Bihar Sharif, located in Nalanda district of Bihar, is a historic and spiritual city known for its Sufi heritage and proximity to the ancient Nalanda University ruins. If you have only one day, you can still cover the major highlights with proper planning and an early start.
Here is a complete and structured guide for a 1 Day Travel Itinerary for Visiting Bihar Sharif, along with a detailed table of attractions ranked by popularity, average time spent, and entry fees.
Morning – Spiritual and Historical Landmarks
- Start your day at Badi Dargah, the shrine of Makhdoom Sharfuddin Ahmed Yahya Maneri. It is the most important religious site in the city and attracts devotees from across the state. Spend around 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the shrine and its surroundings.
- Next, visit Hiranya Parvat (Badi Pahari). This small hill offers scenic views of the town and houses historical structures including the Mausoleum of Syed Ibrahim Mallick Baya. Allocate about 1 to 1.5 hours here.
Midday – Nalanda Excursion
- Drive to Nalanda University Ruins, located about 10–15 km from Bihar Sharif. This UNESCO-recognized archaeological site was one of the world’s earliest residential universities. Spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the monasteries, temples, and ancient structures.
- After that, visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum, which displays sculptures, inscriptions, and artifacts found during excavation. Plan about 1 hour.
Evening – Local Exploration
- Return to Bihar Sharif and explore the Bihar Sharif Fort Area and nearby markets. Walk around the Clock Tower area and experience local life. If time permits, visit Balwapar Dam for a relaxed evening.
Table – Tourist Places in Bihar Sharif
| Place / Attraction | Popularity Level | Average Time Spent | Approximate Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nalanda University Ruins | Very High | 2 – 4 hours | Government Ticket |
| Badi Dargah | Very High | 1 – 1.5 hours | Free / Donation |
| Nalanda Archaeological Museum | High | 1 – 2 hours | Government Ticket |
| Hiranya Parvat (Badi Pahari) | High | 1 – 1.5 hours | Free |
| Bihar Sharif Fort Area | High | 1 – 2 hours | Free |
| Mausoleum of Syed Ibrahim Mallick Baya | Medium | 1 hour | Free |
| Balwapar Dam | Medium | 1 – 2 hours | Free |
| Swarna Bhandar | Medium | 1 – 2 hours | Free |
| Gavar Ghat Waterfall | Medium | 1 – 2 hours | Free |
| Clock Tower & Local Market | Medium | 30 – 45 minutes | Free |
| St Luke’s Church | Low | 30 – 45 minutes | Free |
| Sacred Heart Catholic Church | Low | 30 – 45 minutes | Free |
Note: Entry fees at archaeological sites are nominal and may vary for Indian and foreign visitors.
Best Time to Visit
- October to March is ideal due to pleasant weather conditions.
Quick Travel Tips
- Start early to cover Nalanda comfortably. Use local auto-rickshaws or taxis for easy movement between sites. Wear comfortable footwear as several locations require walking.
I am a travel writer and regional storyteller dedicated to documenting the culture, heritage, daily life, and travel experiences of Bihar. Through Mera Apna Bihar, I share local insights, real travel stories, and on-ground experiences that highlight the true spirit of Bihar for readers, travelers, and culture enthusiasts.
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