Bihar, the cradle of Indian civilisation and Buddhism, is a land where history breathes through historic stones, temples, and ruins. Once domestic to mythical dynasties and brilliant pupils, it holds treasures that showcase India’s spiritual and architectural brilliance. From Emperor Ashoka’s pillars to Sher Shah Suri’s tomb and the enlightenment seat of Buddha, Bihar is a living museum ready to be explored.

Here’s your whole manual to the top 10 best monuments of Bihar, together with journey tips, ideal visiting seasons, and must-see highlights.

1. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya-ghumney

 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mahabodhi Temple is where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment and became Buddha. Its towering spire, sacred Bodhi tree, and tranquil atmosphere make it one of the most respected Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.

  • Location: Bodh Gaya
  • Best Time to Visit: October–March
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Travel Tip: Visit early morning for peaceful chanting sessions below the Bodhi Tree.
  • How to Get There: 17 km from Gaya International Airport, properly connected by rail and road.

2. Ruins of Nalanda University

Ruins of Nalanda University

Once the sector’s first residential university, Nalanda became a centre of understanding, attracting pupils from Asia and beyond. The red-brick ruins, monasteries, and stupas inform stories of India’s golden age of mastery.

  • Location: Nalanda District
  • Best Time to Visit: November–February
  • Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners)
  • Travel Tip: Visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum close by.
  • How to Get There: Around ninety-five km from Patna by way of road.

3. Rajgir Vishwa Shanti Stupa

Rajgir Vishwa Shanti Stupa-ghumney

Perched on Ratnagiri Hill, the Vishwa Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda) glows in white marble serenity. Built by Japanese Buddhists, it enshrines 4 golden Buddha statues symbolising key moments of his existence.

Location: Rajgir

  • Best Time to Visit: November–March
  • Entry Fee: Free (Cable Car: ₹150)
  • Travel Tip: Take the chairlift for panoramic valley views.
  • How to Get There: 100 km from Patna by road.

4. Tomb of Sher Shah Suri, Sasaram

Tomb of Sher Shah Suri, Sasaram-ghumney

Set within the middle of an artificial lake, this grand red sandstone mausoleum commemorates Sher Shah Suri, the extraordinary emperor who constructed the Grand Trunk Road. Its symmetry and craftsmanship stimulated later Mughal monuments.

  • Location: Sasaram
  • Best Time to Visit: October–March
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Travel Tip: Visit in the course of sunset for beautiful reflections at the lake.
  • How to Get There: Sasaram Junction is nicely connected by rail and road.

5. Barabar Caves, Jehanabad—India’s Oldest Rock-Cut Caves

Barabar Caves, Jehanabad-ghumney

Dating back to the third century BCE, the Barabar Caves have been carved below Emperor Ashoka for the Ajivika sect. Their reflect-polished granite interiors and ideal acoustics continue to be unmatched in historic architecture.

  • Location: Jehanabad District
  • Best Time to Visit: November–February
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Travel Tip: Carry water and a flashlight—facilities are restricted.
  • How to Get There: About 30 km from Jehanabad or 60 km from Patna by taxi.

6. Patna Sahib Gurudwara, Patna

Patna Sahib Gurudwara, Patna

Also known as Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib, this shrine marks the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. Its sparkling white domes, devotional hymns, and the spirit of Langar (community kitchen) outline its sacred attraction.

  • Location: Patna City
  • Best Time to Visit: October–March
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Travel Tip: Cover your head, do away with shoes, and partake in the Langar for a soulful enjoyment.
  • How to Get There: Easily reachable inside Patna by way of the street.

7. Golghar, Patna – The Iconic Granary

Golghar, Patna – The Iconic Granary

Built in 1786 after a famine, the Golghar is a huge beehive-shaped granary that now serves as a popular point of view. A climb up its 145 spiraling steps rewards visitors with breathtaking perspectives of Patna and the Ganges.

  • Location: Gandhi Maidan, Patna
  • Best Time to Visit: October–February
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Travel Tip: Visit at some stage at sunset for a satisfactory city landscape.
  • How to Get There: Located in the important Patna, easily accessible by means of car or taxi without difficulty.

8. Rohtasgarh Fort, Rohtas – The Hilltop Citadel

Rohtasgarh Fort, Rohtas -ghumney

A monumental hill fort steeped in legend, Rohtasgarh was bolstered by means of Sher Shah Suri after his victory over the Mughals. Its massive gates, palaces, and temples unfold throughout rugged terrain, echoing memories of bravery and grandeur.

  • Location: Rohtas District
  • Best Time to Visit: November–February
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes—exploring this tremendous fortress calls for some hiking.
  • How to Get There: Reach via Sasaram; the nearest railway station is Sasaram Junction.

9. Vikramshila University Ruins
vikramshila university ruins-ghumney

Founded by King Dharmapala, Vikramshila University turned into a primary center of Tantric Buddhism. Though much less preserved than Nalanda, its remains—valuable stupas, monasteries, and courtyards—talk of Bihar’s scholarly past.

  • Location: Antichak Village, Bhagalpur
  • Best Time to Visit: October–March
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Travel Tip: Hire a nearby manual for precise insights.
  • How to Get There: Well-connected with the aid of street and rail from Bhagalpur.

10. Ashokan Pillar, Lauriya-NandangarhAshokan Pillar, Lauriya-Nandangarh-ghumney

This 32-foot polished sandstone pillar, inscribed with Emperor Ashoka’s edicts, stands as an undying image of peace and morality. Despite being over 2,000 years vintage, it nonetheless gleams with Mauryan craftsmanship.

  • Location: West Champaran District
  • Best Time to Visit: October–March
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Travel Tip: Visit nearby stupas at Lauriya-Nandangarh for extra Mauryan records.
  • How to Get There: Accessible by way of road from Bettiah.

Beyond Monuments: The Sacred Ritual of Pind Daan, Gaya

Beyond Monuments: The Sacred Ritual of Pind Daan, Gaya

Not a monument, but a vital part of Bihar’s spiritual history, Pind Daan is a sacred Hindu ritual performed in Gaya for the peace of ancestors’ souls. The rituals on the banks of the Falgu River create a deeply moving joy of devotion and continuity of lifestyle.

  • Location: Gaya, Bihar
  • Best Time to Visit: September–March (Pitru Paksha length)
  • Entry Fee: Free (ritual prices can also apply)
  • Travel Tip: Seek guidance from nearby priests (Pandas) for genuine ceremonies.

Travel Tips for Visiting Monuments in Bihar.

  • Ideal Season: October to March—nice weather for exploration.
  • What to Wear: Modest and comfortable garb, especially at religious sites.
  • Getting Around: Bihar has accurate avenue and rail connectivity. Hire taxis or be part of guided tours for remote locations.
  • Language: Hindi is widely spoken; English is understood in the predominant cities.
  •  Stay Options: Patna, Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, and Nalanda provide accommodations for all budgets.

Explore Bihar with Ghumney

If you're searching for a trouble-free experience at the same time as exploring the architectural wonders of Bihar, Ghumney gives tailor-made journey packages to suit your needs. From guided excursions to accommodation, transportation, and local experiences, it guarantees that you have an unforgettable adventure through this culturally rich state.

Ready to Explore?  Book your next journey with Ghumney and discover the amazing monuments of Bihar. Visit Ghumney.com for customised tour plans and special gifts! By deciding on Bihar as your subsequent vacation spot, you’re getting into a world of ancient records, various cultures, and stunning architecture. Whether it's the serene Buddhist stupas or the grand Mughal tombs, these monuments provide a captivating glimpse into India's superb past.