Five Lesser-Known Historical Monuments In Bihar You Must Visit
Bihar has numerous historical monuments reflecting the state's rich cultural heritage. While destinations like Bodh Gaya and Nalanda are popular among tourists enchanted by history, Bihar also hides many lesser-known historical monuments that unfold grand tales of the past. Some even are a testament to the state's significant status during different passages of time. Here's a list of these rare gems for your next visit.
Rohtasgarh Fort
Rohtasgarh Fort is a magnificent structure located in the Rohtas district of Bihar. Sher Shah Suri built it in the 16th century and stands tall at 1,500 feet. The fort is a perfect example of medieval architecture and is famous for its massive gateway, the Hathiya Pol, adorned with elephant sculptures. The fort also has a mosque, a watchtower, and a beautiful palace.
How to reach
By Air The nearest airport to Rohtas is the Gaya International Airport (approximately 124 km away). You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to Rohtas.
By Train Rohtas has its railway station called Sasaram Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Bihar and other parts of India.
By Road Rohtas is well-connected by roadways and can be accessed via buses or private vehicles from Patna, Gaya, and Varanasi.
Agam Kuan
Agam Kuan is an ancient well located in Patna. It is believed to have been built during the Mauryan period and is one of India's oldest and most mysterious archaeological sites. The well is said to have been used by Emperor Ashoka to torture prisoners by throwing them into the well. The well is now a popular tourist attraction and is said to be associated with many legends and stories.
How to reach
By Air Patna has its own airport called Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to and from Patna.
By Train Patna is a major railway hub in Bihar and is well-connected to various cities across India. Patna Junction is the main railway station in the city.
By Road Patna is well-connected by roadways to cities like Kolkata, Varanasi, and Ranchi. You can reach the city by bus, private vehicles, or taxis.
Barabar Caves
Barabar Caves are a group of rock-cut caves in the Jehanabad district of Bihar. They are believed to have been carved out during the Mauryan period and are some of India's oldest surviving rock-cut caves. The caves are famous for their unique architecture and are said to have been used by Jain and Buddhist monks for meditation. The interiors of the caves are adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions.
How to reach
By Air The nearest airport to Barabar Caves is the Gaya International Airport, approximately 70 kilometres away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach Barabar Caves.
By Train The nearest railway station to Barabar Caves is the Jehanabad Railway Station, about 33 kilometres away. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Barabar Caves. Alternatively, you can also take a train to Patna Junction, which is well-connected to major cities in India, and then proceed to Barabar Caves by road.
By Road Barabar Caves are situated near Makhdumpur in Jehanabad district. You can reach Barabar Caves by road from various cities in Bihar, such as Patna and Gaya.
Vikramshila Mahavihara
Vikramshila Mahavihara is an ancient Buddhist monastery in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. King Dharmapala built it in the 8th century, and was a famous centre of Buddhist learning during the Pala dynasty. The monastery is known for its beautiful architecture and is said to have been one of India's largest and most important Buddhist universities.
How to reach
By Air The nearest airport to Bhagalpur is the Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport in Patna, approximately 240 kilometres away. You can hire a taxi from the airport or take a bus to Bhagalpur. The journey by road takes around 5-6 hours.
By Train Bhagalpur is well-connected by rail to various cities across India. Bhagalpur Junction is the main railway station.
By Road Bhagalpur has good connectivity with other cities in Bihar, such as Patna and Kolkata. You can reach Bhagalpur by bus, private vehicles, or taxis.
Munger Fort
Munger Fort is a historic fort located in the Munger district of Bihar. It was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century and served as a military outpost. The fort is famous for its impressive architecture and is said to have been one of the most formidable forts of its time. The fort has a beautiful mosque, a palace, and a prison block.
How to reach
By Air The nearest airport to Munger is the Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport in Patna, which is approximately 200 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munger.
By Train Munger is well-connected by rail to various cities across India. Munger Junction is the main railway station in the city.
By Road Munger has good road connectivity with other cities such as Kolkata and Patna. You can reach Munger by buses, private vehicles, or taxis.
