If Buddhism and mind-boggling history of India intrigues you, then Bihar is the place for you. Discover this home of sublime temples and monasteries that served as stepping stones in the evolution of young religion, Buddhism. The followers frequently visit here to embark on pilgrimage Buddhist circuit. The magic upholds as you get to see the world’s oldest residential university, Nalanda. It just isn’t this; the mystical state will keep you amazed with more such historic wonders from its treasure.
Located on the bank of Ganges River, Patna is the capital and largest city of Bihar. Its ancient name was Pataliputra and served as the capital of Magadha. Pathar ki Masjid, built by son of Jahangir is a prominent landmark of the city. The most visited place is Patna Museum that will take you back in time with antiques like the First World War cannon and Buddhist sculptures. Golghar, the massive granary of British-era is a noteworthy imperial gem. Gandhi Setu, Padri Ki Haveli, Modern Planetarium and Kumhrar and Buddha Smriti Park are other popular places.
Calm your mind and soul by visiting Bodhgaya, the famous pilgrimage site of Hindus and Buddhists. The city has witnessed the remarkable journey of Buddhism. Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a world-famous temple housing a museum. Its main attraction is Bodhi tree, a banyan tree, under which Buddha attained enlightenment. The cluster of places like Chankramana, Ratnagarh, Buddhist Monastery of Bhutan, Sujata village, Chinese Temple & Monastery and Dungeshwari Hill will offer you an insight into Buddhism.
Rajgir, the birthplace of 20th Jain Tirthankar is a repository of temples and monasteries. It is closely associated with Jainism and Buddhism as Lord Mahavira and Lord Buddha taught their beliefs here. Brahmakunds, hot water springs of medicinal significance are an attraction in this hill town. Ajatshatru Fort built by the king of Magadha is a historical gem from 6th century. There are many more such interesting places like Jarashanda ka Akhara, Pandu Pokhar, Shanti Stupa, Venu Vana, Bimbisar Jail, Jain Temples and Ghorakatora Lake.
Vaishali is noted and revered for being the birthplace of Lord Mahavira. The tiny village is dotted with various historic sites that remind of its various ruling dynasties. One of such is Bawan Pokhar Temple, dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, it boasts black basalt images of the Gupta and Pala period. Ashokan Pillar is another attraction, known for being the place where Buddha gave his last sermon. Vaishali Museum, Abhishek Pushkarni, Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Kundalpur, Raja Vishal ka Garh, Kesaria and Chaumukhi Mahadev Temple are some other must-visits.
It is recognized as the one of the world’s oldest seat of learning. Founded in the 5th century, Nalanda University is now mostly left in ruins. Nalanda Archaeological Museum is the most notable place that showcases an impressive collection of Buddhist and Hindu bronzes. Pawapuri is a sacred place where Lord Mahavira breathed his last. Other interesting places are Nalanda University Ruins Archaeological Complex, Naval Nalanda Mahavira, Hieum Tsang Memorial Hall, Bari Dargah and Choti Dargah.
You can many delectable dishes in the streets but Litti Chokha rules the chart. Other local delicacies you should not miss are Sattu, Khajuria, Malpua, Khaja, Naivedyam, Kadhi Badi and Chana Ghugni.
The centre of art and culture, it is a perfect place for shopping enthusiasts. The most famous takeaways are Mithila and Madhubani paintings which exclusively originated in Bihar. The handicrafts made by local craftsmen like Kashida work on Handloom Silk fabrics, silk sarees and stoles, zari work, Sujani or Sujini embroidery and terracotta artifacts are also popular.
By Air – Gaya International airport is the main airport that handles domestic and international flights.
By Rail – Bihar is supported by a good network of Indian railways that connect it to all major cities.
By Road – The state is accessible from all parts of the country by a well-maintained network of roads and National highways.
MarcoFrance1965
UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE !
I just came back from a 12 days Rajasthan tour. It was just myself and my 14 year olde daughter. I found Caper surfing the web and had non suggestion from friends and had never read comments or reviews about it. Totally "blind-choice". I was very lucky. The organization was really excellent. The agent that followed us, Mr. Praveen Juyal did a great job. I decided our itinerary and he punctually gave me suggestions on the best management of my choices. The hotel choice was fine and confirmed expectations. We had tour guides in every site seeing location and they were all extremely professional, very punctual and really kind and polite.
But I must say that what made the trip even better was our driver; Mr. Deshraj.
One of those persons that you really wish you could meet once in your life. Not only an excellent driver but always helpful, respectful and friendly. He explained us many things about Indian life along the journey and sometimes stopped for short breaks in beautiful places on the road that were not even mentioned in the guide books. My only regret is that at the end of the trip I didn't have much money left and I left a tip probably not adeguate for the kind of service but I will definitely send him try to sort this maybe in a next trip. Thank you very much Caper and Deshraj.
Dreamer802943
A Memorable Trip
We recently concluded a 12 day driving tour of New Delhi, Agra and Rajasthan with Caper Travel. It was most enjoyable !! The logistics arrangements were excellent - from tour planning , hotel selection , vehicle condition to driver. Mr Alok handled the planning, and Mr Vikram was our Tempo driver throughout the journey. Mr Vikram was very helpful , accommodating and patient throughout the tour, despite long hours of driving on the roads ( not to mention India traffic}. We would not hesitate to recommend Caper to our fellow travellers who are thinking of visiting India. Thank You Caper !
goochie33, London, United Kingdom
Golden triangle goa and mumbia
Just come back from an amazing 2 week trip to India. First we done the golden triangle which we chose to do the train trip from Delhi to Agra a must you have to do if not just for the experience. All the cities were wonderful but be prepared to see lots of temple one seems to run into another but wow the taj was my highlight along with the Hindu temple in Delhi. The driving the cows the dogs are everywhere are all an experience. Goa was beautiful we stayed at the taj exotica. In mumbia we done a city tour and ended our trip in the taj for afternoon tea another must. It is a exhilarating trip but one I will never forget. From booking with Manika to all the drivers and guides they were always there to meet us from the airport and hotels on time. They really looked after us thank you all.
Aileen M
Wonderful trip
We have just returned from our first trip to India and we must say it was absolutely fascinating. The itinerary was first class and covered everything we could have wished for. On arrival we were met by a very nice rep and driver who took us to our hotel and sorted out the necessary paperwork with us. We had our driver Vishan for our time in the north and he was terrific, kept the vehicle spotless and kept us supplied with water. We then flew to the south of India and met up with our driver Suhdeer who again was very nice and very informative about things as we drove along. The guides we had on all our trips were excellent and again very informative.
The only down side to it all was that in our package we paid for the drivers accommodation, food and allowance only to find out that the drivers don’t receive this money and if they want accommodation they have to pay for it themselves. We ended up paying one of our drivers an amount for the nights that we had him for him to get somewhere to sleep and food as we were concerned that if he slept in his car he wouldn’t be rested enough to take on the next day driving for 4-5 hours.
All in all Caper Travel are excellent in their planning and can’t fault them for that.
Urquiola, New York City, New York
Caper travel
Recently traveled to India on a private guided tour with Caper Travel. Ms. Mumtaz Khan worked with me on arranging my itinerary.
She was always available to answer all my concerns immediately. On my arrival in Delhi I was welcome with warm smile at the airport by a young gentleman name Kapol Joshi . My experience with the company was amazing and I would highly recommend to anyone traveling to India.
I would also like to mention the personal attention I received at Amritsar by Aman Shara and his lovely wife who welcomed me and my son to their home
and soon to open their beautiful hotel.