7-Day Bihar Exploration

Thursday, August 17: Patna

Begin your Bihar adventure in Patna, the capital city. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Golghar, a stunning beehive-shaped granary offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the Patna Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of Bihar. End your day with a serene boat ride along the Ganges River at Gandhi Ghat, where you can witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti.

• Golghar: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Patna Museum: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Gandhi Ghat: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Friday, August 18: Nalanda & Rajgir

Head to Nalanda, home to the ancient Nalanda University. Spend your morning exploring the ruins of this renowned educational institution. Afterward, make your way to Rajgir, a historical town nestled in the lush hills. In the afternoon, visit the Vishwa Shanti Stupa for peaceful surroundings and stunning views. Complete your day with a visit to the hot springs at Brahma Kund, known for their healing properties.

• Nalanda University Ruins: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Vishwa Shanti Stupa: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Brahma Kund: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Saturday, August 19: Bodh Gaya

Embark on a spiritual journey to Bodh Gaya, the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Begin your morning with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important pilgrimage destination. In the afternoon, explore the Bodhi Tree, under which Buddha meditated. End your day with a visit to the Great Buddha Statue, a symbol of peace and tranquility.

• Mahabodhi Temple: No cost, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Bodhi Tree: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Great Buddha Statue: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, August 20: Vaishali

Discover the ancient city of Vaishali, known for its historical and religious significance. Start your morning by visiting the Ashokan Pillar and the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. In the afternoon, explore the Vaishali Museum to learn about the region's rich heritage. Complete your day with a tranquil stroll by the banks of the serene Buddha Stupa.

• Ashokan Pillar: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Vishwa Shanti Stupa: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Vaishali Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Buddha Stupa: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Monday, August 21: Darbhanga

Head to Darbhanga, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and architectural wonders. Start your morning by visiting the Rajnagar Palace, a stunning fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture. In the afternoon, explore the Ahilya Asthan Temple, a sacred site dedicated to Goddess Sita. End your day with a visit to the Nargauna Palace, an architectural marvel.

• Rajnagar Palace: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Ahilya Asthan Temple: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Nargauna Palace: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, August 22: Pawapuri & Rajgir

Visit Pawapuri, an important Jain pilgrimage site. Start your morning with a visit to the Jal Mandir, a temple situated in the middle of a large lotus pond. In the afternoon, explore the Samosharan Temple, known for its beautiful carvings and sacred surroundings. Later, return to Rajgir and visit the ancient ruins of the Cyclopean Wall and Bimbisara Jail.

• Jal Mandir: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Samosharan Temple: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Cyclopean Wall and Bimbisara Jail: No cost, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, August 23: Gaya

Conclude your Bihar journey in Gaya, a city with religious significance for multiple religions. Start your morning by visiting the Vishnupad Temple, a sacred site for Hindus. In the afternoon, explore the Barabar Caves, ancient rock-cut caves dating back to Mauryan times. End your day with a visit to the peaceful Surya Kund.

• Vishnupad Temple: No cost, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Barabar Caves: No cost, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Surya Kund: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Bihar, make sure to visit the ancient ruins of Vikramshila University near Bhagalpur, a significant learning center during the Pala Empire. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the unique boat ride through the floating vegetable market at Patna's Gaighat. For a taste of local cuisine, try the famous litti chokha, a traditional Bihari dish made of roasted gram flour balls served with an assortment of side dishes.

For more information on flight and hotel prices, check out Kayak.