bigtravelbuzzBihar Sharif is a city located in the Nalanda district of the Indian state of Bihar. It is the district headquarters and is situated around 70 kilometers southeast of the state capital, Patna. The city has a rich history and is known for its many ancient Buddhist sites, including the famous Nalanda University, which was one of the oldest and most prestigious centers of learning in the world.
Apart from its historical and cultural significance, Bihar Sharif is also an important commercial center and has a thriving economy. The city is known for its production of handicrafts, especially handloom products like silk and cotton textiles, and has a number of small-scale industries that contribute to the local economy.
Bihar Sharif is well-connected to other parts of Bihar and the country through a network of roads and railways. The nearest airport is located in Patna, which is around two hours’ drive from the city. The city also has a number of hotels and guesthouses, making it a popular destination for tourists and travelers.
Places to Visit in Bihar Sharif
There are several places to visit in Bihar Sharif that showcase the rich cultural and historical heritage of the city. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Bihar Sharif include:
- Nalanda University: Nalanda University is one of the most famous ancient centers of learning in the world, and it is located around 15 kilometers from Bihar Sharif. It was a renowned Buddhist university that existed from the 5th to the 12th century CE and attracted scholars from all over the world.
- Tomb of Sher Shah Suri: The tomb of Sher Shah Suri is a grand mausoleum that was built in the 16th century to honor the great ruler Sher Shah Suri. The tomb is an impressive example of Mughal architecture and is located in the center of the city.
- Barabar Caves: The Barabar Caves are a series of ancient rock-cut caves that are located around 25 kilometers from Bihar Sharif. They are considered to be some of the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India and are famous for their intricate carvings and inscriptions.
- Rajgir: Rajgir is a famous pilgrimage site located around 15 kilometers from Bihar Sharif. It is considered to be an important place for Buddhists, Jains, and Hindus alike and is known for its hot springs, temples, and beautiful natural surroundings.
- Griddhakuta Peak: Griddhakuta Peak is a beautiful hill located near Rajgir that is associated with several important events in the life of Buddha. The hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts.
- Kundalpur: Kundalpur is a small village located around 30 kilometers from Bihar Sharif that is considered to be an important pilgrimage site for Jains. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, and has several ancient temples and shrines dedicated to him.
Best Time To Visit Bihar Sharif
The best time to visit Bihar Sharif is from October to March, during the winter months. The weather during this time is pleasant, with cool and dry temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s many cultural and historical attractions. The temperature during this time ranges from around 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The summer months, from April to June, can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 40 degrees Celsius, making it uncomfortable to travel and explore the city during this time. The monsoon season, from July to September, can be unpredictable, with occasional heavy rains and floods that can disrupt travel plans.
Overall, the best time to visit Bihar Sharif is during the winter months, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for travel and sightseeing. Looking for more places in Bihar? Have a look on our guide to Gaya here.
Things to Do in Bihar Sharif
There are several things to do in Bihar Sharif that can make your trip to this historical city a memorable one. Here are some of the top things to do in Bihar Sharif:
- Explore the Ancient Buddhist Sites: Bihar Sharif is home to several ancient Buddhist sites like the Nalanda University, Rajgir, and Barabar Caves. Exploring these sites can give you a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the city.
- Visit the Tomb of Sher Shah Suri: The Tomb of Sher Shah Suri is an impressive Mughal monument that is worth a visit. The tomb is a great example of Mughal architecture and is located in the center of the city.
- Trek to Griddhakuta Peak: Griddhakuta Peak is a beautiful hill located near Rajgir that is associated with several important events in the life of Buddha. The hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts.
- Explore the Local Markets: Bihar Sharif is known for its handicrafts, especially handloom products like silk and cotton textiles. Exploring the local markets can give you an opportunity to shop for some unique and authentic souvenirs.
- Taste the Local Cuisine: Bihar Sharif is known for its delicious local cuisine that includes dishes like litti-chokha, sattu paratha, and dal puri. Trying out the local cuisine can be a delightful experience.
- Attend Festivals: Bihar Sharif celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Holi, Diwali, and Chhath Puja. Attending these festivals can give you an opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.
Overall, there are several things to do in Bihar Sharif that can make your trip a memorable one, from exploring ancient Buddhist sites to tasting the local cuisine and attending festivals.
How to Get Around in Bihar Sharif
Bihar Sharif is a small city that can be easily explored on foot or by using public transportation. Here are some of the ways to get around in Bihar Sharif:
- Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Bihar Sharif. They are affordable and convenient, and you can easily hire them to get around the city.
- Cycle-rickshaws: Cycle-rickshaws are another option for short distances. They are a bit slower than auto-rickshaws, but they are environmentally friendly and offer a more leisurely way of exploring the city.
- Taxis: Taxis are available in Bihar Sharif, but they are relatively expensive compared to auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws. You can hire taxis to travel to nearby towns and cities.
- Buses: Bihar Sharif has a bus service that connects the city to nearby towns and cities. The buses are affordable, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable, especially during peak hours.
- Walking: Bihar Sharif is a small city that can be easily explored on foot. Walking can be an enjoyable way to explore the city’s narrow lanes, bustling markets, and historic sites.
Overall, getting around Bihar Sharif is relatively easy and affordable, with several options to choose from, including auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, taxis, buses, and walking.
Where to eat in Bihar Sharif
Bihar Sharif is known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional Bihari dishes like litti-chokha, sattu paratha, and dal puri. Here are some of the top places to eat in Bihar Sharif:
- Hotel Gargee Grand: Hotel Gargee Grand is a popular restaurant in Bihar Sharif that serves a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. The restaurant has a beautiful ambiance and offers a great dining experience.
- Rangla Punjab: Rangla Punjab is a vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious Punjabi food. The restaurant is known for its thalis, which include a variety of dishes like chana masala, dal makhani, and kadhai paneer.
- Niranjana Restaurant: Niranjana Restaurant is a popular restaurant in Bihar Sharif that serves traditional Bihari cuisine. The restaurant is known for its litti-chokha, sattu paratha, and other local delicacies.
- Biryani Point: Biryani Point is a great place to visit if you are a biryani lover. The restaurant serves delicious biryanis, including chicken biryani, mutton biryani, and vegetable biryani.
- Aggarwal Sweets: Aggarwal Sweets is a popular sweet shop in Bihar Sharif that serves a variety of traditional Indian sweets like rasgulla, gulab jamun, and peda.
Overall, there are several great places to eat in Bihar Sharif that offer delicious local cuisine as well as other Indian and international cuisines.
Famous street stalls in Bihar Sharif
Bihar Sharif is known for its street food, and there are several street stalls that offer delicious local delicacies. Here are some of the famous street stalls in Bihar Sharif:
- Litti-Chokha Stall: Litti-Chokha is a traditional Bihari dish that is a must-try when you are in Bihar Sharif. There are several street stalls that offer delicious litti-chokha, including the one located near Hira Panna Jewellers in Bihar Sharif.
- Chana-Jalebi Stall: Chana-Jalebi is a popular breakfast dish in Bihar Sharif that you can find at several street stalls across the city. The dish consists of a spicy chana masala served with hot and crispy jalebis.
- Sattu Paratha Stall: Sattu Paratha is another popular breakfast dish in Bihar Sharif that you can find at several street stalls. The parathas are made with sattu (roasted gram flour) and are served with a spicy potato curry.
- Chaat Stall: Chaat is a popular street food in Bihar Sharif that you can find at several street stalls across the city. The dish consists of a spicy mix of potatoes, chickpeas, and crunchy papdis, topped with chutneys and yogurt.
- Samosa-Kachori Stall: Samosas and Kachoris are popular snacks in Bihar Sharif that you can find at several street stalls across the city. The crispy and spicy snacks are perfect for a quick bite on the go.
Overall, there are several famous street stalls in Bihar Sharif that offer delicious local delicacies like litti-chokha, chana-jalebi, sattu paratha, chaat, and samosas.
Where to stay in Bihar Sharif
Luxury accommodation
Bihar Sharif is a small city, and there are limited options for luxury accommodation. However, there are a few hotels that offer comfortable and luxurious stay experiences. Here are some of the best luxury accommodation options in Bihar Sharif:
- Hotel Gargee Grand: Hotel Gargee Grand is a luxurious hotel in Bihar Sharif that offers comfortable and spacious rooms, along with several amenities like a swimming pool, gym, and spa. The hotel also has a multi-cuisine restaurant and a bar.
- Rajgir Residency: Rajgir Residency is another luxurious hotel located in the nearby town of Rajgir, about 15 km from Bihar Sharif. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms with modern amenities and several facilities like a swimming pool, gym, and spa.
- The Sarvodaya Hotel: The Sarvodaya Hotel is a luxurious hotel located in the nearby town of Nawada, about 30 km from Bihar Sharif. The hotel offers spacious rooms with modern amenities, along with several facilities like a swimming pool, gym, and spa.
Overall, if you are looking for luxury accommodation in Bihar Sharif, Hotel Gargee Grand is your best bet. However, if you are willing to stay in nearby towns like Rajgir or Nawada, you can also consider Rajgir Residency or The Sarvodaya Hotel.
Budget accommodation
Bihar Sharif has several budget accommodation options for travelers who are looking for affordable and comfortable stay options. Here are some of the best budget accommodation options in Bihar Sharif:
- Hotel Shanti Palace: Hotel Shanti Palace is a popular budget hotel in Bihar Sharif that offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel also has a restaurant and offers room service.
- Hotel Akshat International: Hotel Akshat International is another popular budget hotel in Bihar Sharif that offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel also has a restaurant and offers room service.
- Hotel Madhurima: Hotel Madhurima is a budget hotel located near the railway station in Bihar Sharif. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices, along with facilities like a restaurant and room service.
- Hotel Buddha Residency: Hotel Buddha Residency is a budget hotel located in the nearby town of Rajgir, about 15 km from Bihar Sharif. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices, along with facilities like a restaurant and room service.
Overall, there are several budget accommodation options in Bihar Sharif that offer clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. Hotel Shanti Palace, Hotel Akshat International, and Hotel Madhurima are some of the best options in Bihar Sharif, while Hotel Buddha Residency in Rajgir is another affordable option that is located nearby. Looking for more places in Bihar? Have a look on our guide to Darbhanga here.
Travel Tips Bihar Sharif
If you are planning a trip to Bihar Sharif, here are some travel tips that can help make your trip more enjoyable:- Plan your trip during the winter months (November-February) as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious places like the Nalanda University ruins and the Tomb of Sher Shah Suri.
- If you are a vegetarian, look for restaurants that offer pure vegetarian food as Bihar Sharif is known for its non-vegetarian cuisine.
- Carry a sufficient amount of cash as most places in Bihar Sharif do not accept credit cards or online payment options.
- Carry a good sunscreen lotion, sunglasses, and a hat/cap as the sun can be quite strong during the day.
- Hire a local guide when visiting historical sites like the Nalanda University ruins, as they can provide valuable insights and information.
- Be cautious when traveling by road as the traffic in Bihar Sharif can be chaotic, especially during peak hours.
- Respect the local culture and customs, and seek permission before taking photographs of people or places.
- Carry a mosquito repellent as Bihar Sharif is located in a mosquito-prone area.
- Finally, always keep your belongings safe and secure, especially in crowded places like markets and bus stations.
By following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Bihar Sharif.
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