Top Tourist Places and Pilgrimage sites to visit in India

Tag: Sher Shah Suri Tomb

  • Top Tourist Attractions and Pilgrimage Places in Bihar

    Bihar state is globally known for Buddhist heritage, ancient universities and historical places related to ancient empires like Magadh, Maurya & Gupta. This state is also famous for its rich cultural traditions like Mithila and Bhojpuri. Important religious destinations in Bihar are Mahabodhi Temple, Nalanda University Ruins and Takht Sri Patna Sahib.

    District-wise Tourist Attractions and Religious Places in Bihar

    Patna District’s Attraction:

    Patna city having historical roots to ancient Pataliputra of the Mauryan Empire is the capital of Bihar state. Key Tourist attractions in Patna are:

    • Patna Devi (Maa Patneshwari) Temple: This most sacred temple, one of 51 Shakti Peeths, is dedicated to Goddess Durga.
    • Takht Sri Patna Sahib:  One of Sikhism’s holiest five Takhts and birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, also called Sri Harimandir ji.
    • Mahavir Mandir: A famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman ji.
    • ISKCON Temple: A famous temple dedicated to Lord Krishana.
    • Bihar Museum: A modern museum showcasing Bihar’s rich history and housing more than 30000 artifacts.
    • Kumhrar: It is the archaeological site where remains of Mauryan Pataliputra were excavated.
    • Golghar: Historic large granary and famous city landmark.
    • Indira Gandhi Planetarium: A premier modern 3D astronomy center.
    • Gandhi Ghat: Located on Ganga River and famous for evening Ganga Aarti.

    Gaya District’s Attraction:

    Gaya district, with its headquarters in Gaya city, is known for Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Key tourist and pilgrimage attractions for Buddhists and Hindus in Gaya are:

    • Bodh Gaya: Bodh Gaya located at about 15 Kms from Gaya city is global hub for Buddhist pilgrimage having following attractions:
    • Mahabodhi Temple Complex: A UNESCO World Heritage Site where Buddha attained enlightenment, surrounded by numerous stupas.
    • Bodhi Tree: The sacred tree, behind Mahabodhi Temple, under which Gautam Buddha attended enlightenment.
    • International Monasteries: Thai Monastery, Royal Monastery, Royal Bhutan Monestery, Tibetan Monestery, Japanese Temple.
    • Archaeological Museum: Collections of Buddhist artifacts from 1st Century BC to 11th Century AD.
    • Sujata Stupa: Located across Phalgu River.
    • Dungeshwari Caves: Caves associated with Buddha’s spiritual journey at about 12 kms from Bodh Gaya.
    • Muchalindra Lake: A sacred pond associated with Buddhist mythology.
    • Gaya (Gaya ji): Gaya city also known as Gaya ji being holy town for Hindus has following attractions:
    • Vishnupad Temple: A Sacred Hindu temple associated with Lord Vishnu’s footprint.
    • Mangla Gauri Temple: One of 18 Mangla Shakti Peethas and 51 Shakti Peethas, located on Mangalagiri hills.
    • Falgu River: A sacred river back, near Vishnupad Temple, where pilgrims perform Pind Daan and known as ‘hidden Ganga’.
    • Ramshila Hill: A sacred site, located at 5 Kms from Vishnupad Temple, associated with Lord Rama.
    • Pretshila Hill: A sacred site, located at 8 Kms from Gaya, dedicated to Lord Yama, where Pind Daan is performed.
    • Baba Koteshwarnath Temple: An ancient Shiva Temple in Main village.

    Nalanda District’s Attraction:

    Bihar Sharif city is the headquarters of Nalanda district, famous for ancient education and Buddhist heritage. Key Tourist and Pilgrimage attractions in Nalanda district are:

    • Nalanda Mahavihara:

              This ancient archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage site at about 12 Kms from Bihar Sharif and about 90 Kms from Patna, have following attractions:  

    • Nalanda University Ruins: Ruins of UNESCO-recognized ancient learning center.
    • Nalanda Archaeological Museum: Housing artifacts excavated from Nalanda University site.
    • Stupa Site no.3: A pyramid shaped monument with several terraces and decorated with figures of Buddha.
    • Monasteries: Ancient residential structures for monks and students.
    • Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall: Monument dedicated to Hiuen Tsang, a Chinese traveller.
    • Kundalpur: A prominent Jain pilgrimage site near Nalanda ruins, it is believed that the 24th and last Tirthankar, Lord Mahavir was born here. 

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    • Rajgir: Rajgir formerly ‘Rajagriha’ (City of Kings) is a major Buddhist and Jain pilgrimage destination located at about 30 Kms from Bihar Sarif in a valley surrounded by five hills. Key attractions are:
    • Vishwa Shanti Stupa: A large white peace stupa on Ratnagiri Hill.
    •  Gridhakuta Hill (Rajgiri): The ‘Vulture’s Peak’ where Lord Buddha preached many sermons.
    •  Hot water Springs (Sapatdhara): Known for its medicinal properties.
    • Veluvana Monastery: This was the first monastery offered by king Bimbsara to Lord Buddha.
    • Cyclopean Wall: An ancient wall stone wall.
    • Bimbsara Jail & Ajatshatru Fort: Ruins of historical site where King Bimbsara was imprisoned.
    • Ghora Katora Lake: A scenic lake near Rajgir.
    • Jal Mandir (Pawapuri): A sacred Jain Temple in the middle of pond at about 16 Kms from Rajgiri.

    Bhagalpur District’s Attraction:

    Bhagalpur city known as “Silk City” and “Champa Nagri” is the headquarter of this district. Bhagalpur district is famous for its high-quality silk industry and the ancient Vikramshila University Ruins, its key Tourist and pilgrimage attractions are:

    • Vikramshila University Ruins:  Ruins of 8th century globally known ancient Buddhist university founded by King Dharmapala.
    • Kuppa Ghat Ashram:  A spiritual center on banks of Ganga River associated with Maharshi Mehi Paramhans.
    • Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary: Protected habitat for the Gangetic Dolphin.
    • Ajgaivinath Temple (Sultanganj): An ancient cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on the banks of Ganga River.
    • Champapur Digambar Jain Siddha Kshera: A sacred site, belived to be birthplace of the 12th Tirthankar, Lord Vasupujaya in Nathnagar.
    • Colganj Rock Cut Temples: Ancient rock-cut temples known for their significant architecture.

    East Champaran District’s Attraction:

    Motihari city, historically famous for Mahatma Gandhi’s Champaran Satyagraha movement, is the headquarters of East Champaran district. Key tourist attractions in East Champaran are:

    • Kesaria Stupa:  World’s largest Buddhist stupa located at 30 kms from Motihari.
    • Gandhi Memorial Motihari: Museum showing material related to Champaran Satyagraha movement.
    • Ahoka Pillar (Lauriya Areraj): A stone pillar with inscriptions from Emperor Ashoka.
    • Other Attractions: Areraj Temple ( a Shiva temple), Champaran Satyagraha Shatabdi Park, George Orwell Monument, Sitakund.

    West Champaran District’s Attraction:

    Bettiah city is is the headquarter of this district famous for nature and history. Key tourist attractions in West Champaran district are:

    • Valmiki National Park: This national park located in Valmik Nagar is the only tiger reserve in Bihar with forests and wildlife tourism.
    • Valmiki Ashram: A sacred site linked with Sage Valmiki and Ramayana traditions in Valmiki National Park near Valmiki Nagar on Indo-Nepar border.
    • Bhitiharwa Ashram: A significant Gandhian pilgrimage site associated with freedom movement.
    • Lauriya Nandangarh: An ancient massive Ashoka Pillar.
    • Chankigarh: Ancient ruins of the Nanda Dynasty and Chanakya in Narkatiaganj.
    • Bettiah Raj Complex:  Historic palace complex in Bettiah city.
    • Someshwar Fort: Old fort on highest peak of Someshwar range hills.

    Vaishali District’s Attraction:

    Hajipur city is the headquarter of Vaishali district, which is believed to be the world’s first republic and has strong Buddhist and Jain associations.      Key tourist attractions in Vaishali district are:

    • Ashokan Pillar: A single piece historic pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka.
    • Buddha Stupa: An ancient stupa, important Buddhist pilgrimage monument, believed to house the holy artifacts of Lord Budha.
    • Raja Vishal ka Garh: Excavated ruins of ancient parliament building of  Lichchhavi era.
    • Abhishek Pushkarni: A sacred tank where Lichchhavi rulers were anointed before taking office.
    • Bawan Pokhar Temple: An ancient temple of Pala period sculptures.

    Lakhisarai District’s Attraction:

    Lakhisarai city is the headquarter of this district having historical importance linked with ancient Buddhist culture. Key Attractions in Lakhisarai are:

    • Ashok Dham Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord known for a massive black stone Shivlingam. This temple also called Indradamneshwar Mahadev Mandir, attracting large crowds in Shravan, is located near Rajauna village. 
    • Lal Pahari (Jainagar): An archaeological Buddhist site believed to be ruins of ‘ Shrimaddarma Vihar’ in hill area offering scenic views and trekking opportunities.
    • Shringi Rishi Dham: A scenic spot having a temple associated with sage Shringi in a hill area.
    • Other Attractions: Jagdamba Mandir (Barahiya), Lakhisarai Museum, Kabaaiya-Karja Forests & Hills.

    Begusarai District’s Attraction:

    Begusarai district, having its headquarters in Begusarai city, is key industrial hub and is called the “Leningrad of Bihar” because of its political history, also known as birthplace of Rashtarkavi Ramdhari Singh Dinkar. Key attractions in district Begusarai:

    • Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary: A largest freshwater lake attracting migratory birds from central Asia in winter.
    • Jaymangla Garh Temple: An ancient temple, one of 51 Shakti Peeth, dedicated to Goddess Chandi Mangla Devi (Durga) in Kabar Lake.
    • Naulakha Temple: An important religious site.
    • Simaria Ghat: Site of worship and spiritual activities on the banks of Ganga River.
    • Begusarai Museum: Collection of archaeological artifacts, sculptures, coins etc.
    • Ajatshatru Fort: Ruins of 6th century fort.

    Munger District’s Attraction:

    Munger city, located on the banks of the Ganga River, is the headquarter of this historically important district. Key tourist attractions in Munger district are:

    • Bihar School of Yoga: Worldwide known yoga and spiritual learning center founded by Satyanand Saraswati.
    • Munger Fort: A historic large fort on the Ganga River housing tomb of Pir Shah Nufa and Palace of Shah Suja.
    • Chandika Sthan: One of 51 sacred Shakti Peethas, dedicated to Goddess Chandi near Munger city.
    • Kastaharni Ghat: A holy bath ghat on Gang River believed to relieve pain and fatigue.
    • Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary: A famous natural habitat, spread in about 680 sq kms, of tigers & leopards and having hot springs.
    • Other Attractions: Sita Kund & Rishi Kund, Kharagpur Lake, Pir Pahar, Mir Kasim Tunnel, Goenka Shivalaya.

    Rohtas District’s Attraction:

    Sasaram city is the headquarter of this historical and scenic district Rohtas. Key tourist attractions in Rohtas district are:

    • Rohtasgarh Fort:  An ancient massive fort on Kaimur Hills, known for medieval architecture.
    • Sher Shah Suri Tomb: This grand mausoleum, surrounded by a large water tank, located in Sasaram is masterpiece of Indo-Afghan architectural style

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    • Maa Tara Chandi Temple: This temple, near Sasaram, dedicated to Goddess Durga is one of 51 Shakti Peethas.
    • Tutla Bhawani Falls: A scenic waterfall and pilgrimage spot on Kaimur Hills.
    • Dhua Kund: A scenic waterfall on the Kaimur Hills.
    • Shergarh Fort: A mysterious fort built by Sher Shah Suri near Sasaram, having secret tunnels.
    • Gupta Dham: A cave temple of Lord Shiva in Kaimur range.
    • Chaurasan Temple: An ancient temple near Rohtasgarh town.
    • Indrapuri Barrage: A large scenic barrage on Son River. 

    Sitamarhi District’s Attraction:

    Sitamarhi district, having its headquarter in Dumra town, is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita. Key attractions in Sitamarhi are:

    • Purana Dham: This major religious attraction having a temple dedicated to Goddess Sita in Sitamarhi town is believed to be her birthplace.
    • Janaki Temple: A famous temple complex dedicated to Goddess Sita in the middle of Sitamarhi town.
    • Haleshwar Sthan: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva near Sitamarhi believed to be built by King Janak.
    • Panth Pakar: Site linked to the childhood of Goddess Sita.
    • Sita Kund: A holy water tank associated with Goddess Sita.
    • Other Attractions: Bhagi Math, Goraul Sharif, Sabhagachhi Sasaula.

    Jamui District’s Attraction:

    Jamui city is the headquarter of Jamui district known for ancient Jain religious sites and scenic sites. Key attractions in Jamui are:

    • Jain Mandir Lachhuar:  A major ancient Jain pilgrimage site linked with Lord Mahavira located in Lachhuar village.
    • Simultala Hills: A peaceful Hill station area known for greenery and peaceful surroundings.
    • Other Attractions: Minto Tower (Gidhaur), Gidheshwar Temple (Shiva temple on a hill), Nagi and Nakti Dams (wildlife sanctuary & Dam), Kali Mandir Malaypur, Khaira Fort.

    Bhojpur District’s Attraction:

    Arrah (Ara) city is the headquarters of Bhojpur district associated with the freedom fighter “Babu Veer Kunwar Singh”, who led the Revolt of 1857 in Bihar. Key Tourist attractions in Bhojpur are:

    • Arrah House:  A historical building in Arrah city linked with the Revolt of 1857, housing Veer Kunwar Singh Museum.
    • Veer Kunwar Singh Qila (Jagdishpur): This fort, a major historical landmark of 1857 revolt, located at Jagdishpur belongs to the freedom fighter “Babu Veer Kunwar Singh”.
    • Aranya Devi Temple: An ancient temple in Ara town dedicated to “Forest Goddess”.
    • Jain Sidhant Bhawan: A unique library in Ara town holding rare collections of Jain manuscripts and materials.
    •  Shahi Jama Masjid: A historical mosque at Garhani build during the reign of Sher Shah Suri.
    • Chaturvuj Narian Mandir: An ancient temple dedicated to Laxmi & Narayan at Piro.
    • Belaur Surya Mandir: A popular Sun temple in Belaur, specialy crowded during Chhath Puja.

    Buxar District’s Attraction:

    Buxar city is the headquarter of this historically important district due to the famous “Battle of Buxar” fought in 1764. Buxar district is also known for deep mythological roots associated with Lord Rama and Vishwamitra. Key attractions in Buxar district are:

    • Ramrekha Ghat: A sacred ghat on Ganga River associated with Lord Rama’s exile journey.
    • Ahirauli: Famous for Ahilya temple, believed that  Lord Rama freed Ahilya, wife of Saga Gautam,  from a curse.
    • Buxar Fort: A historic fort associated with “Battle of Buxar”.
    • Katkauli Ground: Site of “Battle of Buxar” fought in 1764, marked by a stone memorial.
    • Chausa: Known for historical “Battle of Chausa” between Sher Shah Suri and Humayun and unique “Chausa” variety of Mango.
    • Siddashram & Tapobhoomi: It is believed that Buxar is place where Saga Vishwamitra established his ashram.

    Darbhanga District’s Attraction:

    Darbhanga district, with its headquarter in Darbhanga city, is famous for Maithili heritage. Key attractions in Darbhanga district are:

    • Darbhanga Fort (Raj Quila): A historic fort complex, also called Ram Bag Fort, in 85 acre showcasing Mithila heritage, housing palaces and universities. Key attractions in Darbhanga Fort:
    • Kankali Temple: An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.
    • Nargauna Palace: A royal palace now part of university.
    • Mithila Art Galleries: Housing Madhubani paintings.
    • Fortification Walls: Red-brick walls of fort including historic watchtower and massive Sinhala main gate.
    • Shyama Mai Temple: Known for its marvel statue and part of Ram Bag.
    • Museums: Chandradhari Museum & Maharaja lakshmishwar Singh Museum.
    • Ahilya Asthan: Important Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Ahilya, the wife of Saga Gautam, believed that here Lord Rama freed Ahilya from a curse.

    Jehanabad District’s Attraction:

    Jehanabad city is the headquarter of this district having archaeological importance. Key tourist and pilgrimage attractions are:

    • Barabar Caves: These caves, located on Barabara Hill at 25 Kms from Jehanabad city, are India’s oldest rock-cut caves dating to the Mauryan period.
    • Siddheshwar Nath Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on Barabar Hill, most visited during Shravan month.
    • Nagarjuni Caves: These ancient caves of Buddhist & Ajivika architecture are located near Barabra Caves.
    • Baba Koteshwarnath Dham: An ancient temple complex of historical and spiritual importance.
    • Hazrat Bibi Kamal’s Tom: Tomb of the first lady Sufi saint in Kakko village near Jehanabad city.

    Kaimur District’s Attraction:

    Kaimur district having its headquarters in Bhabua city is known for hills, waterfalls, wildlife, ancient temples and historical sites. Key tourist attractions in Kaimur district are:

    • Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary: One of Bihar’s largest wildlife reserves offering waterfalls and trekking routes along with natural habitat of tigers, leopards and varied flora.
    • Mundeshwari Temple: One of India’s ancient temples on hilltop famous for its octagonal structure and known for unique non slaughtering sacrifices.
    • Baidyanath Temple (Ramgarh): A rock-cut ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Chainpur Fort & Harsu Brahma Temple: A large historical fort of medieval period having a sacred temple dedicated to Harsu Brahma. 
    • Other Attractions: Telhar Kund (a scenic waterfall), Karkatgarh waterfall, Adhaura (a scenic spot on Kaimur Plateau).

    Katihar District’s Attraction:

    Katihar city is the headquarter of this district. Key attrctions in Katihar district are:

    • Gogabil Lake: Birdwatching destination hosting seasonal migratory birds.
    • Gorakhnath Temple:  A sacred site for Nath devotees, much crowded on Maha Shivratri.
    • Bari Durga Mandir: A popular ancient temple in Katihar town.
    • Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Gurudawara: A historic site at Lakshmipur,Barai.
    • Kali Mandir & Gauri Shankar Mandir: A famous religious site in Katihar town.
    • Other Attractions: Gandhi Ghar (Kursela), Manihari Ghat (on Ganga River),Trimohani Sangam (confluence of three rivers).

    Kishanganj District’s Attraction:

    Kishanganj city is the headquarter if this only tea-producing district of Bihar close to West Bengal and has a strong cultural diversity. Key attractions in Kishanganj district are:

    • Tea Gardens:  Scenic tea plantation with green landscapes.
    • Khagra Stadium/Mela Area: Traditional fairground used for sports and events reflecting local culture.
    • Other Attractions: Kachuudah Lake, Har Gauri Temple,Mazar Kadam Rasul, Mahananda River.

    Madhubani District’s Attraction:

    Madhubani city is headquarter of this district know as heard of Mithila culture and world-famous Madhubani paintings. Key tourist attractions in Madhubani district are:

    • Navlakha Palace, Rajnagar: Ruins of a historic palace complex.
    • Kapileshwar Temple: A major temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Mithila region at about 9 Kms from Madhubani city.
    • Uchaitha Bhagwati Temple: A popular temple of Maa Durga associated with legendry poet Kalidasa.
    • Mithila Haat: Market place of local art and culture.
    • Madhubani Art Villages: Villages famous for world-renowned Madhubani paintings.

    Nawada District’s Attraction:

    Nawada city is the headquarter of this district known for its natural beauty. Key tourist attractions in Nawada district are:

    • Kakolat Falls:  A scenic waterfall surrounded by hills and linked with local legends.
    • Gunawan Ji Tith: A sacred Jain pilgrimage site in Gunawan village.
    • Surya Mandir Handiya: An ancient Sun temple believed to be of Dwaparayuga located in Handiya village.
    • Shekhodevara Ashram: A historic ashram in Shekhodevara village established by Jaiparkash, a prominent leader of emergency period.
    • Budhauli Monastery: A significant religious center.
    • Narad Museum: Housing ancient sculptures and artifacts.
    • Sitamarhi Caves: Famous of their ancient rock-cut architecture.

    Samastipur District’s Attraction:

    Samastipur city is headquarter of this district. Key Attractions in Samastipur district are:

    • Mangalgarh: Ancient archaeological site near Hasanpur.
    • Udyanacharya Dih (Karian): Ancient ruins in Shivaji Nagar.
    • Kabir Math & Baba’s Mazar (Rosera): Cultural site of religious harmony.
    • Khudneshwar Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Morwara.
    • Mannipur Durga Mandirt: A temple near Samastipur town

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    • Thaneshwar Asthan Temple: A famous temple in Samastipur city dedicated to Lord Shiva.

    Saran District’s Attraction:

    Chhapra city is the headquarter of this historical district known for its strong Bhojpuri cultural traditions. Key attractions in Saran district are:

    • Chirand: An ancient archaeological site on the banks of Ganga River of Neolithic and Chalcolithic periods.
    • Chhapra Museum: Housing artifacts from Chirand excavation.
    • Sonpur Fair Ground:  Venue of the famous Sonpur cattle fair held on Kartika Purnima every year at the confluence of Gandak and Ganga rivers.
    • Hariharnath Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Hari) and Lord Shiva (Hara) at the confluence of Gandak and Ganga rivers, associated with legend of Gajendra Moksha.
    • Aami Temple (Amba Asthan): Shakti Peeth temple dedicated to Goddess Durga near Dighwara.
    • Gautam Ashthan (Revelganj): An ancient ashram associated with Gautam Rishi near Chhapra.
    • Other religious spots: Dharmnath Temple (Chhapra), Sihauri, Mahandra Nath Temple (in Mehdar village), Rajendra Sarovar (Chhapra).

    Supaul District’s Attraction:

    Supaul town is the headquarter of this district known for rural landscapes and traditional village culture. Key Attractions in Supaul district are:

    • Bhimnagar Barrage: A massive barrage on Kosi River near Nepal border with scenic surroundings.
    • Vishnu Mandir (Ganpatganj): A unique temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu built in south Indian architecture.
    • Kapileshwar Mandir: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. 
    • Durga Temple (Parsarma): A major local religious site.
    • Other Attractions: Kosi River Beach (Baltharwa), Supaul Museum, Hanuman Mandir, Gajrahi picnic spot and other scenic river side spots.

    Arwal District’s Attraction:

    Arwal is an agricultural district, having its headquarters in Arwal city, and known for historical temples, scenic river views and it’s linked with ancient Magadh civilization. Key attractions in Arwal district:

    • Temples in Karpi town: Number of ancient temples reflecting Magadh-era traditions and local faith are in this town like Maa Jagdamba Sthal, Aiyara Sun Temple, Belkhara Sun Temple. Bhul Bhulaiya Gufa and Karpi Bajar are also attractions in this town.
    • Gautam Budh Mandir: A spiritual site. 
    • Sun Temple: A prominent religious spot at Devkund.
    • Makhdum Shah ka Mazaar: A religious site.
    • Son River Belt:  Scenic riverbank, popular picnic spot for local.
    • Other Attractions: Aganur Jal Vidyut Pariyojna, Fakharpur Mandir, Madhusrava Ashram, Indrapuri Barrage Right Canal.

    Aurangabad District’s Attraction:

    Aurangabad district, having its headquarters in Aurangabad city, is a historic region often called the “Chittorgarh of Bihar” and known for ancient Deo Sun Temple. Key attractions in district Aurangabad:

    • Deo Sun Temple: Most famous ancient Sun temple dedicated to Sun God, extremely crowded during Chhath Puja.
    • Umga Temple: Ancient scenic temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.
    • Amjhar Sharif: An ancient mazaar of Hazrat Saiyadan Mohammad Jilani Amjhari Quadri, an Islamic pilgrimage site.
    • Other Attractions: Piru (an ancient town believed to be birthplace of Chanakya), Deo Kund (A sacred spot), Daud Khan Fort, Pachar Hillls, Siris, Pawai Fort.

    Banka District’s Attraction:

    Banka district, having its headquarters in Banka city, is known for its hilly landscapes, forests, and natural beauty. Key attractions in district Banka:

    • Mandar Hill: A sacred granite hill linked with Samudra Manthan and having top hill popular Jain temples, other Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, a sacred pond (Paapharni pond), ancient carvings, scenic spots etc. A site of trekking and mountain climbing with pilgrimage, having ropeway and hotels facilities.
    • Papaharni Pond: A Sacred Pond at the foothills of Mandar Hills associated with Samudra Manthan and having a scenic Lakshmi-Narayan temple in its center. A dip in this pond believed to wash away sins (Paap).
    • Other Attractions: Bounsi Mela (10 days fair on Makar Sankranti), Odhni Dam, Chandan Dam, Baba Bhaiharan Nath Mandir, Lachhmipur Fort, Chuteshwar Nath.

    Khagaria District’s Attraction:

    Khagaria city is the headquarter of this district located in the flood-prone Kosi belt. Key attractions in Khagaria are:

    • Katyayani Temple: A sacred temple dedicated to Goddess Katyayani at about 12 Kms from Khagaria city near Badlaghat.
    • Shyamlal National High School: A historic site related to independence struggle of India.
    • Kosi River Belt: Scenic River landscapes and rural eco-tourism area.
    • Other Attractions: Usharaha Bridge, Ganga River back, Damodar Sarovar, Sanhouli Durga Temple.

    Muzaffarpur District’s Attraction:

    Muzaffarpur city is the headquarter of this district known as the “land of Litchee” because of its famous Shahi litchi production. Key attractions of this district are:

    • Baba Garibnath Temple: A famous temple in Muzaffarpur city dedicated to Lord Shiva attracting large number of devotees.
    • Litchi Gardens:  Orchards known for GI-tagged Shahi litchi.
    • Other Attractions: Khudi Ram Bose Memorial, Ramna Devi Mandir (Goddess Kali), Ambara Chok (Historical site), Chaturbhuj Temple, Garib Sthan Mandir (another religious site).

    Purnia District’s Attraction:

    Purnia city is the headquarter of this district know its natural, spiritual and historic landmarks. Key attractions in Purnia district are:

    • Mata Puran Devi Temple:  An old famous temple, credited for city’s name.
    • Kali Mandir: A major religious site located on Saura river.
    • Other Religious sites: Mata Sthan (Adampur), Dargah of Hazrat Mustaf Jamalul Haque Bandgi, Dhimeshwarnath Temple (Banmankhi).
    • Historical Sites: Jalalgarh Fort (ancient fort),  Kajha Kothi,Parhlad Stambh.

    Saharsa District’s Attraction:

    Saharsa city is headquarter of this district in the Kosi river region. Key Attractions in Saharsa district are:

    • Shri Ugratara Temple (Mahishi): An ancient temple associated with Adi Shankaracharya at 16 Kms from Saharsa city.
    • Chandika Temple: A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Chandika.
    • Matsyagandha Temple & Lake:  A beautiful tourist spot in Saharsa city having scenic temple and known for boating and recreation.
    • Other religious spots: Sun Temple (Kandaha), Durga Mandir (Okahi), Karu Khirhari Temple (Mahpura),

    Araria District’s Attraction:

    Araia district, having its headquarters in Araia city, is known for its rural landscapes, wetlands and Indo-Nepal border culture. Key attractions in Araria district:

    • Maa Khadgeshwari Kali Mandir:  This famous temple dedicated Goddess Kali, one of tallest temple, is in Araria city.
    • Forbesganj Wetlands: This natural wetland area known for migratory birds and rural scenery.
    • Other Attractions: Sundar Nath Dham (Shiva temple), Replica Stupa (Manikpur), Madneshwar Dham temple, Jalalgarh Fort.

    Gopalganj District’s Attraction:

    Gopalganj city is headquarters of this agricultural district having key attractions:

    • Thawe Durga Temple: A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.
    • Other Attractions: Shri Pitambara Peeth, Hathua Palace, Dighwa-Dubauli (archaeological sites),Dumaria Ghat, Badi Bazar (known for local shopping), Sonepur river area.

    Madhepura District’s Attraction:

    Madhepura city is the headquarter of this district of Kosi region famous for Singheshwar Temple. Key attractions in Madhepura are:

    Singheshwar Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at about 8 kms from Madhepura.

    Kosi River Embankment: Scenic area for relaxing walk and rural exploration.

    Sheikhpura District’s Attraction:

    Sheikhpura city is the headquarter of this district, Girihinda Hills are key tourists and pilgrims’ attractions:

    • Girihinda Hill:  This hill, located near Sheikhpura railway station, is home to Baba Kameshwar Nath Temple. It is major pilgrimage site during Sawan month and popular for trekking and local tourism.
    • Vishnu Dham (Samas): Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu attracting local devotees.
    • Other Religious Sites: Devi Asthan, Sitaram Mandir,Tripural Temple, Arghauti Pokhar.

    Sheohar District’s Attraction:

    Sheohar twon is the headquarter of this agricultural base district. Key attractions in Sheohar are:

    • Deokuli Dham: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva known as Baba Bhawaneshwar Nath Temple near Sheohar town is local famous pilgrimage center.
    • Bagmati River/ Belwa Ghat: A scenic riverbank and rural tourism spot housing Areraj temple.
    • Durga Mandir (Kushahar): A prominent temple of spiritual significance.

    Siwan District’s Attraction:

    Siwan city is the headquarter of this historical district of the Bhojpuri-speaking region. Key attractions in Siwan district are:

    • Ziradei Village: The ancestral home and birthplace of India’s first President Dr. Rajendra Prasad at 13 Kms to Siwan town.
    • Religious Sites: Baba Mahendra Nath Temple (Mehdar), Raghunathpur (Associated with Lord Rama), Panchmukhi Shivalinga Temple (ancient temple in Siwan), Anand Bagh Math & Sunder Bagh Math (Bakhri village).

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