Bihar Museum is one of the most renowned museums in India. Located in the city of Patna in Bihar, this museum is a must-visit for anyone who wants to know more about the history and culture of Bihar. The museum houses numerous artefacts, sculptures and paintings depicting ancient Indian culture. It also has a library and a research centre for further studies on the state's culture, art and history.
The museum is divided into two sections - the historical and the contemporary. The historical section includes artefacts and sculptures from the Mughal, Hindu and Buddhist periods and several sculptures from the Gupta and Maurya periods. The current section houses artworks from the modern period.
One can also explore the many galleries with sculptures, paintings, coins and seals of the past. The museum also houses several manuscripts and archives related to the history of Bihar.
Apart from the museum, there are many other places to visit in Bihar. Some of the popular tourist spots are the Buddhist pilgrimage sites of Bodhgaya, Rajgir and Nalanda, the ancient Hindu temples of Vaishali and Patna, the famous Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, the ruins of the ancient city of Vaishali, and the ruins of the Mauryan dynasty at Patna.
There are numerous parks and sanctuaries in Bihar for those interested in wildlife and nature. The Valmiki Tiger Reserve is one of the most popular wildlife parks in the state. It is home to various flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, gaur, sloth bears and many more.
The Barabar Caves are also a must-visit. Located near Gaya, these caves are one of the oldest rock-cut caves in the world. They were built by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. The caves have inscriptions and sculptures of the Buddha and his disciples.
For those who want to explore the wilderness, there are several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Bihar. Some popular are the Valmiki National Park, the Gautam Buddha Wildlife Sanctuary, the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, the Valmiki Tiger Reserve, and the Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
Bihar is also home to some of India's most spectacular religious sites. The Mahabodhi Temple at Bodhgaya is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. The temple complex includes the Mahabodhi tree, which is said to be the place where the Buddha attained enlightenment. The Sun Temple at Deo is another important religious site, and it is said to be where the Sun God Surya worshipped Lord Shiva.
Around 2.5 km from Bihar Museum, Golghar is an iconic historical site in Patna. It is a massive granary built during the British Raj and offers a panoramic view of the city from its top. Visitors can climb Around the scenic vistas.
Situated approximately 3 km from Bihar Museum, Patna Museum is another significant museum worth exploring. It houses an extensive collection of artefacts, sculptures, and paintings, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Bihar. The museum also has a section dedicated to archaeological finds from the ancient city of Pataliputra.
Located about 4 km artefacts Museum, Gandhi Ghat is a serene riverside memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. It is situated on the banks of the River Ganges and offers a peaceful ambience for visitors to pay homage to and enjoy the views.
Situated approximately 7 km from Bihar Museum, Kumhrar is an archaeological site that dates back to the ancient Mauryan period. Excavations at Kumhrar have revealed the remains of a palace and pillars from the reign of Emperor Ashoka. It's an intriguing place to explore for history enthusiasts.
Located around 100 km from Bihar Museum, Nalanda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important Buddhist learning centre from ancient times. Visitors can explore the ruins of Nalanda University, visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum, and immerse themselves in the rich history and spirituality of the region.