Rich History of Bihar

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    History of Bihar

    Introduction

    Bihar, the ancient land of Buddha, has witnessed golden period of Indian history. It is the

    same land where the seeds of the first republic were sown and which cultivated the first crop

    of democracy. Such fertile is the soil that has given birth to innumerous intellectuals which

    spread the light of knowledge and wisdom not only in the country but in the whole world.

    The state has its capital at Patna, which is situated on the bank of the holy river Ganga. The

    state as it is today has been shaped from its partition from the province of Bengal and most

    recently after the separation of the tribal southern region now called Jharkhand.

    Ancient History

    The history of the land mass currently known as Bihar is very ancient. In fact, it extends to

    the very dawn of human civilization. Earliest myths and legends of hinduism the Sanatana

    (Eternal) Dharma - are associated with Bihar. Sita, the consort of Lord Rama, was a princessof Bihar. She was the daughter of King Janak of Videha. The present districts of

    Muzaffarpur, Sitamarhi, Samastipur, Madhubani, and Darbhanga, in north-central Bihar,

    mark this ancient kingdom. The present small township of Sitamarhi is located here.

    According to legend, the birthplace of Sita is Punaura, located on the west-side of Sitamarhi,

    the headquarters of the district. Janakpur, the capital of King Janak, and the place where Lord

    Rama and Sita were married, lies just across the border in Nepal. It is reached via the rail

    station of Janakapur Road located in the Sitamarhi district, on the Narkatiyaganj - Darbhanga

    section of the North-Eastern Railway. It is no accident, therefore, that the original author of

    the Hindu epic - The Ramayana - Maharishi Valmiki - lived in Ancient Bihar. Valmikinagar

    is a small town and a railroad station in the district of West Champaran, close to the railhead

    of Narkatiyaganj in northwest Bihar. The word Champaran is derived from champa-arnya, or

    a forest of the fragrant Champa (magnolia) tree.

    It was here that Prince Gautam attained enlightenment, became the Buddha- at the present

    Bodh Gaya- a town in central Bihar; and the great religion of buddhism was born. It is here

    also that Lord Mahavira, the founder of another great religion, Jainism, was born and attained

    nirvana (death). That site is located at the present town of pawapuri, some miles to the south

    east of Patna, the Capital of Bihar., it is here that the tenth and last Guru of the Sikhs, Guru

    Gobind Singh was born and attained the sainthood of sikhism, that is became a Guru. Alovely and majestic Gurudwara (a temple for Sikhs) built to commemorate his memory - the

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    harmandir- is located in eastern Patna. Known reverentially as the Patna Sahib, it is one of the

    five holiest places of worship (Takhat) for Sikhs.

    The ancient kingdoms of Magadh and of Licchavis, around about 7-8th century B.C.,produced rulers who devised a system of administration that truly is progenitor of the modern

    art of statecraft, and of the linkage of statecraft with economics. Kautilya, the author of

    Arthashastra, the first treatise of the modern science of Economics, lived here. Also known as

    Chanakya, he was the wily and canny adviser to the Magadh king, Chandragupta Maurya. As

    an emissary of Chandragupta Maurya, Chanakya traveled far and wide in pursuit of

    promoting the interests of the State and dealing with the Greek invaders settled in the

    northwest of India, along the Indus valley. He succeeded in preventing the further onslaught

    of the Greeks. Indeed, he brought about amicable co-existence between the Greeks and the

    Mauryan Empire. Megasthenes, an emissary of Alexander's General, Seleucus Necator, lived

    in Pataliputra (ancient name of Patna, the Mauryan capital) around 302 B.C. He left behind a

    chronicle of life in and around Patliputra. This is the first recorded account by a foreigntraveler in India. It describes in vivid terms the grandeur of life in Patliputra, a city

    established by King Ajatshatru, around 5th Century B.C., at the confluence of the rivers Sone

    and Ganga.

    Another Mauryan king, Ashok, (also known as Priyadarshi or Priyadassi), around 270 B.C.,

    was the first to formulate firm tenets for the governance of a people. He had these tenets, the

    so called Edicts of Ashok, inscribed on stone pillars which were planted across his kingdom.

    The pillar were crowned with the statue of one or more lions sitting on top of a pedestal

    which was inscribed with symbols of wheels. As the lion denoted strength, the wheel denoted

    the eternal (endless) nature of truth (dharma), hence the name Dharma (or Dhamma) Chakra.

    This figure of lions, atop a pedestal, with inscription of a wheel, was adopted as the Official

    Seal of the independent Republic of India (1947). Also, Ashok's dharma chakra was

    incorporated into the national flag of India, the Indian tricolor. Remains of a few of these

    pillars are still extant, for example at Lauriya-Nandan Garh in the district of West Champaran

    and at vaishali, in the present district of the same name. Ashok, a contemporary of Ptolemy

    and Euclid, was a great conqueror. His empire extended from what is now the North West

    Frontier Province (in Pakistan) in the west, to the eastern boundaries of present India in the

    north, and certainly, up to the Vindhyan Range in the south. Ashok was responsible also for

    the widespread proselytization of people into Buddhism. He sent his son, Prince Mahendra,and daughter, Sanghamitra, for this purpose to as far south as the present country of Sri

    Lanka (Sinhal Dweep in ancient times, and Ceylon during the British Empire. Some

    historians, particularly Sinhalese, consider Mahindra and Sanghmitra as brother and sister.

    Ancient Bihar also saw the glorification of women in matters of state affairs. It was here that

    Amrapali, a courtesan of Vaishali (the present district of the same name) in the kingdom of

    the Lichhavis, attained and wielded enormous power. It is said that the Lord Buddha, during

    his visit to Vaishali, refused the invitation of many princes, and chose to have dinner with

    Amrapali instead. Such was the status of women in the Bihari society of several centuriesB.C.!

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    A little-known, but historically and archaeologically documented, event is worth mentioning

    in this context. After his visit with Amrapali, Lord Buddha continued with his journey

    towards Kushinagar (also called Kusinara in Buddhist texts.) He travelled along the eastern

    banks of the river Gandak (also called Narayani, which marks the western border ofChamparan, a district now administratively split into two- West and East Champaran.) A

    band of his devoted Licchavis accompanied Lord Buddha in this journey. At a spot known as

    Kesariya, in the present Purbi (meaning, East) Champaran district, Lord Buddha took rest for

    the night. It was here that he chose to announce to his disciples the news of his impending

    niravana (meaning, death); and implored them to return to Vaishali. The wildly lamenting

    Licchavis would have none of that. They steadfastly refused to leave. Whereupon, Lord

    Buddha, by creating a 3,000 feet wide stream between them and himself compelled them to

    leave. As a souvenir he gave them his alms-bowl. The Licchavis, most reluctantly and

    expressing their sorrow wildly, took leave and built a stupa there to commemorate the event.

    Lord Buddha had chosen that spot to announce his impending nirvana because, as he told his

    disciple Anand, he knew that in a previous life he had ruled from that place, namely,Kesariya, as a Chakravarti Raja, Raja Ben. (Again, this is not just a mere legend, myth or

    folk-lore. Rather, it is a historiclly documented fact supported by archaeological findings.

    However, neither this part of Buddha's life, nor the little town of Kesariya, is well-known

    even in India or Bihar.

    At Nalanda, the world's first seat of higher learning, an university, was established during the

    Gupta period. It continued as a seat of learning till the middle ages, when the muslim

    invaders burned it down. The ruins are a protected monument and a popular tourist spot. A

    museum and a learning center- The Nava Nalanda Mahavira - are located here.

    Nearby, Rajgir, was capital of the Muaryan Empire during the reign of Bimbisara. It was

    frequently visited by Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira. There are many Buddhist ruins here.

    It is also well-known for its many hot-springs which, like similar hot-springs elsewhere in the

    world, are reputed to have medicinal property.

    Medieval History

    This glorious history of Bihar lasted till around the middle of the 7th or 8th century A.D. - the

    Gupta Period - when, with the conquest of almost all of northern India by invaders from the

    middle-east, the Gupta dynasty also fell a victim.

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    In medieval times Bihar lost its prestige as the political and cultural center of India. The

    Mughal period was a period of unremarkable provincial administration from Delhi. The only

    remarkable person of these times in Bihar was Sher Shah, or Sher Khan Sur, an Afghan.

    Based at Sasaram which is now a town in the district of the same name in central-western

    Bihar, this jagirdar of the Mughal King Babur was successful in defeating Humayun, the son

    of Babur, twice - once at Chausa and then, again, at Kannauj (in the present state of UttarPradesh or U.P.) Through his conquest Sher Shah became the ruler of a territory that, again,

    extended all the way to the Punjab. He was noted as a ferocious warrior but also a noble

    administrator - in the tradition of Ashok and the Gupta kings. Several acts of land reform are

    attributed to him. The remains of a grand mausoleum that he built for himself can be seen in

    today's Sasaram (Sher Shah's maqbara.)

    Modern History

    During most of British India, Bihar was a part of the Presidency of Bengal, and was governed

    from Calcutta. As such, this was a territory very much dominated by the people of Bengal.

    All leading educational and medical centers were in Bengal. In spite of the unfair advantage

    that Bengalis possessed, some sons of Bihar rose to positions of prominence, by dint of their

    intelligence and hard labor. One such was Rajendra Prasad, native of Ziradei, in the district of

    Saran. He became the first President of the Republic of India.

    When separated from the Bengal Presidency in 1912, Bihar and Orissa comprised a single

    province. Later, under the Government of India Act of 1935, the Division of Orissa became a

    separate province; and the Province of Bihar came into being as an administrative unit of

    British India. At Independence in 1947, the State of Bihar, with the same geographic

    boundary, formed a part of the Republic of India, until 1956. At that time, an area in the

    south-east, predominantly the district of Purulia, was separated and incorporated into West

    Bengal as part of the Linguistic Reorganization of Indian States.

    Resurgence in the history of Bihar came during the struggle for India's independence. It wasfrom Bihar that Mahatma Gandhi launched his civil-disobedience movement, which

    ultimately led to India's independence. At the persistent request of a farmer, Raj Kumar

    Shukla, from the district of Champaran, in 1917 Gandhiji took a train ride to Motihari, the

    district headquarters of Champaran. Here he learned, first hand, the sad plight of the indigo

    farmers suffering under the oppressive rule of the British. Alarmed at the tumultuous

    reception Gandhiji received in Champaran, the British authorities served notice on him to

    leave the Province of Bihar. Gandhiji refused to comply, saying that as an Indian he was free

    to travel anywhere in his own country. For this act of defiance he was detained in the district

    jail at Motihari. From his jail cell, with the help of his friend from South Africa days, C. F.

    Andrews, Gandhiji managed to send letters to journalists and the Viceroy of India describing

    what he saw in Champaran, and made formal demands for the emancipation of these people.

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    When produced in court, the Magistrate ordered him released, but on payment of bail.

    Gandhiji refused to pay the bail. Instead, he indicated his preference to remain in jail under

    arrest. Alarmed at the huge response Gandhiji was receiving from the people of Champaran,

    and intimidated by the knowledge that Gandhiji had already managed to inform the Viceroy

    of the mistreatment of the farmers by the British plantation owners, the magistrate set him

    free, without payment of any bail. This was the first instance of the success of civil-disobedience as a tool to win freedom. The British received, their first "object lesson" of the

    power of civil-disobedience. It also made the British authorities recognize, for the first time,

    Gandhiji as a national leader of some consequence. What Raj Kumar Shukla had started, and

    the massive response people of Champaran gave to Gandhiji, catapulted his reputation

    throughout India. Thus, in 1917, began a series of events in a remote corner of Bihar, that

    ultimately led to the freedom of India in 1947.

    Sir Richard Attenborough's award winning film, "Gandhi", authentically, and at some length,

    depicts the above episode. (Raj Kumar Shukla is not mentioned by his name in the film,however.) The two images here are from that film. The bearded gentleman, just behind

    Gandhiji, in the picture on the left, and on the elephant at right, is Raj Kumar Shukla.

    Gandhiji, in his usual joking way, had commented that in Champaran he "found elephants

    just as common as bullock carts in (his native) Gujarat"!!

    It was natural, therefore, that many people from Bihar became leading participants in India's

    struggle for independence. Dr. Rajendra Prasad has been mentioned above. Another was Jay

    Prakash Narayan, affectionately called JP. JP's substantial contribution to modern Indian

    history continued up until his death in 1979. It was he who steadfastly and staunchly opposed

    the autocratic rule of Indira Gandhi and her younger son, Sanjay Gandhi. Fearing people's

    reaction to his opposition, Indira Gandhi had him arrested on the eve of declaring National

    Emergency beginning June 26, 1975. He was put in the Tihar Jail, located near Delhi, where

    notorious criminals are jailed. Thus, in Free India, this septuagenarian, who had fought for

    India's freedom alongside Indira Gandhi's father, Jawahar Lal Nehru, received a treatment

    that was worse than what the British had meted out to Gandhiji in Champaran in 1917, for his

    speaking out against oppression. The movement started by JP, however, brought theEmergency to an end, led to the massive defeat of Indira Gandhi and her Congress Party at

    the polls, and, to the installation of a non-Congress government -The Janata Party - at Delhi,

    for the first time. With the blessings of JP, Morarji Desai became the fourth Prime Minister of

    India. JP remained the Conscience of the Janata Party and of post-Gandhi - post-Nehru India.

    He gave a call to all Indians to work ceaselessly towards eliminating "dictatorship in favour

    of democracy" and bringing about "freedom from slavery". Sadly, soon after attaining power,

    bickering began among the leaders of the Janata Party which led to the resignation of Shri

    Desai as the Prime Minister. JP continued with his call for "total revolution" (sampporna

    kranti), but he succumbed to kidney failure at a hospital in Bombay in 1979.

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    Subsequent bickering in the Janata Party led to the formation of a breakaway political party -

    the Janata Dal. This political party is a constituent unit of the current ruling coalition at Delhi,

    the so called, United Front. It was also from this party that Laloo Prasad Yadav, the Chief

    Minister of Bihar was elected. The bickering continued. A new party led by Mr. Yadav was

    formed as - the Rashtriya Janata Dal - which went on to rule for almost 15 years in Bihar.

    This was also a period when Hindi literature came to flourish in the state. Raja Radhika

    Raman Singh, Shiva Pujan Sahay, Divakar Prasad Vidyarthy, Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, Ram

    Briksha Benipuri, are some of the luminaries who contributed to the flowering of Hindi

    literature, which did not have much of a long history. The Hindi language, certainly its

    literature, began around mid to late nineteenth century. It is marked by the appearance of

    Bhartendu Babu Harischandra's ( a resident of Varanasi in U.P.) drama "Harischandra".

    Devaki Nandan Khatri began writing his mystery novels in Hindi during this time

    (Chandrakanta, Chandrakanta Santati, Kajar ki Kothari, Bhootnath, etc.) He was born at

    Muzaffarpur in Bihar and had his earlier education there. He then moved to Tekari Estate inGaya in Bihar. He later became an employee of the Raja of Benares (now Varanasi.) He

    started a printing press called "Lahari" which began the publication of a Hindi monthly,

    "Sudarshan", in 1898. One of the first short stories in Hindi, if not the very first, was

    "Indumati" (Pundit Kishorilal Goswami, author) which was published in 1900. The collection

    of short stories "Rajani aur Taare" (Anupam Prakashan, Patna, publishers) contains an

    extended history of the origin and evolution of the short story as a distinct literary form in the

    Hindi literature.

    Conclusion

    For its geographical location, natural beauty, mythological and historical importance, Bihar

    feels proud of the assets it has been gifted by time. And for its moral contributions in the

    fields of arts-literature and religion and spiritualism, it knows no competitors centuries old

    stories related to this land are told even today. The state is the same kingdom, which once

    upon a time ruled the country as well as the neighbouring countries . Many great rulers have

    lived here and it fills us with a sense of pride when we think of Bihar as the 'Karmabhumi' of

    Buddha and Mahavir. Bihar, to liven up the glorious tale of which land, words fall short.

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    BIHAR

    FAST FACTS:

    Area:

    173,877 sq km

    Religion:Hinduism

    (82.42%), Islam

    (14.80%),

    Others (2.78%)

    Maximum

    Temperature:

    30C

    Minimum

    Temperature:

    5C

    Capital: Patna

    Languages:

    Hindi, Maithili,

    Bhojpuri

    Best time to

    visit: October

    to March

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    Natural Resources

    Bihar lies in the tropical to sub tropical region. Rainfall here is the most significant factor in

    determining the nature of vegetation. Bihar has a monsoon climate with an average annual

    rainfall of 1200 mm.

    Forests

    The sub Himalayan foothill of Someshwar and Dun ranges in Champaran constitute another

    belt of moist deciduous forests. These also consists of scrub, grass and reeds. Here the rainfall

    is above 1,600 mm and thus promotes luxuriant Sal forests in the favoured areas. The hot and

    dry summer gives the deduous forests. The most important trees are Shorea Robusta (Sal),

    Shisham, Cedrela Toona, Khair, and Semal. This type of forests also occurs in Saharasa and

    Purnia districts.

    Fertile Land

    The topography of Bihar can be easily described as a fertile alluvial plain occupying the

    Gangetic Valley. The plain extends from the foothills of the Himalayas in the north to a few

    miles south of the river Ganges as it flows through the State from the west to the east. Rich

    farmland and lush orchards extend throughout the state. Following are the major crops:

    paddy, wheat, lentils, sugarcane, jute (hemp, related to the marijuana plant, but a source of

    tough fibers and "gunny bags"). Also, cane grows wild in the marshes of West Champaran.The principal fruits are: mangoes, banana, jack fruit and litchis. This is one the very few areas

    outside China which produces litchi.

    Water Resources

    Water like ground and mineral resources is of great significance as it provides means of

    drinking water for man and animals, irrigation for agriculture, industrial uses, production of

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    hydro-electricity, transportation and recreation etc. The importance of water is so immense

    that the people in ancient times worshipped it.

    Bihar is richly endowed with water resources, both the ground water resource and the surfacewater resource. Not only by rainfall but it has considerable water supply from the rivers

    which flow within the territory of the State. Ganga is the main river which is joined by

    tributaries with their sources in the Himalayas. Some of them are Saryu (Ghaghra), Gandak,

    Budhi Gandak, Bagmati, Kamla-Balan and Mahananda.

    There are some other rivers that start from the platue area and meet in Ganges or its associate

    rivers after flowing towards north. Some of them are Sone, Uttari Koyal, Punpun, Panchane

    and Karmnasha.

    There are several rivers in Bihar which contribute a lot to the peoples of Bihar. These rivers

    make the water available for irrigation purpose and also help in generating the hydro-thermal

    energy for the state. Apart from this they provide a medium for water transport, provide

    fishes for fishery industry and enrich the natural resources of state in many other ways.

    All the above rivers have their impact on the Bihar plain. State also has non-exhaustible

    source of ground water which is in use for drinking purposes, irrigation and industries.

    Mineral Production

    Steatite - 945 Tonnes

    Pyrites - 9,539 Tonnes

    Quartzite - 14,865 TonnesCrude Mica - 53 Tonnes

    Limestone - 4,78,000 Tonnes

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    INTRODUCTION:

    Bask in Bihar, the land of the Buddha and Mahavira that offers you multiplicity of history,

    architecture, eco-tourism, tribes, wild life, mines, minerals, fairs and festivals, art and crafts

    and an offbeat cuisine. Home to artists of the world-renowned Madhubani paintings, Bihar

    offers you spiritual holiday tourism at the site of enlightenment of the founder of Buddhism.

    TOURISM IN BIHAR

    The Vajrasan or Diamond Throne- lying between the Bodhi Tree and the temple, the actual

    spot where Buddha sat in meditation and attained supreme knowledge- is spectacular. A

    gilded Buddha smiles upon you from a niche in the wall of the temple, and his footsteps that

    are carved in stone hold flower offerings from devotes. An atmosphere of serenity and peace

    pervades in the atmosphere, and it is most likely that the strains of 'Budham Sharanam

    Gachhami' will be echoing in your mind on your way back from the trip. A holiday at the

    sacred town of Bodh Gaya is a unique experience. Not only because Lord Buddha attained

    Nirvana enlightenment here, but because Bihar is also a land of great antiquity and glorious

    history. If you are seeking greater insight into the Buddhist circuit or the tourism scenario of

    the state, you must visit Bodhgaya, also referred to as Buddhagaya. Here you must visit the

    Mahabodhi Temple, which is considered the most sacred Buddhist pilgrim place. It was

    under this blessed peepal tree that the founder of Buddhism attained supreme knowledge and

    evolved from Gautam, the prince of Kapilavastu to Lord Buddha. The temple is a highly

    frequented tourist spot, given the fact that Buddhism is today followed by almost one third of

    the total population of the world.

    Buddhism has somehow defined tourism in Bihar (the name Bihar is taken from Vihara - the

    residential complexes of Buddhist monks). Places like Nalanda, Rajgir, and Lauriya Areraj

    are closely linked with the times and life of Buddha and his followers. But, Bihar was also a

    great religious melting pot. The state was a birthplace of Mahavir - 23rd tirthankar of Jainism

    and the religion started here from Bihar only. Famous Hindu pilgrimage sites like Gaya and

    Areraj are as much famous as any other Hindu pilgrimage site in India. Come to Bihar and

    experience why India is considered as the spiritual guru of the world

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    Bihar, one of the few states in India where lack of

    infrastructure and facilities have restricted tourism to a very restricted number. Bihar

    otherwise has a wide variety of sights. The earliest known habitation in the entire Ganga

    basin is in this state. The world's most ancient highway, the nuclei of the first empire and

    second civilization of the Indian subcontinent, the earliest of the cave temples and the world's

    largest fair are some of the highlights which Bihar offers the tourist.

    However, early this century for ore and minerals, have been tamed for industry. The

    availability of local resources led the Tata Group to establish one of India's largest iron and

    steel factories at Jamshedpur, named after Jamshed ji Tata, founder of the industrial house of

    Tata. Energy for the factories is provided by a series of dams built on the Damodar River that

    flows through the Plateau.

    Bihar is also very important state for the Buddhist pilgrims who

    throng this state to visit sites associated with Lord Buddha. Bodhgaya, where Buddha

    attained enlightenment under a Bodhi Tree, Rajgir where he spent many years meditating,

    Nalanda - one of the most ancient Universities where most distinguished people, religious

    leaders, and astronomers visited or taught. Patna, earlier known as Patliputra, the capital of

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    Magadh Kingdom and the birth place of the tenth Sikh Guru, Govind Singh is another

    important city.

    TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

    Patna is a city abounding in the relics of the bygone ages. Takht Harmandir Saheb is of

    religious importance to the Sikhs and is believed to be the place of birth of the last Sikh guru,

    Govind Singh. The Jalan Museum with a rare collection of curios. Sher Shah's mosque in the

    heart of the city is a splendid example of Afghan architecture. Among the numerous mosques

    in Patna, Begum Hajjam's mosque stands as the oldest. Saif Khan's Madarsa mosque, built in

    1630, commands a magnificent view of the riverfront. Saif was married to Malika Bano, the

    elder sister of Mumtaz Mahal, the wife of emperor Shahjahan. Excavations at Kumhrar have

    yielded the remains of a Mauryan palace with sandstone pillars. One can still see Agam Kuan

    or the fathomless well, which was part of Ashoka's hell for prisoners. The famous Mahendru

    Ghat in today's Patna is the reminder of Mahendru (Ashoka's brother) who had sailed from

    this very Ghat to Ceylon in order to preach Buddhism. The Khuda Baksh Oriental library is a

    treasure trove of medieval manuscripts. The Patna Museum is noted for its collection of

    statues and a very old fossilized tree, 16 meters high. Close to the museum is the Gol Ghar,

    the 29 meter high beehive shaped granary constructed in 1786, following a terrible famine.

    The Patna Cemetery is a historically important European monument situated in what wasonce a Haveli (mansion) and is now a hospital. Some distance from the cemetery is the Padri

    ki Haveli, a Catholic church with an imposing faade.

    Thirty kilometers from Patna is Maner, a medieval stronghold of the Turks and the site

    of the shrines of Hazrat Makhdum Yahya Maneri and his son Shafruddin Ahmed Maneri.

    The remains of an ancient fort with massive cyclopean walls together

    with other sites amidst lush green surroundings of Rajgriha recreate the glory of the past.

    Until the discovery of Mohenjodaro and Harappa, this was believed to be the oldest

    architectural remains in India. The site is equally revered by the Jains, as their 24 Tirthankars

    are believed to have practiced austerities on the different hills of Rajgriha. The Jal Mandir at

    Pawapuri (the sinless city) marks the site where Vardhamana Mahavira (the 24th Tirthankar)

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    was cremated while Parasnath hill is associated with the Nirvana of the 23rd Tirthankar, Sri

    Parsvanath.

    Nalanda, in the heart of Bihar, stands as the world's most ancient seat of learning. The ruins

    confirm the university's ability to cater to the needs of 10,000 students until the 12th century

    AD. The excavations have yielded numerous monasteries, temples, stupas and statues of

    Buddha. The Vikramshila University was an important institution of Tantric Buddhism and

    there was a regular exchange of teachers between the two universities.

    Bodh Gaya houses the site of the sacred Mahabodhi tree where the Buddha attained

    enlightenment. Adjoining the tree is the high-spired Mahabodhi temple considered to be the

    most sacred shrine for Buddhists. Add to this the Hindu legend of Gaya, which was the nameof a demon that grew so powerful that the gods felt threatened. As a pre-condition to his

    death, he demanded that the area covered by his body should be one of the holiest spots of the

    world. This land is believed to be Gaya.

    Rajmahal is a medieval settlement on the eastern fringe of Bihar. It is believed to have been

    founded by Raja Man Singh, the Rajput general of Emperor Akbar. It was earlier a strategic

    place for the Bengal sultans who pitched their advance tent here before moving on to any

    military campaign.

    The picturesque mausoleum of Sher Shah at Sasaram, outdoes the Taj Mahal in size, with a

    dome that surpasses it by 13 feet. Also at Sasaram we find the mausoleum of Sher Shah's

    father, Hasan Shah Suri. No less picturesque is the tomb of Sher Shah's son, Salim Shah, built

    in the center of a lake. On the outskirts of the village is the tomb of Aliwal Khan, the chief

    architect working for Sher Shah. A few hours' drive from Sasaram takes one to the

    Rohtasgarh fort. In the words of Abul Fazal it is "a well defended paradise (fort) with no

    equal for strength and solidity." The fort, 28 miles in circumference, is a perfect platform for

    eco-tourism projects. It is perched high on the Kaimur hills and there are abundant springs

    and numerous monuments that bring to life the history of its Mughal and Afghan governors

    and still later the Britishers who almost destroyed the surviving parts.

    The Chotanagpur plateau spread over 34,000 square miles that encompass the southern half

    of Bihar, is one of the most fascinating places in India. There is no end to scenic attractions,

    waterfalls, deciduous forests, hills (rising up to 3,000 feet), plateaus (at an elevation of 1,000

    feet), valleys, wildlife, and of course the aboriginals, who predominate this region. Add to

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    this the salubrious climate that makes the region an ideal getaway.

    The oldest geological formation of India are found in the Chotanagpur plateau of Bihar that

    also stores a vast deposit of a variety of minerals that cater to national and international

    needs. Bihar, on an average accounts for half the total output of coal and mica, the whole of

    copper and about 45 per cent of the iron produced in India. It is also the only region in the

    country to have Uranium mines.

    Prominent places in Chotanagpur include Ranchi (2,140 feet), a picturesque hill station that

    inspired Tagore to compose a book of poems; Netarhat or the 'queen of Chotanagpur' is

    perched at 3,700 feet and offers beautiful sunset and sunrise views; Palamau is famous for its

    tropical forest and is rich in wildlife, and is the place where the world's first tiger census wasconducted in 1932. As of today, there are 45 tigers in the reserve and they are now said to be

    venturing out in search of new territories. No less interesting is the Hazaribagh Wildlife

    Sanctuary nestling at a low terrain (1,800 feet). Hazaribagh is also vying for a place in the

    international heritage list for its recent findings of rock paintings, caves, stone age tools and

    smelted iron slag that shows a much early advent of the Iron Age than the theorized

    Chalcolithic age. At another village in Hazaribagh, the archaeologists have unearthed densely

    packed layer of pottery shards that are identical to those found at Harappa.

    CITIES:

    Bihar Cities

    Bihar is a land of old historic cities. The capital of Bihar is Patna, a gateway to the Buddhist

    circuit in Bihar. Other major cities include Muzzafarpur, Gaya, Bodhgaya and Vaishali. An

    influence of Buddhist culture can be seen on the cities of Bihar. Ruled by the Lichchavis, the

    Gupta and the Mauryas, cities of Bihar had seen some glorious and royal days. Patna is the

    industrial hub of the state. Muzzafarpur is a major center for production of Litchis. Bodhgaya

    hosts the holy tree where Buddha got enlightened, while Nalanda is the site of the ancient

    Nalanda International University. Travel to this state of India, which boasts some most rich

    and glorious cities of ancient India.

    Patna Information

    Location: Patna is the capital city of Bihar, India.

    Tourist Attractions: Gol Ghar, Museum, Harmandirji, Khuda Baksh Oriental Library,

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    Kumhrar, Martyrs Memorial, Jalan Museum, Pathar Ki Masjid, Agam Kuan, Biological Park,

    Birla Mandir, Nawab Shahid-Ka-Maqbara, Pachim Darwaza, Padri-Ki-Haveli.

    Best Buys: Decorative pieces made out of stone, Bead-Jewellery, Tilcoot-a kind of sweet.

    Best Hangouts: An excursion to Kumhrar, a local village where excavations are going on to

    find out the hidden treasures of Mauryan and other dynasties.

    Best Activities: Take a boat ride in river Ganga and walk some part of Mahatma Gandhi

    Setu.

    Festivals: Chhatha, celebrated 6 days after Deepavali, is the most popular festival of Bihar.

    Pataliputra Mahotsav features parades, sports, dancing, and music.

    Nearest Tourist Destinations: Vaishali, Nalanda, Bodhgaya, Rajgir.

    When to Visit: February to April and August to November.

    About Patna

    Situated on the banks of the holy river Ganga, Patna, earlier known as Patliputra,

    is one of the most ancient cities of India. Capital of Bihar, Patna is known

    for its magnificent past and the historical buildings. Patna began as Pataliputra in

    the 5th century BC. In the 3rd century BC it became the capital of the Magad

    h kingdom and the seat of the Indian emperor Ashoka.

    Patna is the gateway to the Buddhist and Jain pilgrim centers of Vaishali, Rajgir, Nalanda,

    Bodhgaya and Pawapuri, all located in the state of Bihar. After India attained independence,

    Patna became the capital of Bihar. It has some very attractive tourist destinations. The

    Mahatma Gandhi Setu over river Ganga stretches for 7.5 Km and is among the longest

    bridges in the world. The Golghar, Har Mandir, Kumrahar are the major attractions in the

    city.

    Besides, it has long been a major agricultural center of trade, its most active exports being

    grain, sugarcane, sesame, and rice.

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    Major Tourist Attractions in Patna

    Golghar

    The huge, beehive structured building was built to store grains, following a terrible famine in

    1786. The 29 m high building offers a scenic view of river Ganga and Patna city. This

    granary was never used for the desired purpose.

    Museum

    The city museum is a collection of metal and stone sculptures of the Maurya and Gupta

    Periods, terracota figurines and archaeological finds from different sites in Bihar. It has the

    Ashes of the Buddha, image of Yakshi (3rd century BC), and a 16 m long fossilized tree.

    Har Mandir

    A holy shrine of Sikhs, this is said to be the second-most important Gurudwara in India. The

    Gurudwara was built by Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th guru of the Sikhs. Built in white

    marbles, with kiosks on the terraces, it consecrates the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh.

    Khuda Baksh Oriental Library

    One of the national libraries of India, it has a rare collection of Persian and Arabic

    manuscript. It also host paintings during Rajput and Mughal rule in India. A very unique

    collection, One-inch wide Quran is also kept here.

    Martyrs Memorial

    The memorial in front of the old secretariat, shows seven young men facing the bullets and

    sacrificing their lives during the '1942 Quit India movement'.

    Rajgir Information

    Location: Rajgir is situated 34 Km from Gaya and 102 km from Patna, Bihar.

    Tourist Attractions: Amaravana, Venuvana, Ajatashatru's Fort, Bimbisara's Jail, Swarna

    Bhandar, The Cyclopean Wall, Griddhakuta, Jain Temples, Hot Springs, Pippala Cave,

    Jarasandha Ka Akhada.

    Best Buys: Though the city has nothing unique to offer, but one can go for the local

    handicrafts.

    Best Hangouts: Enjoy a dip at the hot water springs, located at the foot of the Vaibhava Hill.

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    The source of hot water is the "Saptaparni Caves", up in the hills.

    Best Activities: Take the ropeway tour and see the glorious city of Rajgir.

    Festivals: The Malamasa Mela is celebrated every 3rd year (The Indian calendar every three

    years has a 13th month which is considered auspicious), and the Rajgir dance festival holds

    from Oct 24-26 every year.

    Nearest Tourist Destinations: Vaishali, Nalanda, Bodhgaya.

    When to Visit: February to April and August to November.

    About Rajgir

    Rajgir, "House of the King", is an important religious place

    for Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. This ancient town has reference in Mahabharata, Buddhist

    and Jain texts. Lord Buddha lived here in the sixth century BC while Vardhman Mahavir

    spent 14 years here. It was in Rajgir that Lord Buddha delivered some of his famous sermons.

    King Bimbisara of the Magadha Kingdom got converted here. A small town, Rajgir is

    witness to a glorious and legendary past. The historical monuments here presents the real

    scene of the glorious past. The monuments are said to be built by the business class who

    devoted themselves to Buddha. Jivaka, the legendary physician of Magadha kingdom, also

    resided here and once served Buddha for illness. Lately, the Japanese have built a Stupa on

    top of the Ratnagiri hill, linked by a rope way. It was here that the teachings of Buddha were

    penned down for the first time. Rajgir also has the Nipponzan Myohoji, the Japanese temple,

    and the Centaur Hokke Club which offers some traditional facilities to Japanese pilgrims.

    Major Tourist Attractions in RajgirAmaravana (Jivaka's Mango Garden)

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    Jivaka, the royal physician during the times of Ajatshatru and Bimbisara used to practice

    here. It is said that lord Buddha was also brought here for a cure of a wound.

    Swarna Bhandar

    The twin Rock-cut caves, are supposed to be the doorway to the treasury of King Bimbisara.

    One of the cave is said to be the guard room. While the other is supposed to be the passage to

    king Bimbisara's treasury. The treasure, according to folklore, is still intact.

    The Cyclopean Wall

    The 40 km long wall encircles ancient Rajgir. Built from massive pieces of stones, it was

    constructed before the Mauryan rule.

    Griddhakuta (Vulture's Peak)

    At the top of Ratnagiri hill, where Lord Buddha preached many inspiring sermons, a Peace

    Pagoda has been built by the Buddha Sangh of Japan. There is a ropeway which takes around

    8 minutes to take tourists on the top. It gives a splendid view of Rajgir.

    Jain Temples

    There are more than 25 Jain temples around Rajgir. Situated on mountains, they are

    approached easily by those who love trekking.

    Hot Springs

    The hot springs are a major tourist attractions. They are at the foot of the Vaibhava Hill. The

    hot water is supposed to come from the 'Saptaparni Caves', situated on top of the hill.

    Brahmaputra is the hottest spring with water temperature being 45 degree C. Separate bathing

    places for men and women have been organized.

    Vaishali Information

    Location: Vaishali is situated 35 Km from Hazipur and 55 km from Patna, Bihar.

    Tourist Attractions: Ashokan Pillar, Bawan Pokhar Temple, Buddha Stupa-I, Buddha

    Stupa-II, Raja Vishal ka Garh, Shanti Stupa, Kundupur, Coronation Tank.

    Best Buys: The city has not much to offer, but 100 km ahead is Madhubani, famous for its

    paintings with same name.

    Festivals: The Vaishali Mahotsav in April celebrates the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira.

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    Nearest Tourist Destinations: Patna, Rajgir, Bodhgaya, Madhubani.

    When to Visit: The best time to visit this place is October to March.

    About Vaishali

    One of Buddha's favourite resort, Vaishali, is said to be named after King Vishal, a ruler

    during the times of Ramayana. There exists a large, but a ruined fort, which is believed to be

    built by King Vishal. The city was ruled by the Lichchavis till 6th century BC. The Lichchavi

    state is said to be among world's first republics. The city was

    a major industrial center and an important town under the control of the Lichchavis.

    Ajatshatru, the great Magadh King, annexed Vaishali in the fifth century BC and after that

    Vaishali gradually lost its glory and power.

    Vaishali, the birthplace of Lord Vardhman Mahavira, last Tirthankar of Jainism, is equally

    sacred for the Buddhists. Lord Buddha gave his last preaching in this city and announced his

    Mahaprayan. In tribute to Buddha, king Ashoka erected a pillar (Famous lion pillar) here. 100

    years after the death of Lord Buddha, the second great Buddhist council was held here. Two

    stupas were made in remembrance of the event. Today Vaishali is a small town and is

    surrounded by mango and banana groves.

    Major Tourist Attractions in Vaishali

    Ashokan Pillar

    The Lion Pillar at Kolhua, was built by Emperor Ashoka. Made of single piece of red

    sandstone, the pillar is capped by a 18 m high bell shaped capital. On the top is kept a life-size figure of lion.

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    Bawan Pokhar Temple

    A Hindu temple, Bawan Pokhar temple is situated on the banks of a lake called Bawan

    Pokhar. The old temple, built during Pala period, enshrines beautiful images of Hindu Gods

    and Goddesses.

    Buddha Stupa 1 and 2

    The Buddha Stupas were created in the name of the second Buddhist council. The outer stupa

    has a stone box, which has one-eighth of lord Buddha's ashes. The inner stupa was excavation

    in 1958 and it also held a stone box containing some part the ashes of the Lord Buddha.

    Raja Vishal ka Garh

    The fort of King Vishal is in ruins today. A huge platform here, which has a circumference of

    about one Kilometre and walls nearly 2m high with a 43m wide moat, is said to be the

    parliament house of King Vishal. More than seven thousands representatives could stand here

    to discuss the issues.

    Coronation Tank

    An excavated site, this place is believed as an ancient parliament house of the Lichchavi

    government. The water of the tank was used to anoint the selected representatives. It is

    located near the Raja Vishal ka Garh.

    Nalanda Information

    Location: Nalanda is situated 90 Km from Patna, Bihar.

    Tourist Attractions: The Nalanda University Archaeological Complex, The Nalanda

    Archaeological Museum, Nava Nalanda Mahavihara, Hieun Tsang Memorial Hall, Silao,

    Surajpur Baragaon.

    Best Buys: Buy the famous local sweet 'Khaja', from Silao, a village between Nalanda and

    Rajgir.

    Festivals: The Chhath Puja is celebrated 6 days after Diwali, in mid November. Buddha

    Jayanti, celebrated in April, to mark the birth, enlightenment and nirvana of lord Buddha.

    Nearest Tourist Destinations: Vaishali, Patna, Bodhgaya, Rajgir.

    When to Visit: The best time to visit this place is October to March.

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    About Nalanda

    Nalanda, a part of the Buddhist circuit, is famous for the ancient International Monastic

    University. Established in 5th century BC by the Gupta Emperors, it was a famous learning

    centers in ancient times. The university had centers for studies in Buddhism, Vedas, Logic,

    Grammar, Medicine, Meta-Physics, Prose Composition and Rhetoric. Lord Buddha and Lord

    Mahavira have also taught here. The university library had a mammoth collection of 9

    million volumes. The university remains are scattered around an area of 14 hectares. Though

    a large part of the university has been explored, a huge portion remains unexcavated. It is

    believed that the university could accommodate 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers easily.

    Hieun Tsang, the renowned Chinese traveler was also involved with the university foe 12

    years. There is a monument built here in his memory. In 12th century AD, the whole

    university complex was destroyed by Bakhtiar Khilji, a Turkish Invader. There is a museum

    where the rare collections of the glorious days can be seen. In 1951 an international center for

    Buddhist studies was founded. Another modern institution is the Nava Nalanda Mahavir

    Research Centre treasuring many rare manuscripts.

    Major Tourist Attractions in Nalanda

    The Nalanda University Archaeological Complex

    Total excavated area of the complex is about 14 hectares. The university was built inKushana style of architecture. There are huge gardens, bronze statues and red-brick edifices

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    all around. There are various temples here, of which temple no.3 is most interesting, as it has

    the statues of Lord Buddha in various Mudras (poses). There is a half broken statue of Lord

    Buddha in the temple no.1.

    The Nalanda Archaeological Museum

    Established in 1971, the museum has a beautiful collections bronze statues of Buddha, Hindu

    Gods and Goddesses. The collections here were found during excavation of the university

    site. The museum has rare manuscripts, copper plates, stone inscriptions, coins, pottery and a

    12th century AD sample of burnt rice. Opens at 10 am till 5 pm. It is closed on Friday.

    Nava Nalanda Mahavihara

    This new international study centre for Buddhism and Pali literature was set up in 1951. It

    offers research works on the ancient Pali language and Budhism.

    Hieun Tsang Memorial Hall

    Hieun Tsang was a famous Chinese traveler, who came India during 5th century AD to study

    the social and political conditions. He devoted 12 years in the ancient university as a teacher

    as well as student. The memorial hall was built in his memory.

    Bodhgaya Information

    Location: Bodhgaya is situated 16 Km from Gaya and 105 km from Patna, Bihar.

    Tourist Attractions: The Bodhi Tree, Mahabodhi Temple, Vajrasana, Ancient Railings,

    Chankaramana, Animeshlochana, Ratnagar, Lotus Tank, Gaya, Barabar Cave, The Karan

    Chaupa cave, Tibetan Monastery, Myanmar Monastery, Chinese Monastery.

    Best Buys: Tilkuta (a sweet), souvenirs made of stone.

    Best Activities: Learn yoga & meditation.

    Best Hangouts: The Monasteries.

    Festivals: The Buddha-Jayanti is celebrated every year in April as this date marks the birth of

    Lord Buddha.

    Nearest Tourist Destinations: Vaishali, Nalanda, Gaya, Patna.

    When to Visit: The best time to visit Bodhgaya is during winter October-March. December

    and January is the time when the place is filled with tourists from all around the world.

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    About Bodhgaya

    A vital Buddhist center, Bodhgaya, is the most sacred place for Buddhists. Some 2500 years

    ago, Prince Siddhartha got enlightened here and became Buddha (The enlightened one). The

    prince wandered for 6 years in search of peace. Finally he achieved the desired peace of mind

    here, beneath the holy Bodhi tree and thus was born Buddhism.

    Nearly 250 years after the enlightenment, King Ashoka visited the place and founded the

    Mahabodhi Temple. A monastery was also founded by Ashoka which had Vajrasana, the seat

    of enlightenment. The 52 m high temple has beautiful design. The temple is made on a square

    platform, with four pillars around the corners of the platform. The 1700 years old image of

    Buddha inside the temple is in the Bhumisparsha Mudra (Touching the ground). Devout

    Buddhists and tourists from all over the world visit Bodhgaya, to study Buddhism and the art

    of meditation, or to pay homage to Lord Buddha.

    A small and quite town, Bodhgaya lies 16 Km from the holy city of Gaya. Gaya is a famous

    Hindu Pilgrimage, where people go to offer oblations for the salvation of their dead

    forefathers.

    Major Tourist Attractions in Bodhgaya

    The Bodhi Tree

    The Bodhi Tree is the famous tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment. He

    meditated under the tree continuously for next one week. King Ashoka, after conversion toBuddhism, surrounded the tree with 3m high stone wall. The present Bodhi Tree is most

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    probably the fifth descendant of the original tree, as the original tree got destroyed. But the

    followers view the tree as the actual Buddha.

    Mahabodhi Temple

    The Mahabodhi Temple stands east to the Bodhi Tree. This huge temple is said to be

    constructed by King Ashoka. Shaped like a pyramid, it rises to 170 ft. The statue of Lord

    Buddha in the temple is made of black stone. The stupas in the temple were constructed

    during past 2500 years.

    Vajrasana

    The Vajrasana is a stone platform, under the Bodhi tree, on which Lord Buddha attained

    enlightenment. Vajrasana means the seat of stability.

    Gaya

    Situated 16 Km from Bodhgaya, this holy city is a place

    where Hindus

    offer oblation for salvation of their forefathers. The temple of Vishnupad

    on the bank of river Falgu attracts a very large number of pilgrims.

    Barabar Cave

    The Barabar and Nagarjuni Hills are situated about 41 km. from Bodhgaya. There are total

    seven rock-cut caves here, of which four are in the Barabar hills. Barabar Caves carvings bear

    the details about Buddha's life.

    FAIRS & FESTIVALS

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    Though Bihar celebrates almost all the north India festivals, it has a festival that is unique to

    the state. Chhath is the most important festival of the state and is celebrated six days after

    Diwali, when people from all castes can stand together in the river and worship the sun god.

    The rituals related to Chhath are very stringent and there are several folktales, songs, and

    special sweets that make this festival a unique experience.

    Another unique ritual confined to Bihar is the Pind-daan performed

    by the Gayawals in Gaya. It is considered to be an obligation of all devout Hindus to visit this

    place after the death of their parents, a mandatory rite believed to bring salvation to the

    departed souls. Though the pind-daan can be performed almost any time of the year, people

    prefer to do it during Pitrapaksha, which is the period just before Navratri and generally falls

    in September.

    In the summer month of June, the people of Mithila in the village of Saurath organize a

    unique marriage mart in a mango orchard. During this fair, parents whose children are of

    marriageable age come here and the Mithila Brahmins settle a record number of marriages

    during this time.

    Sonepur is the venue of a grand cattle fair held in the month of November. The fair is ranked

    as the world's largest and it is not simply confined to animal trade but numerous shows and

    performances are also a part of the fair. Visitors also pay obeisance at the nearby temple of

    Hariharnath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

    BIHAR HERITAGE

    Bihar is rich in culture and heritage. The ancient cities of Bihar boasts of some very rich and

    treasured sites of ancient India. The state of Bihar houses some very exquisite heritage sites

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    from the ancient history of India, which speak volumes for its glorious past. Some of the

    heritage sites here dates back to the times of Ramayana and Mahabharata. The remains of

    Rajgir are the oldest architectural remains after the Harappa and Mohenjodaro remains in

    India. Bodhgaya is home to the tree where Buddha got enlightened. There is temple in

    Bodhgaya, constructed by Ashoka, in memoir of Buddha. Nalanda is home to the sites of the

    ancient Buddhist International University. Vaishali is the place where Ashoka made the

    famous lion-pillar. Vaishali is very holy place for the Buddhists. Be it the Hindu Pilgrimages

    sites, the Buddhist monasteries or the ancient Jain sites, Bihar is one most treasured

    destination in India with numerous places of interest.

    BIHAR WILDLIFE

    The worlds first tiger census had been carried out at Palamau in 1932. Today, Bihar boasts

    of 2 national parks and 21 sanctuaries. These include the countrys only hideout for wolves, a

    sanctuary for dolphins, a crocodile centre, a welcomejheel,or lake, which is home to an

    infinite variety of birds migrating from Central Asia.

    The inception of the history of wildlife in Bihar coincides with the legislation of the Private

    Forests Act that restricted the zamindars ownership of forests (a zamindar is a member of

    the landed gentry). Thus, the government acquired 26,000sq km of jungle that was in danger

    of rapidly losing its fauna. Until then, Rajas (rulers) and zamindars indulged in lavish

    hunting orgies simply to outdo each other. The Maharaja ofSurguja (around Palamau) alone

    was responsible for hunting down 1,150 tigers.

    The Palamau Tiger Reserve is spread over an area of 1026sq km in the Chotanagpur Plateau.

    The dense and dry deciduous forest of Palamau is replete with the finest bamboo groves, sal,

    mahua, bel and khair trees. The sixteenth century fort alongside the Auranga River adds a

    touch of history to this forest. The other rivers that drain Palamau are the Koel and Burha that

    eventually empty themselves into the famous Sone River.

    Palamau shot to fame way back in 1932 for the tiger censusthe first of its kind in the world

    that was carried out here. In 1974, it became one of the countrys earliest tiger reserves. The

    core area of the sanctuary has been declared as the Betla National Park(232 sq km), famous

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    for its wild elephants, tigers, gaurs (Indian wild ox), chitals (spotted deer), sambars (Asiatic

    deer), panthers, wild dogs and boars.

    Betla is easily accessible by road. It is 25km from Daltonganj and 175km from Ranchi, the

    nearest airport. The best time to visit Betla is in October-November and February-March. For

    accommodation, one can opt for B.S.T.D.Cs Ban Vihar or the Forest Departments Rest

    Houses, besides other tourist lodges, cottages and dormitories.

    The Valmiki National Park(335sq km) has been created amidst 544sq km of the Valmiki

    Sanctuary in the West Champaran district of Bihar, bordering Nepal. The magnificent

    Himalayas provide a backdrop to the sanctuary. Adjacent to the sanctuary, in the forests of

    Nepal, is the historic Valmiki Ashram in the Chitwan National Parkof Nepal. The One-

    horned rhinoceros and Indian bison often migrate from Chitwan to Valmikinagar. The forest

    here is a mix of extensive Savannah lands and swamp forests. The forest in the sanctuary is

    rich in Bhabar-Dun sal, dry Siwalik sal, khair, cane etc. The extensive forest area of

    Valmikinagar was owned by the Bettiah Raj and Ramanagar Raj until early 1950s. Tigers

    dominate the wildlife landscape while other attractions include chitals, sambars, nilgais,

    leopards, hyenas, Indian civets, Jungle cats, Hog deer and wild dogs. As far as the density of

    the tiger population is concerned, Valmikinagar ranks fourth in the state.

    Valmikinagar can be reached via Bettiah, with Patna as the nearest airport (105km). The best

    time to visit Valmikinagar is between October and June. A number of rest houses manned by

    the Irrigation Department are usually available.Rich in black bucks and nilgais, the Kaimur

    Wildlife Sanctuary (134sq km) is the largest and one of the best faunal areas of Bihar. Its

    other wildlife denizens include chinkaras, tigers, leopards, hyenas, sloth bears, etc.

    In the heart of Bihar lies the Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary (36sq km), bordered by a stretch of

    small historic hills associated with Jain and Buddhist history. A typical monsoon climate

    prevails over this region full of tropical dry deciduous forests. The sanctuary is rich in

    leopards, hyenas, barking deer and nilgais. The neighbouring Gautam Buddha Sanctuary

    (259sq km) in Gaya has similar climes. Further south, en route to Hazaribagh is the Koderma

    Wildlife Sanctuary (177sq km) situated on the Patna-Ranchi highway. Besides its rich

    wildlife, the place is famous for its scenic beauty. The most popular one amongst these is the

    Fhwajadhari Hillock.

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    The Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary (186sq km) and its surroundings continued to be the

    royal reserve of the Raja of Ramgarh until 1950. The densely forested plateau of Hazaribagh

    is rich in flora, and fauna that include leopards, Jungle cats, sambars, nilgais, Barking deer,

    chitals, wild boars, wolves, etc. Numerous observation towers in the sanctuary makes it easier

    to take a closer look at the wildlife. The jungles in Hazaribagh are teeming with a variety of

    trees like the sal, asan, dhow, salai, kend, and bamboo, to name just a handful from a long

    list. Like Koderma, Hazaribagh too is full of picturesque spots and offers leisure activities

    like boating at Salparni. In the heart of Hazaribagh is the KunharyHill, now referred to as the

    Canary Hill. Dont expect to see canaries but maybe you could settle for the similar looking

    Golden Orioles.

    Hazaribagh is accessible by the National Highway 33, while the nearest railhead is the

    Hazaribagh Road. Ranchi, the nearest airport is 107km away. Besides cottages and

    dormitories at Rajaderwa, Forest Rest Houses are available at Rajaderwa, Salparni and

    Harhad. Halfway between the Betla National Park and Hazaribagh is the Lawalong Sanctuary

    that was once a prized place for hunters who gathered here in a big way for big game.

    Close to Bhagalpur, the Bhimbandh Sanctuary (682sq km) is yet another home to a variety of

    wildlife. Besides tigers, panthers, wild boars, sambars, chitals and nilgais, the forests here are

    famous for hot water springs said to contain traces of radioactive matter.

    In most wildlife sanctuaries primarily meant for mammals flourishes a spectacular bird life

    that often goes unnoticed. However, there are sanctuaries exclusive to birds where reptiles go

    unnoticed. The Kanwar Lake at Begusarai, a dream spot in the words of the great

    ornithologist, the late Dr Salim Ali, is one such haven. It is three times the size of the

    Bharatpur Sanctuary. The lake is home to about 106 species of resident birds and around 60

    migratory birds that come all the way from Central Asia in winter.

    The Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary in Rajmahal Hills, incorporating the Pataura and Berhale

    lakes, is home to a variety of birds including different mynas, brahminy kites, fishing eagles,

    hose swifts and palm swifts flying at dizzying speeds. The Paradise-fly catcher is a wonder to

    behold as it flies, with its tail describing a wave-like movement.

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    Scattered with historical ruins and monuments, the Rajmahal has a lot of unique fossils. Some

    of the species unearthed here have also been found in the Jurassic rocks of distant countries

    like South Africa and Australia. The northern localities have yielded fossils in the form of

    impressions, while petrified fossils have been collected from the southern tracts.

    Other bird sanctuaries in Bihar are located at Topchanchi(9sq km), 35km from the mining

    town ofDhanbad. Udaipur (9sq km) in Champaran is noted for the flow of migratory birds

    including pochards, red crested pochards and coots. Resident birds include bronze winged

    jacanas, pond herons, egrets, swamp partridges, etc. The Nagi DamSanctuary (1.9sq km)

    near Jhajha is the smallest sanctuary in the state and also a place to spot migratory birds.

    15km from Patna, Danapur is also a significant shelter for migratory birds, especially

    janghils (open billed storks).

    Wallace, a British naturalist and explorer maintained that the innumerable animal species

    were not distributed arbitrarily around the world, but that each major region had its own

    zoological character. Bihar has its share of the rich Indian diversity of nature, where a good

    number of animals, birds and reptiles have helped uphold the image of the state as a wildlife

    haven.

    Chitals and sambars, often depicted as an integral component of the Indian jungle scenery,

    were once the largest group of animals in Bihar, and could be found almost everywhere.

    Today chitals are confined to sanctuaries at Palamau, Hazaribagh, Gaya, Champaran and

    Monghyr, while sambars are concentrated around Palamau, Hazaribagh, Monghyr, Koderma

    and Parasnath. The Birsa Mrig Vihar at Kalamati (23km from Ranchi) is a breeding farm for

    these two species of deer that have multiplied considerably in the past six years. April-May is

    the best time to look out for chitals with well-developed antlers. Moreover, it is around this

    time of the year that they move in groups.

    The smaller species like Hog deer once overran the Gangetic valley. They do not have

    beautiful white spots like the chitals and are rarely seen in herds. Chasing the hog deer was a

    popular sport among the indigo planters during the British Raj. Reclaiming grassy land for

    agriculture contributed to the factors that nearly led to the extinction of this deer. The

    Valmikinagar Sanctuary in Champaran is the only place in Bihar where one can locate the

    hog deer today. Unlike the hog deer, the barking deer is widely found in the sanctuaries of

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    Dalma, Rajgir, Topchanchi, Lawalong, Udaipur, Koderma and Parasnath. The smallest in the

    deer familythe mouse deer (Indian Chevrotain) is not rare, although it is certainly too shy

    and retiring to be easily spotted. Its brown coat helps the tiny creature camouflage itself.

    However, you could try your luck at the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary.

    Tigers in Bihar were once on the brink of extinction. However, the persistent and concerted

    efforts ofProject Tiger saved the situation. The number of tigers at the Betla National Park

    was as dismal as 22 in 1974. By 1984 it had multiplied to 62. Once again it has dropped to

    50. Officials however believe that tigers often migrate to neighbouring states. Tigers are

    found in almost all the sanctuaries in Bihar, but their largest concentrations are at the

    Palamau Tiger Rerserve and the Valmiki Wildlife Sanctuary in Champaran.

    Despite its sleek coat and extraordinary hunting prowess, the panther still seems to be

    shadowed by the image of the tiger and the lion. However, most wildlife enthusiasts feel that

    this graceful animal certainly outsmarts the tiger, and at times appears fiercer than the lion.

    Panthers can be seen at the Hazaribagh, Valmiki, Bimbandh, Topchanchi and Lawalong

    Wildlife Sanctuaries.

    Wolves do not rate too high on the wildlife popularity chart, though at one time, hunting

    wolves was at par with hunting lions and tigers, especially with royalty. Wolves love to live

    and hunt in packs and the group is led by a dominant pair. Despite the animals ability to

    adapt to the changing environment, its number has greatly diminished. Thanks to the efforts

    made by the Mahuadhar Wolf Sanctuary(63sq km, close to the Palamau Tiger Reserve), the

    number of wolves in and around Hazaribagh, Gaya and Palamau has risen.

    Elephants, the largest living land mammals are confined to the Palamau and Singhbum

    districts in Bihar. It was believed that there were no elephants in Bihar till the end of the

    nineteenth century, and that they suddenly appeared around 1920. However, medieval history

    is replete with references to elephants from Bihar. The Mughals loved to acquire elephants

    from this region. In the Makhzan-i-Afghani there is a precise reference to a white elephant,

    Shyam Chandra owned by the tribal king of Palamau. The elephant had a peculiar habit of

    not throwing dust upon his head. The Afghans reckoned this to be a symbol of power that

    could help pave their way to the throne of Delhi. Thus, Sher Shah Suri, the Afghan invader,

    forced the king to surrender along with his elephant.

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    Close to Jamshedpur, the Dalma Sanctuary (193sq km) is the best elephant habitat in Bihar.

    The pachyderms love to spend their summer here. Unlike Palamau that usually reels under a

    scorching sun, it continues to be pleasant at Dalma with temperatures mostly under 300C.

    Elephants migrate to this sanctuary because of the availability of water during summer. The

    next best choice for getting the closest possible view of elephants is the Betla National Park,

    and the most appropriate time for doing this would be Feb-March.

    One of the boldest and biggest denizens of the jungle, gaurs prefer to remain close to

    elephants as they love to share the clumps pulled down by the tall tuskers. Gaurs usually

    move in herds except for the monsoon when they disperse and often fall prey to tigers.

    The black buck, one of the fastest animals, also known for its beautiful corkscrew horns, has

    not been as lucky as the chital while adapting to the changing environment. Today black

    bucks have survived only in Bhojpur and are confined to the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary.

    Wild dogs, often held responsible for the depredation of wildlife, are confined to Hazaribagh

    and Palamau sanctuaries. It is said that once a pack of wild dogs enters a forest, all wild

    animals, including tigers, leave it. The dogs consume sambar fawns, chitals and almost all

    herbivores in sight. In fact, wild dogs are despised even by hunters who hold them

    responsible for scaring game away.

    Muggers and gharialsare the two species of crocodiles found in Bihar. With the receding

    water levels of the Kosi River, the number ofgharials (gavial) has greatly diminished.

    However, going by earlier reports from the village, numerous gharials cruise along with the

    floodwater and arrive at Madhepura town. Though gharials are found in the Ganges and the

    Gandak River, they mainly abound on the banks of the Kosi. Muggers (marsh crocodiles)

    have a wider distribution, as they inhabit stagnant water like jheels, reservoirs and rivers with

    slow currents. People at bathing ghats are always wary of these animals. The Karmanasa

    River in Rohtas, the Mohana River in Hazaribagh and the Bhera River near Ranchi are said to

    be infested with muggers. The Mutta Mugger BreedingCentre near Ranchi took off with

    three muggers from Bihar and two from Madras. Today the count has touched nearly fifty!

    Dolphins were once popular in the Ganges, though they are rare today. The 50km stretch of

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    the Ganges from Sultanganj to Kahalgaon has been declared the Vikramshila Gangetic

    DolphinSanctuary. Zoologists from Patna University claim to have sighted about 40 dolphins

    in the sanctuary.

    NATIONAL PARKS AND WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES:

    Palamau Tiger ReservePalamau Tiger Reserve is located within the civil

    administrative district of Palamau in the South

    Chhotanagpur plateau of Bihar. The area is prone to

    severe droughts, average rainfall varying between

    700 to 900 mm.

    The total area is 928 sq. kms, and the core area 213

    sq. kms.

    Palamau is situated within the lndo-Malayan realm

    and is rich in flora and fauna and amongst the

    predators besides the tiger are leopards, wolves, wild

    dogs and jungle cats. Sloth bear, four horned

    antelope and mouse dear are some of the herbivores.

    There are 107 villages in the buffer, 3 in the

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    core with a human population of 65,000 and a livestock population of 45,000. The core is

    distributed in 2 parts, the actual core and the recently inducted 'Satellite core'. The core area

    was declared a National Park in September, 1989. The Sanctuary was brought under Project

    Tiger in 1973 and is among the first 9 such Tiger Reserves of the country.

    The western part of the Reserve is composed of dry deciduous forests and the other part

    shows characters of moist mixed deciduous nature. The entire area has a good distribution of

    bamboo breaks. The herbarium recently prepared by the Tiger Reserve authorities records a

    good number of medicinal plants.

    The lush landscape consists of stately Sal in the valley and lower slopes, and dry deciduous

    forests on the upper slopes. There is also abundant bamboo and scattered open grassy patches

    are common too. An estimated 44 tigers inhabit this reserve.

    Tiger, leopard, spotted deer, sambar, barking deer, wolf, wild dog, elephant, mouse deer,

    pangolin, four-horned antilope, ratel etc. Palamau was one of the initial nine Tiger Reserves

    launched in 1973. Prior to this the management of these forests was highly commercialised,

    with extensive grazing and frequent fires

    Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary

    107 km from Ranchi. The best time to visit is February - March and October-November.

    Lawalong Wildlife Sanctuary

    100 km from Gaya. The best time to visit is October-June.

    Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary

    10 km from Jamshedpur. The best time to visit is October-June.

    Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary

    102 km from Patna. The best time to visit is October-June.

    Topchanchi Wildlife Sanctuary

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    100 km from Bettiah. The best time to visit is October-June.

    Kabar Lake Bird Sanctuary

    22 km from Begusarai. The best time to visit is NovemberMarch