The name 'Bihar' is derived from 'vihara' or 'monastery'. 25 centuries ago, it was in Bihar that Prince Siddhartha gave up his royal comforts in search of enlightenment.

Best period to visit:
Bihar can be visited all the year round.

Best time:
Oct-Apr

Places to visit:

Patna :
The capital of Bihar was know as Patliputra during ancient times. Some of the most important empires flourished here, from the 6th century BC to the 5th century A.D. under the Magadh, Maurya and Gupta kings.
A 16th century mosque built by Sher Shah Suri is a notable specimen of Afghan architecture.
Harminder Gurudwara is one of the holiest Sikh Shrines.
Golgarh situated in the capital Patna is a 18th century bee-hive shaped 29-metre structure built to serve as a state granary. Interesting stone and terrocotta figures from different excavation sites adorn it. Khuda Baksh oriental library has a collection of rare Arabic and Persian manuscripts, Rajput and Mughal art.

Maner-
is the burial site of a sufi saint Makhdoon Yahiya Maneri. It is the most important Muslim shrine in Bihar.

Vaishali-
is the birthplace of the Jain saint, Mahavira. Lord Buddha spent his last years here.

Lauria Nandangarh-
has a lion pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka besides Buddhist stupas.

Bodhgaya-
South of Patna, is where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. The 'pipal' tree which stands on the holy spot today is said to have grown from the original Bodhi tree. The Mahabodhi Temple which enshrines a gilded image of Buddha and the Bodhi tree are prime pilgrim attractions. International Magadh University lies very close to the temple.

Gaya-
is an important Hindu pilgrimage, on the banks of the Falgu river.
Barabar Caves are rock-cut caves from the Mauryan period.

Nalanda-
is the site of the world-famous International University of the 5th century. Archaeological Museum and Nav Nalanda Mahavira Institute in Nalanda are worth visiting.

Rajgir-
Buddha spent time in this lush valley. The site where Emperor Bimbisara converted to Buddhism is also at Rajgir. Venuvan vihar is the residence that Bimbisara built for Lord Buddha. Jivakamravan Monastery has been excavated and is worth a visit.

Arts & Crafts:
Ethnic handicrafts. Bamboo, leather, wooden toys. Delicate white metal statues. Cane and grass baskets. Jute wall hangings.Madhubani paintings in paper and cloth using vegetable dyes.