important railway station between Mughalsarai and Gaya. The station has a stoppage of all the important trains. The Grand Trunk Road also passes through the town.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Tomb of Sher Shah 
The magnificent mausoleum of Sher Shah in the town is one of the noblest specimens of Pathan architecture in India. It stands in the middle of a tank.

Rohtas Fort

One of the most interesting places in Bihar is the ancient hill fort situated on Kaimur hills, some 1490 ft above sea level. It is 70 km away from Sasaram.

Tomb of Hasan Khan Suri

In the centre of the historical town is the mausoleum of Hasan Khan Suri, the father of Emperor Sher Shah (1538 AD).The tomb consists of an octagonal hall surmounted by a large dome and is surrounded by an arcade which is crowned on each side by three small domes.

Tomb of Salim Shah

In the middle of a large tank, about half a mile to the north-west of Shershah’s tomb, is situated the tomb of his son, Emperor Salim Shah.

Tomb of Alawal Khan

Outside the town to the south is the tomb of Alawal Khan. Khan was the officer in charge of the building of Sher Shah’s mausoleum and took advantage of his position to appropriate the finest stone for his own tomb.

Mundeshwari Mandir

 Mundeshwari temple is one of the oldest Hindu monuments in Bihar. It is located on the summit of an isolated hill, seven miles north west of Bhabhua, the headquarters town of Kaimur district. Kaimur is adjacent to Rohtas. The nearest railway station is Bhabhua Road. The temple is in the shape of an octagon. Octagonal ground plan for a temple is rather rare.

HOW TO REACH 
  
By Air:
  
Nearest Airport
 
Jaiprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna (147kms) Gaya International Airport, Gaya (About 125 kms) 
  
By Rail: 
  
Nearest railhead 
Sasaram 
  
By Road: 
Connected by good roads with all Indian cities. 
  
Where to Stay: 
Hotel Sher Shah, a unit of Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation, Phone: 221267 AC rooms and restaurant facility available
Hotel Gopal Deluxe, Phone: 224366
Hotel Jaya, Phone: 221277
Hotel Vijay, Phone: 222323

Emergency, Contact

District Magistrate: 222226 (Off), 222224 (Res), 9431632414 (Mobile)
Superintendent of Police: 253204 (Off), 253205 (Res), 9431822978 (Mobile)

Medical Emergencies,Contact Anjani Arogya Institution: 221215
Civil Surgeon: 222039
Chauhan Fracture Nursing Home: 222101
Gayatri Nursing Home: 222488


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 Saharsa

Introduction

Saharsa, now a divisional headquarter situated nearly 272 km away from the state capital Patna, was a part of Bhagalpur district in the pre-independence days. Carved out as a separate district in April 1954, Saharsa has been a place of attraction for the tourists mainly because of its historical, religious and cultural heritage.

Saharsa Map

In 1905,a copper platewas discovered from Bangaon village which is said to have brought to light a new history of the Pala dynasty. Archaeological remains are scattered in different parts of the district.

Places of Interest

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Mahishi TaraTemple

Seventeen km from Saharsa,Mahishi village is known for an ancient temple of goddess Ugra Tara which is also believed to be a Shakti peetha.The legend has it that the right eye of Sati had fallen here.The temple has a three-ft-Iong statue of Tara,accompaniedby two other deities, Ekjataand Neel Saraswati,on the two sides.

The temple is associated with Tantrik cult where saints and other devotees from far and wide acrossthe country assemble during the ten-day-Iong Sharadiya Navaratra for penance. Although devotees from various parts of the country visit the place throughout the year,the main attraction of the temple is Dussehrain September-October during which more than one lakh people come here to worship the goddess.

Mandan Dham

Mahishi village takes pride in being the birthplace of legendary 8th century scholarand philosopher Pundit Mandan Mishra. He along with his wife Bharati made precious contributions to Indian philosophy. It is said Mandan was the senior contemporary of Adi Shankaracharya. During his ideological conquest for the propagation of sanatandharma, Adi 5 hankaracharya visited Mahishi for a philosophical debate with Mandan.

The birth place of Mandan is an upland, though barren where people from various states, particularly those in south India, come to salute the scholar whose books Brahmasiddhi, Meemansanukramanika and Vidhi Vivek,to namea few, are the gems of Indian philosophy.

Mandan’s better half, Bharati,was also a scholar par excellence and sheis believed to have once defeated Shankaracharya in debate.

Kandaha Sun Temple

 About 13 km west to the district HQ of Saharsa,Kandahais a sleepy hamlet known for antiquities.There’s a temple of sungod here in which nearly three-and-a-half-feet-Iong and and three-feet-wide statue of sungod is exquisitely shown riding seven horses with many other deities on both sides.

The peculiarity of the temple is an inscription on the marginal threshold of the sanctum sancto- rum which, already deciphered, establishes that the temple dates back to the 14th century. The emple, built by the king of the Oinwar dynasty, Narsingh Deo, a contemporary of Maithili poet Vidyapati, is the only sun temple n Bihar after the famous temple at Deo in Aurangabad district. There are two wells on the temple premises, namely Suryakoop and Chandrakoop, the sacred water of which is believed to have curative effects for leprosy and other skin diseases.

Bangaon

About nine km from Saharsa, Bangaon is an ancient village dominated by Maithil Brahmins. But the village is better known as the workplace of well-known 18th century saint poet laxmi Nath Gosai. He was a yogi,a saint and a poet who wrote and. sang religious songs which are still sung by the people of the area with great reverence. The goddess Durga temple at Bangaonis also a centre of attraction where a large number of people offer their prayers during the Navratrain September-October

Dewna Deeh

Close to Bangaon, Dewna Deeh is known for the lord Shiva temple situated here. There are many other deities in the temple.

Karu Sthan

Situated on the bank of Kosi river and hardly two km away from Mahishi Tara Sthan is a temple of folk-god Karu Khirhari who was a fighter, a yogi and a devotee of lord Shiva. He was also a great lover of domestic animals, particularly cows. Out of his reverence for lord Shiva, he had named his cows as Mahesri, Kusesri, Nakuchesri, Umesri etc. It is said Karu Baba had sacrificed his life to save a cow from a tiger.

People from various parts of Bihar and Nepal visit this temple and offer milk, vegetable and ganja to Karu Baba. On the day of Saptami during Navaratra, the temple is jampacked with tourists from far and wide. Such a huge quantity of milk is offered to Karu Baba that day that every one reaching there is fed ‘tasmai’, a special dish prepared by mixing rice in pure milk.

Biratpur Chandi Sthan

 In ascetic circles, Tara Temple at Mahishi, Katyayaini Temple near Dhamar Ghat in Khagaria district and Chandi Temple at Biratpur village under Sonbarsa block of Saharsa district form a holy triangle (trikonyantra) which is of special reverence in the Tantrik cult of worship. Goddess Chandi is another form or incarnation of goddess Durga. Nearly 35 km away from Saharsa, Biratpur is also associated with the Mahabharata legend of King Birat. There is a big mound near the temple which is believed to be the place where the Pandavas had lived for twelve years during their exile.

Matsyagandha Complex & Raktakali Temple

 A separate temple of 64 mahayoginis, believed to be rare in India and sacred in Hindu pantheon, is the special attraction of the site where also exists a beautiful temple of Raktakali, built on the pattern of monastery architecture. There’s also a huge pond which offers water sport facilities. The opening of a tourist hotel, Hotel Koshi Bihar, has added to the attraction of this spot. People come from different places for offering puja to the goddess Kali during Diwali festival. The state government celebrates the occasion as a state festival.

HOW TO REACH:

Saharsa has been connected with road and rail links. There are two daily trains from Patna, two weekly and bi-weekly trains from Delhi and a tri-weekly train from Kolkatato Saharsa. Peoplealso come to Saharsaby road asthe place has been linked with the national highway. 
  
By Air: 
  
Nearest Airport:
Gaya International Airport (About 308 kms) Jaiprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna (234kms). 
  
By Rail: 
  
Nearest railhead 
Dauram Madhepura 
  
By Road: 
Connected by good roads with all Indian cities. 
  
Where to Stay: 

Government Circuit House
PWD Inspection Bungalow
Kosi Project Inspection Bungalow
Hotel Kosi Bihar
(Owned by Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation) Hotel Kosi Niwas
Hotel Vijeya
Hotel Embassy
Hotel Satkar
AC and non-AC rooms are available with tariff being moderate.

WHERE TO EAT: Dozens of local hotels, restaurants and dhabas are there in the city.  
Government Circuit House 
PWD Inspection Bungalow
Koshi Project Inspection Bungalow
Hotel Kosi Bihar (Owned by Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation)
Hotel Kosi Niwas
Hotel Vijeya
Hotel Embassy
Hotel Satkar  

Local Transport:
Auto rickshaws, Cycle-rickshaws, tangas. 

In Emergency, Contact, STD Code: 06478
Divisional Commissioner: 224984 (Off), 223604 (Res), 9431243377
Deputy Inspector General of Police: 223488 (Off), 223688 (Res), 9431012708
District Magistrate: 224102 (Off), 223601 (Res), 9431243600
Superintendent of Police: 224556 (Off), 225554 (Res), 9431602642  

Medical Emergencies,Contact, STD Code:06478
Dr. A.K.Issar: 223525, 225291
Dr. Anil Kumar Pathak: 223673, 223693, 9431243002
Dr. A.K.Mishra: 224314
Dr. B.N.Mishra: 224696
Dr. A.K.Choudhary: 224620, 223363 

Tourist Season:
October to March. 

Clothing:
Light cotton in summer and woolen in winter (specially during November to January).

Tourist places in Samastipur

Introduction

Samastipur became a district on November 14, 1972. Earlier it was a subdivision of the Darbhanga district. The district is surrounded by Darbhanga in north, Patna in south, Begusarai in east and Muzaffarpur and Vaishali in west. It has four sub-divisional towns, Samastipur, Dalsingsarai, Patori and Rosera.

There is no forest area in the district. Most of the people are dependent on agriclulture. Cash crops like tobacco, cane, chilli, turmeric and different types of vegetables are grown here.

Samastipur district is known for reputed research institutes like Rajendra Agriculture University,Central Tobacco Research Institute and Central Cane Research Institute. Riverssuch as Burhi Gandak,Kareh,Kamla and Bagmatiflow through the district.

Places of Interest

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Mannipur Temple

A temple of goddess Durga, it is situated about 2 km from the district HQ town, Samastipur. Thousands of devotees throng this temple during Dussehra celebrations in September-October.

Khudneshwar Sthan

It is located at Morwa, about 15 km from Samastipur town.

Khatushyam Mandir

A temple of Lord Krishna, situated near Gola Road in Samastipur.The temple witnesses a huge rush of devotees during Janmashtami celebrations. 


HOW TO REACH

Samastipur is connected with National Highway – 28 by road. It is one of the divisional head quarters of East Central Railway. The distance between Samastipur and Patna is 180 km. 
  
By Air: 
  
Nearest Airport 
Jaiprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna (98 kms) Gaya International Airport, Gaya (About 195 kms) 
  
By Rail: 
  
Nearest railhead
 
Samastipur 
  
By Road: 
Connected by good roads with all Indian cities. 
  
Where to Stay: 
Hotel Sagar International, Rambabu Chowk, Samastipur. Phone: 225908
AC and non-AC rooms and suites available;tariff ranging from Rs 400 to Rs 1,500.
Hotel Swarg, Magardahighat Road, Samastipur. Phone: 225603
AC and non-AC rooms and deluxe rooms available;tariff ranging from Rs 350 to Rs 1,650.
There are many roadside dhabas offering good food at nominal rates.

Emergency, Contact

District Magistrate: 222300 (Off), 222301 (Res), 9431807123 (Mobile)
Superintendent of Police:222034 (Off), 222350 (Res), 9431822993 (Mobile) Town Police Station: 222533

Medical Emergencies, Contact Dr A K Aditya: 222868, 9431089697
DR A K Sahu: 222269, 9431245957
Dr G C Karn: 223252, 9431245151
Dr R RJha: 223711, 9431245345
Dr Sarojini Issar:222267
Dr ShabnamGupta:222862, 9431245345  

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 Saran

Introduction

Prior to bifurcation of Siwan and Gopalganj districts in 1992, Saran district with its HQ at Chhapra was one of the biggest and oldest districts of Bihar. The meaning of the word “Saran” corresponds to “asylum” or “refuge” in English. Chinese traveller Xuanzang also refers to Saran in his memoirs.
By 1666, the Dutch established their trade in saltpetre at Chhapra. Prior to 1905, Saran was part of Bengal, Orissa and Assam. It continued to be part of Orissa till 1936.

Places of Interest

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sonepur

Situated at the confluence of holy rivers Ganga and Gandak, the place is important because it was here that Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are said to have resolved the fight between Gaj (elephant) and Grah (crocodile). World famous Harihar Kshetra Mela, organised every year at this place, has been the centre of attraction for domestic and foreign visitors for years. The place is about 50 km east of Chhapra town, 10 km west of Hajipur town and about 30 km south of Patna. It is well connected by road and rail.

Aami

It is the place where Maharaja Daksha and King Surat practised asceticism. This place has been famous for the temple of goddess Durga. It is located 28 km east of Chhapra town and about 50 km west of Patna. The nearest railway station is Dighwara.

Chirand

It is situated 10 km east of Chhapra, the district HQ of the Saran district, and the same distance south off the Sonepur-Chhapra road. The discovery of the neolithic culture in 1970 in the Ganga valley was very significant as till then no neolithic signs had been found in course of archaeological excavations in northern India. In Chirand, we have for the first time a neolithic complex in low-lying plains with monsoon climate. ‘Bangali Baba Ka Mathia’ here is an added attraction.

Silhouri

Situated about 26 km north of Chhapra, this is the place where Indra and Yamraj took a test of King Shivi. The nearest railway station is Marhoura on Chhapra-Thawe rail route.

Revelganj

It is situated on Chhapra-Gazipur National Highway. There are several temples located between eight and thirteen km from Chhapra. Srinath Temple is one of the important places. On the eve of Kartik Purnima, a month-long fair, Godhna Semaria Mela’, is organised here every year.

Chhapra Town

Dharmanath temple, Peerbaba Ka Mazar, Ramkrishna Mission Ashram and Parwati Ashram are some of the important places of the town.

SONS OF THE SOIL

Among the celebrities and freedom fighters, India’s first president Dr Rajendra Prasad, Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan, Maulana Mazharul Haque, Bhikhari Thakur, Padmashree folk singer Vindhyavasini Devi all belong to Saran.

HOW TO REACH 
  
By Air: 
  
Nearest Airport 
Jaiprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna (77 kms) Gaya International Airport, Gaya (About 174 kms) 
  
By Rail:  
  
Nearest railhead:
Chhapra is well con-nected by road and rail. Chhapra Junction is one of the important stations of North Eastern Railway.

Buses ply regularly from Patna, Hajipur and Muzaffarpur to Chhapra. Roads are in good condition. It’s a two-hour drive from Patna. 
  
By Road: 
Connected by good roads with all Indian cities. 
  
Where to Stay: 
Hotel Ramdoot, Hotel Coffee House, Hotel Guru Mahima, Hotel Plaza and Hotel Rajasthan are some of the important hotels at Chhapra where rooms are available at moderate rates.

WHERE TO EAT: Mac-Ronalds, Zayaka, Dejee and Nakshtra are some of the important eateries of Chhapra town.  

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 Sitamarhi

Introduction

Formely a subdivision of Muzaffarpur district, Sitamarhi was inaugurated as a district on December 11, 1972 by the then Bihar chief minister Late Kedar Pandey. Situated on the Indo-Nepal border, its population is around 25 lakh.

Sitamarhi is said to be the birthplace of Hindu goddess Sita, also revered as Janaki. The legend has it that the King of Janakpur (in Nepal, 60 km from here), ploughed the land here to get rid of a devastating drought, and it was in the course of the ploughing that he stumbled upon an earthen pot out of which Sita emerged. Hence, the place came to be known as Sitamarhi.


Places of Interest

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

One can visit the famous Janaki, Shiva and Parvati tem ples at Haleshwar Sthan, seven km from Sitamarhi, the dis- trict HQ town. Devotees as well as tourists visit these temples and the latter go on to see the famous Janakpur Dham in Nepal. The two cattle fairs – one on Navami during Navaratra in September-October and the other on ‘Vivah Panchami’ in the winter are held annually and attract thousands of visitors.HOW TO REACH 
  
By Air: 
  
Nearest Airport

Janakpur Dham, 60 km north; Patna, 150 km south. 

By Rail: 
  
Nearest railhead 
Sitamarhi is situated 60 km north of Muzaffarpur and 70 km away from Darbhanga. It is well connected with road and is also on the railway map. 

By Road:
Connected by good roads with all Indian cities. 

Where to Stay:
Private Hotels, Rest houses and Dharmshalas at Sitamarhi.Hotel Sitayan, 
STD Code: 06226, Phone: 250605
Hotel Kishore, Phone: 06226-253288
Hotel Raj Kumar, Phone: 06226-250347 

Local Transport:
Auto rickshaws, Cycle-rickshaws, tangas. 

In Emergency, Contact, STD Code: 06226
District Magistrate: 250515 (Res), 250439 (Off)
Superintendent of Police: 250421 (Res), 250526 (Off)  

Medical Emergencies,Contact, STD Code: 06226
Dr. R.A.Sharma: 250499
Dr. Sita Ram Singh: 251330
Dr. Sanjay Singh: 254700
Dr. Renu Chatterjee: 254650  

Tourist Season:
October to March. 

Clothing:
Light cotton in summer and woolen in winter (specially during November to January).

Tourist places in Siwan

Introduction
Once a part of Saran district, Siwan became a separate district in the year 1972. This is the native district of India’s first president Dr. Rajendra Prasad.

The district is known for its ancient temples.A large number of devotess assemble at Mehdar temple or Anand Bagh Math and Sunder Bagh Math.People also throng Faridpur to have a glimpse of Ashiana,the house of Maulana Mazharul Haq,an eminent Bihari who stood for Hindu-Muslim unity.


Places of Interest

Zeeradei

Situated about 13 km from the district headquarters,zeeradei is known as the birthplace of India’s first president Dr. Rajendra Prasad,who was later conferred Bharat Ratna. Popularly called Rajendra babu by his friends and followers, Dr Prasad was a symbol of simplicity,truth and dedication. 
  
Ashiana

This place is known as the native residence of Maulana Mazharul Haq,one of the greatest freedom fighters of the country and a symbol of Hindu-Muslim unity 
  
Anand Bagh Math & Sunder Bagh Math

Situated at Bakhri village in Siswan block of Siwanthe two temples are in fact “samadhi sthals” of two renowned saints,Swami Jaggannath Das ji and his guru Bhagwan das ji.Both the temples are located near the Daha river and thousands of devotees visit these temples every year.On auspicious days,there’s a huge rush of people as devotees from far flung places like Uttar Pradesh,West Bengal and New Delhi besides saran,Gopalganj,Jehanabad and Ara in Bihar come here. 
  
Mahendra Nath Temple 
 
Situated in Mehdar village under Siswan block, about 32 km south from the district headquarters, Mahendra Nath temple of Lord Shiva attracts visitors,including foreigners, from far flung areas.  
  
Raghunathpur

Situated about 27 km south from the district head quarters,Raghunathpur is the place where Lord Rama is believed to have taken rest after killing demon Tarka near Buxar.Later, Lord Rama proceeded to Janakpur Dham after crossing river Saryu. 
  
Bhikhabandh

This place symbolises the affectionate relationship between a brother and his sister.There exists a temple of brother-sister at Bhikhabandh village under the Maharjganj block of the district.According to folklore,a brother and sister laid down their lives fighting Mughals in the 14th century 
  
Panchmukhi Shivalinga

There’s an old Shiva temple in Mahadeva locality of Siwan town which houses a “panchmukhi” or five faced Shivalinga. Locals insist the Shivlinga in the temple come out of the earth.One can also see the faces of Brahma,Vishnu and Mahesh on the Shivalinga. Hundreds of devotees throng this temple every day.On Mahashivratri,a fair is also held here.

Burhiya Mai Temple

Located on east-northern portion of Gandhi Maidan in Siwan town, this temple draws huge crowd of devotees, especiallyon Saturdays.Locals believe one’s wishes are fulfilled after worshipping the deity here. Offerings include new saris,fruits,flowers and coconuts. 
HOW TO REACH 
  
By Air: 
  
Nearest Airport 
Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna (146 kms) . 

By Rail: 
  
Nearest railhead

Siwan district HQ town is about 146 km in north from Patna, the state capital of Bihar. One can reach Siwan by road. A number of buses plybetween Patna and Siwan.One can also hiretaxi. 

By Road: 
A number of buses play between Patna and Siwan.One can also hire taxi. 

Where to Stay: 
Hotels, Rest houses and Dharmshalas in the Siwan Town.
Hotel Siwan International,station Road,Phone:-06154-223195
Prkash Hotel,Babuniya Mor,Phone:-06154-228182
Crown Hotel,Babuniya Mor,Phone:-06154-223449
Shanti Niwas,Babuniya Mor,Phone:-06154-242627 

Local Transport:
Auto rickshaws, Cycle-rickshaws, tangas. 

In Emergency,Contact:
District Magistrate: 06154-242099(Off) , 242098(Res)
Superintendent of Police: 242060(Off),242366(Res)  

Medical Emergencies,Contact
Dr. Rajendra Prasad Singh: 06154-242269
Dr. J. N. Prasad: 06154-242437
Dr. H. K. Shah: 06154-242040
Dr. J. N. Prasad: 06154-241035 

Tourist Season:
October to March. 

Clothing:
Light cotton in summer and woolen in winter (specially during November to January).


Tourist Spots in Darbhanga

Details of Tourist Places, Religious Places and its importance

Ahilya Asthan

It is famous historical temple, situated about 3 Kms. South of Kamtaul Railway Station in Jale Block. This place is known as Ahilya gram. There is a well known in the Ramayan about Ahilya. According to Ramayan when Lord Ram was his way to Janakpur his feet touched a stone and it turned into a woman who was non-else but Ahilya. Her husband Gautam Rishi cursed the Ahilya to fun into stone. The temple is dedicated to Ahalya, wife of Gautam Rishi. Large fairs are held every year on the occasion of Ramnavami in the Hindi month of Chaitra and Vivah Panchami in Agrahayan. There are various other temples and mosques in the village.

Brahmpur

The village is situated about 8 kms. away from Kamtaul and 19 kms. south east of Jogiara. The village is noted for the Gautam Kund and a temple of Gautam Rishi, which are located very close to it. According to the Puranic tradition Lord Brahma appeared before Gautam Rishi at this place after the chastity of his wife, Lord Indra and Chandrama had violated Ahalya. The village derives its name from this occurrence. In regard to the Gautam Kund, it is believed that God Brahma himself created the tank by piercing the earth with seven arrows, so that Gautam might not have to travel a long distance for bathing in the Ganga. Kamtaul. The village is a rail head in Jale block. The village has a Khadi Gamodyaog centre and a Khadi store. It is the rail head for visitors to Ahalyasthan and Gautamsthan.

Chhaprar

The village is situated in Bahadurpur block, at a distance of about 10 Kms. from District Headquarter. It has a temple of Lord Mahadeva on the bank of the Kamla River around which fairs are held on the occasion of Kartik and Maghi Purnima.
Dekulldham. The village falls in Biraul block and is noted for is large temple of Lord Shiva. Devotees congregate here every Sunday. A large annual fair is held on the occasion of Shivaratri.

Kusheshwar-asthan

It is an important religious place, situated about 16 Kms. east of Singhia and 22 Kms. northeast of Hasanpur Road railway station on the Samastipur, Khagaria Branch line of North Eastern Railway. It is noted for the temple of Lord Shiva known as Kusheshwarasthan. Pligrims visit this place all the year round for worship. The origin of this temple is traced to the epic period.

The water logged fourteen villages of Kuseshwarasthan block covering an area of 7019 acres and 75 decimals, due to their greater ecological, faunal, floral, geomorphological and natural importance has already been declared as Kuseshwarasthan Bird Sanctuary under Wild Life Protection Act 1972 (as amended upto 1991). The following table shows the names and status of some important migratory birds seen in Kusheshwarasthan Bird Santuary and their native countries.

Names and Status of Important Migratory Birds seen in
Kusheshwarasthan Bird Sanctuary
Serial Number Species Status
1. Dalmatian pelican (Pelicanus erisups) Endangered, International Council of Bird Preservation (ICBP), Bird Red Data Book estimates only 665-1000 pairs in the world.
2. Indian darter (Anlinga rufa) Species in fered to decreasing all over the country.
3. Bar-headed goose A threatened species due to hunting, egg collecting, habitat loss.
4. White winged wood duck (Cairiva scutulata) Included in ICBP Red Data Book. Threatened by hunting and habitat loss
5. Marbled teal (Marmaronetta anqustirostris) Listed in Red Data Book V
6. Baers Pochad (Aythya baeri) Listed in Red Data Book V. Threatened by hunting and habitat loss . Due to wellenddrainage for agriculture.
7. Siberian Crane (Grus leuogranus) Western population of this species is on the verge of extinction. About 2000 birds exist in eastern population.
8. Indian Skimmer (Rynchops albicollis) Comes to wetland plains of India during winter from Bangladesh.
9. Oriental qoosander (Merqus qoosander) Endangered due to hunting and habitat loss.

Native Countries of Migratory Birds :Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, Afghanistan, China, Pakistan, Mongolia & Siberia and others.

KUSHESHWARASTHAN BIRD SANCTUARY AREA

Introduction

Wet land areas of Darbhanga district in general andKusheshwarasthan block (Biraul Sub-division) in particular is the WINTER CAPITAL of approx 15 rare and endangered species of MIGRATORY BIRDS. The WINGED GUESTS coming from over eight countries swarm the vast water bodies spread in approx 8100 hects. during winter between November and March.

Location: Longitude: 85 degree 40′ -86 degree 25′ East, Latitude: 25 degree 53′ – 26 degree 27′ North

Height from sea level: 49 meters.

Approx 45 Kms East of Darbhanga Town.

Santuary Area: 6700 hects Chour Area, 1400 hects of Low land area. No. of Ponds/Chours – 202 govt. 412 Private.

Name of Birds

Local Name:- Lalshar, Dighouch, Mail, Nakta, Gairi*, Gagan*, Silli, Adhani, Harial, Chaha, Karan, Ratwa, Gaiber (White and Black)

Biological Names:- Dalmation pelican, Anlinga rufa (Indian darter) Barheadedgoose, Cariva Scutulata, (White wing wood duck), Marmaroneta (Marbled teal), Baers Pochad, Sibrian Crain, Indian Skimmer, Oriental Goosanderek. (* Rarely Seen)

Sanctuary Area in Biraul Sub-Division (In Hect.)

Blocks Name Area Cultivable Area High Land Area Mid Land Area Low Land Area Chour Area
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Biraul 20994 16600 1000 3000 2500 2750
Ghanshyampur 25649.08 19993 2000 2500 3000 3750
Kusheshwarasthan 23792.01 16000 600 600 1400 6700

Mahinam-Mahadeo-sthan

It is temple of Lord Shiva situated at a distance of about 5 Kms. from the Darbhanga-Biraul pucca road. Large annual fairs are held here on the occasion of Kartik and Maghi Purnima.

Makranda

Situated about 5 Kms. south of Manigachhi railway station, the village is known for its old temple called Baneshwaristhan.

Newri

The village likes about 13 Kms. west of the block head quarters at Biraul and contains the remains of an ancient fortress associated with Raja Lorick.

Nawadah Durga-sthan

It is famous temple of Goddess Durga Located on the Majkora Nawadah Road. The place is visited by hundreds of devotee’s everyday. The Dussehra festival is celebrated here with great enthusiasm.

Raghopur

The village is situated about 5 Kms. south of Sakri railway station. It is noted for its earthen mound, known as Sheosingh-garh, which is believed to cover the ruins of a building, built by Raja Shiva Singh.

Shyama Temple Shyama Temple is just one KM west of Darbhanga Railway Station. It is situated in the picturesque and peerless Lalit Narayan Mithila University. In fact it is private graveyard of Darbhanga Raj Royal family and temples have been build upon the graveyard of the ancestors of the Royal family. Shyama Temple is one of them. It was built in 1933. A huge statue of Goddess Kali is enshrined in this temple. This temple is famous not only for its grand our beauty and lively men but also for the faith that people here get there in desire fulfilled if they worship with holy heart.

Sati Asthan

Sati Asthan is situated in the famous graveyard of Subhankarpur, which is about one km west of Darbhanga Maharaji bridge. Maharaj Rameshwar Singh who was also a great Tantrik used to visit here daily in mid night for his Tantra Sidhi. Late Pandit Harinandan Mishra father of Late Lalit Narayan Mishra, Ex, Railway Minister, Government of India, also held in this premises. Now a days people use to visit this place on every Monday and Friday.

Manokamna Temple

Manokamana Temple is situated in the University Campus just beside Nargauna Palace. This temple has constructed with the Marvel. In fact it is a Hanuman temple where a little but most beautiful statue of Hanuman is build of marvel. A lot of crowd came to visit this place every day.

Malechchhed Mardani Temple

Malechchhed Mardini temple is one km south west of Darbhanga Railway station. It is temple of the Godden who destroy the faints. This temple is of utmost importance for Shakti people.

Kankali Temple

Kankali temple is two km north west of Darbhanga Railway station in the premises of Qila of Darbhanga Mahraj. This temple is of utmost importance for Shakti people.

Kaitholic Church It was old type of Baungla Church established in 1891 where training is to given to Christen Pandit.. It is just situated one km north form the Darbhanga Railway Station. This building was demolished in the earthquake of 1897 and later on it was constructed. The pray was started in this building from 25 December 1991. The name of this church is Holy rosary Church. A lot of crowds were assembled on every Friday. Here Christmas festival is organized between Dec 25-31 and Anand Mela is organized on October 7 on each and every year. In the front of Church a most attractive symbol of Isamashi is also situated.

Bhikha Salami Majar
It is situated at one km southeast from Darbhanga Railway station on the bank of Gangasagar pond. A fair is to be organized between 12th and 16th day during the Ramzan.

Masjid at Darbhanga Tower

It is situated at two km west from the Darbhanga Railway Station and just neat at Darbhanga Tower. It is the most attractive and religious place for the Islam religion. A crowd people are assembled on every Friday for pray their Namaj.

The Mazar of Makhdoom Baba
It is situated at two km northwest from Darbhanga Railway Station and just between the both universities. It is the very popular secularism place. Here daily people from Islam religion as well as Hindu religion assemble for offering their prayers.

Maharaja Laxmiswar Singh Museum

Maharaja Laxmiswar Singh Museum was established on 16th September 1977. It is situated just west south of Darbhanga Railway Station. This Museum can be visited every day except Monday. Its opening and closing time is 10.00 AM and r.30 PM respectively. There is no entry fee.

Brief History

Royal family of Darbhanga is well known for its love and affection with art and culture. Prince Subheshwar Singh gifted the invaluable and immemorial items and Durlabh Kalakritiya in order to establish this museum. The then District Magistrate of Darbhanga Shree Ramashankar Tiwari had also played an important role in the establishment of this museum. This unique museum is situated on the eastern bank of Mansarover Lake.

Salient features

There is rare collection of a number of objects and weapons made of Gold, Silver, Tusker teeth all collection has been scientifically organized and placed into eight different chambers.

Hall Number 1: This hall is known as Raj Singhasan Kash. Royal throne of Maharaj Rameshwar singh jee has been placd in this Hall. This throne is symbol of Power, wealth and dignity of the royal family. It is made of gold, silver and precious stones. Besides royal throne, silver made Palang(BED), Nalki and a number of other such items has also been placed in this hall which are pleasant memory of yester years of royal family. Royal throne and Silver Bed are unique examples of Sculptural excellence.

On the basis of design and decoration the Royal throne can be divided into five parts.

  • It is made of wood, which is square in shape. The beauty of this part is pasting of flowers leaves and its finder brines made of ivory. The shape and size of this flower and leaves are so accurate that it looks like natural.
  • Just above it there is a six-inch plate of silver all round the throne elephants of small size are shown on it. Although it is small in size but very natural in its look.
  • Just above silver plate there are elephants an each corner of the throne at the distance of two feets. There are hole in the back of these elephants. Most probably silver rod would have been used to decorate the throne as per desire.
  • All round he throne there are square gold and silver plates a which various types of animals has been shown in their different natural possess. Group of elephants playing in water, roaring lions, Panther climbing on the tree. Fighting bull and running deer are some of them.
  • Precious stones were presented at every angles of the throne. The monogram of royal family FISH is in the middle of the throne.

Hall Number 2: Hall of Metallic artifacts: A number of attractive artifacts have shown in this hall and among these unique globe made of copper and circular shield are can be of attraction. In these two artifacts important events of Ramayana, Mahabharata and Krishna-Leela has been reflected.

Hall Number 3: Hall of stone idols and artifacts:

Statue made of marble and other stone made artifacts have been shown in his hall. A circular table made of a single piece of marble is treat to watch. A number of women have been inscribed one it in Greek – style. The clothes hair and physique of there women reflects the clear impact of greekan style. Just like greekan style the clothes are transparent and its fold are such that it seems it has been blown up by air. The curly hair looks very natural.

Hall Number 4 & 5: Ivory Hall. There is a unique collection of the artifacts made of ivory. Mat, Net, flowers, leaves and a lot of other things, made of ivory, are just superb in its presentation. A spulse made of ivory is so lively that visitors get mazes after seeing it. Beside this Ivory mad lions and sofa-set also attract the visitors very much.

Hall Number 6: Hall of weapons. Weapons of the various kings have been shown in this hall.

Hall Number 7 & 8: Hall of wooden artifacts. These two halls painting wooden artifacts have been shown in so natural that it works like metal.

Chandradhari Museum, Darbhanga

This museum was established on 7 December 1957 on the north bank of Mansarowar Lake. Late Chandradhari Singh of Ranti Dyordhi (Madhubani) donated all the artifact and other rare objects. It was shifted in double story building in 1974. There is no entry fee for visiting the Museum. It remains open for public on everyday except Monday. On the basis of arrangement and materials of the Museum it can be devided into eleven type of Halls.

Aims of the Museum

To collect, to preserve and to display the artifacts of historical, archaeological and cultural importance of the region in the public interest as well as to educate the students through the exhibited materials.

Galleries

On the basis of arrangement and materials of the Museum, it is divided into eleven gallery. Short description of same very important gallery are below:-

Glass Gallery In this gallery beautiful objects of Baljium cutting glass are displayed.

Textile Gallery Traditional dress of Mithila as well as dress of Royal family have been shown in this Gallery.

Miniature Painting Gallery

In this gallery rare miniature paintings of different styple and school are displayed. Among these the paintings of Krishna leela with Gopies, based on Geet Govind of Jaidev are peerless. Besides this the miniature paintings of Mughal Kings and their queens in Mughal style are also of much importance.

Modern Paintings

Water colour paintings of modern style based on Ramayan and Mahabharta theme such as “Raja Janak Darbar” and “Mahabharta War” can be seen here.

Stone Sculpture Gallery

Sculptures in black Basalt stone of Hindu and Buddha religion have been shown in this gallery. Most of the sculpture belongs to the 8th & 9th century A.D.

Wood Gallery

Various types of wood objects having floweral design and inlay work are displayed in this gallery.

Mother of Pearls Gallery

In this gallery several types of beautiful exhibit made art of mother of pearls can be seen. A replica of Taj Mahal, made of mother of perals on a single piece of tuch stone is an unique one.

Natural History Gallery

Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Bear and different types of horns of deer have been displayed in this gallery.

Ivory Gallery

Various types of beautiful icons and objects of ivory are displayed in this gallery.

Brass Gallery

Statues in brass, brought from Rajnagar of Madhubani District have been shown in this gallery. These statues are of Nepalese and Tibetan style.

Special Gallery

Eak mukhi Rudraksha Garlands of semi preceious stones, Mico paintings, Ancient and Modern Coins Flowers pots of Zade stone, Ivory etc are beautifully arranged and displayed.

Strong Room

In this room ring of preceious stones, Gold coins, Pancha Janya Sankh, Dakshina Vartaya sonkh, Shree chakra etc are will preserved.

Library

This museum has its own small library, having different types of historical and cultural books along with same manuscripts.

Sikki Nirmit Tajmahal in Chnadradhari Museum, Darbhanga

Bansbriksha of Darbhanga Maharaj

Darbhanga town Darbhanga town attained the status of a city (population 1 lakh and above) in 1961. Darbhanga is the seat of the Maharaja of Darbhanga. Laheriasarai that is the seat of district and divisional administration is a part of the Darbhanga town. The Raj area is a well developed and beautifully laid-out complex of palaces, temples, offices, parks, gardens and ponds. There are a number of palaces built by the successive Maharajas, important among them being Nargauna Palace, Anandbagh Bhawan and Bela Palace. A number of buildings are in the use of Sanskrit University and L.N.Mithila University. The old Raj Library has been taken over by the Mithila University. The Maharajas of Darbhanga have traditionally been very great patrons of art and literature and through their magnificence have always provided encouragement to the scholars of Maithili and Sanskrit. Mahesh Thakur who founded the Raj was a renowned scholar of Sanskrit. Emperor Akbar who was very much impressed by Raghunandan Jha, a scholar and disciple of Mahesh Thakur, conferred the estate upon him.

The town is noted for its trade in fish, mango and makhana. Among its educational institution are Chandradhari Mithila College, the Medical College, the Women’s College, The Engineering School and various other institutions.





Gaya – A Main Tourist Attraction of Bihar

Summary

District – Gaya
Commissionery – Magadh
Headquarter – Gaya
Sub-Division – Gaya Sadar, Sherghati, Tekari
Population – 26, 64,803 (27 Lacs)
Area – 4,941 Sq. Km
Sea Level – 113 Meter
Temperature –
Summer: 46°C – 18°C
Winter: 20°C– 4°C
Best Season – November – February
Road Route – 112 Km from Patna
Rail Route – Main Railway Station – Patna, Gaya
Nearest Railway Station – Gaya (16 Km),
(458 km from Kolkata; 220 km from Varanasi; 589 km from Puri)
Air Route – Main Airport – Patna
Nearest Airport – Gaya 

Main Spots of Tourist Interest 

  •     Brahamyoni Mountain
  •     Dungeshwari Mountain
  •     Rock-cut-Sculpture of Kauodol Hills
  •     Ruins of Buddhist Monastery Hills Base & Buddhist Temple
  •     Ruins of Buddhist Monastery, Top of Kauodol Hills
  •     Gaya Museum

Histrocial Importance

Situated on the bank of river Falgu, Gaya is one of the ancient city in India. In Gaya only Bramhayoni and Dungeshwari Hills are related to Buddhist Circuit, where Lord Buddha came before his enlightenment, in search of Nirvana.
Today Gaya is mainly known as for Hindu circuit. Gaya is recognised as a holy city from ancient period. According to legend, Lord Vishnu endowed a celestial being named Gaya with the powers to absolve from sin all those who approached him. The devine Gaya was also empowered to raise the devout to the heavens so that they might join their ancestors. On the bank of river falgu very large number of pilgrims offer Pindan (Funeral cakes) at the ghats and perform a lengthy circuit of holy places around Gaya, to free their ancestors from bondage to the earth.

Places of Tourist Interests

Brahmayoni Mountain

Location: Brahmayoni hill is situated 1 km south of Vishnupada temple and its description is found in BuddhistBrahmayoni Mountain literature. To reach Brahmayoni hill one had to ascend 424 steps.

Importance: In Brahmyoni Mounain range there are 3 mountain peaks. Middle mountain peak in related to Buddhist Circuit & Right side Brahmayoni Mountainmountain peak is related to Hindu circuit.
Before enlightenment Gautam Buddha spent few days on this mountain, from this place Buddha reached the Sujata Place (Now in Bakraur, Bodhgaya) & from this place went to Dungeshwari Hills & then Bodhgaya to sit under Bodhi tree.
Now on this holy place we can see Ashoka stupa, a huge statue of Lord Buddha and Holy footprints on the hill. It is believed that ‘Ashoka the Great’ had got constructed a stupa here in the memory of Lord Buddha.
There are two interconnected narrow caves on the hill —Brahmayoni and Matriyoni. There is a belief that if one passes through the caves he would become free from the cycle of life and death.
Bihar Government has marked Brahmayoni hill as a ‘protected monument’. On the middle of peak there is an Ashokastupa and on its right temple of Brahma temple have been set up.

Dungeshwari Mountain

Location: Near to Bakraur (Sujata Place) on the other bank of falgu river, 32 km from Gaya, on the Gaya – Jamuawa – Surhari More- road route.

Importance: Lord Buddha came here from Sujata Place. On this place ‘devine powers’ suggested him to go to Bodhgaya for enlightenment. This mountain was known as ancient ‘Pragbodhi mountain’.
On the top of the mountain there are 7 ruins of Ashoka stupa. In the middle of the mountain, there is a Buddhist Temple & Hindu Temple, attract large no. of tourist on this holy place. 

Rock-Cut-Sculptures of Kauvadol Hills

Location: Kauvadol Hills in 32 km far from Gaya District Headquarter, 20 km from Bela & 6 km from south-westRock-Cut-Sculptures of Kauvadol Hills Barabar caves (Jehanabad). Kauva Dol Hills is situated about a mile south-west of Barabar Hills, situated north-east of Belaganj block.

Importance: From the mound here remains of an ancient temple have been found. From the base of Kauadol mountain a large number of stone idols of Hindu god and goddess have been found. A ‘Gaumukhi Shivalinga’, a ‘Bansha bull’ considered to be carrier of Lord Shiva, has been found from the base of the mountain near tomb of Pir. It is believed that Kauadol (Kurisarai) was a town of Northern Gupta period (6-7th century BC) and it was named as Shramanpur. Chinese traveller Rock-Cut-Sculptures of Kauvadol HillsHieun-Tsang had mentioned ‘Shilbhadra Mahavihar’ which is believed to be at this place only. ASI-Branch-3, Patna team has expressed hope that here remains of Northern Gupta period to mid-term might be found.
On the rocks of the northern and eastern face of Kauva Dol Hill, numberous figures representing mostly Hindu deities like Hara-Gauri, Mahishasuramarddini Durga, Ganesa etc. A few figures of the seated Buddha are also noticed viz of Vajrasattva, Prajnaparamita and a seated Buddha. The sculptures may be assigned to a period between 800 to 1200 A.D. At Barabar Hills the passage leading to the Holy ‘Siddheshwarnath temple’ are ancient rock cut sculptures or Shiva Linga, Shiva Parvati, Ganesha etc. The image of the goddess Durga are how ever largest in number at Kauva Dol Hills. the four armed Durga slaying the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Other Brahmanical Figures are also noticed.

Ruins of Buddhist Monastery Hills Base & Buddhist Temple
Location: Kauvadol Hills in 30 km far from Gaya District Headquarter, 20 km from Bela & 6 km from south-west Barabar caves (Jehanabad). Kauodol is situated north-east of Belaganj block. Ruins of Buddhist Monastery is situated in the base of Kauva Dol Hills which is situated about a mile south-west of Barabar Hills.

Importance: It is considered important for its archaeological finds. In the 4th century BC it was a ‘training centre’ for young Buddhist monks, who were called ‘Shamner’. During that period this was training centre for not only Magadh area but for whole central area. In the 4th century BC Sramanpur was a township.
At the base of the Kauadol hill archaeological remains can still be found. According to historian Wenglar, the place was sanctum sanctorum of the temple — where one mandap, a semi-mandap and a maha-mandap existed. Till 1902 here 13 mandap existed and now only 9-10 mandap could be seen. Kauva Dol has been identified as the site of the ancient ‘monastery of Silbhadra’. This place was visited by Hiuen-Tsang in the 7th century. The Bodhisattva touched the earth when Mara challenged him. Exhorting the Earth goddess to appear to witness his enlightenment. Following excavation by the ASI and Bihar ASI, an eight-feet statue of Lord Buddha could be found in ‘Bhoomisparsh’ (ground-touching) posture.


Buddhist Temple – Near Buddhist Monastery, Kauvadol
Location: Kauvadol Hills in 32 km far from Gaya District Headquarter, 20 km from Bela & 6 km from south-westBuddhist Temple,Kauvadol Barabar caves (Jehanabad). Kauodol is situated north-east of Belaganj block and the base of Kauadol hill. Buddha Temple is situated in the base of Kauva Dol Hills which is situated about a mile south-west of Barabar Hills

Importance: The colossal image of Lord Buddha in Bhumi-sparsamudra is of Silbhadra monastery. Silbhadra was a learned Buddhist of the royal family of Samatata.
This is one of the largest satues of Buddha extant and is in fair preservation except that a portion of the halo has been broken the figure is about 8 feet high with a breadth of 4 feet across the shoulders and 6 feet across the knees.

Ruins of Buddist Monestery, Top of Kauvadol Hills
Location: Kauvadol Hills in 32 km far from Gaya District Headquarter, 20 km from Bela & 6 km from south-westTop of Kauvadol Hills Barabar caves (Jehanabad). Kauodol is situated north-east of Belaganj block. Ruins of Buddhist Monastery is situated on top of Kauva Dol Hills which is situated about a mile south-west of Barabar Hills
Importance: Beside one of the mountain hills of Kauvadol, on the top, there is ruins of Buddhist monastery. Several stones pillars, parts of doorway are seen hither & thither on the top of hill & near to top. 


Gaya Museum
Location: Situated in the heart of the town of Gandhi Maidan, Gaya.
Importance: The museum has been declared as Gaya Museum-cum-Magadh Cultural Centre with a view to collect, display and make available all the relevant information regarding living cultural heritage of the region under one roof.
The museum preserves about 2000 antiquities of varied nature. The rich collection of stone sculptures especially of Pala period is rare and outstanding. Besides, the Museum also possesses a good collection of coins of different periods (punch marked to medieval

Know about Patna Museum – Bihar

Patna Museum is the state museum of the Indian state of Bihar. Built in 1917 during the British Raj to house the historical artefacts found in the vicinity of Patna,it is in the style of Mughal and Rajput architecture and is known locally as the Jadu Ghar.
Patna Museum

Location of Patna
in Bihar, India

Open: 10.30 am- 4.30 pm
Days: Tues- Sun 

Items on display in the multipurpose museum include archaeological objects, coins, art objects, paintings, instruments, textiles, paintings, thankas, bronze images, and sculptures and terra cotta images by Hindu and Buddhist artists.[1] It has a rare collection of British-period paintings depicting day-to-day life, as well as a fine collection related to the first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad.

The fossil of a tree said to be more than 200 million years old is on display, as is a casket — unearthed in 1958 by archaeologist A. S. Altekar at the Relic Stupa of Vaishali — said to contain the sacred ashes (relics) of Gautama Buddha. The world-famous Didarganj Yakshi statue, discovered on a Ganges riverbank in 1917, is the museum’s most prized collection.

Beginning November 2009, a project was started to build a replacement museum in Patna to enable the display of larger collections of up to 20,000 objects.

This excellent museum contains metal and stone sculptures dating to the Mauryan and Gupta periods, terracotta figures and archaeological finds from sites in Bihar such as Nalanda. It is a destination that is worth your luxury or cheap flights to India because of its rich history and cultural treasures. The Patna Museum also houses the world’s longest fossilized tree -16m long and 200 million years old. There is a fine collection of Chinese paintings and thangkas.

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.

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.

The museum also displays sculptures from the Kushana period, which include the famous trio from Devangarh in the Nawada district. Three deities Ekanamsa, Balarama and Vasudeva have been separately depicted here which is unconventional and not found anywhere else. Other than these, the museum also has three images of Avalokitesvra, Maitreya and Buddha in bhumisparsh posture. These images were excavated from Vishnupur of Gaya districts. There are some door frames with the figures of Ganges and Yamuna depicted on the sides of them.


Patna Museum
Gautam Buddha
Gautam Buddha