Bihar, a state in eastern India, is a treasure trove of historical and spiritual heritage, boasting an array of ancient temples that beckon travelers from across the globe. These temples, steeped in mythological tales and architectural grandeur, offer a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Indian culture and spirituality. From the footsteps of enlightenment-seeking pilgrims to the sanctums of divine deities, Bihar’s temples are not just places of worship but are also emblematic of the state’s profound historical significance and its pivotal role in the development of Buddhism and Jainism. In this guide, we will journey through the top 10 temples in Bihar, each with its unique allure, promising an enlightening exploration of faith, architecture, and history.
List of the top 10 Temple to see in Bihar
1. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya
Mahabodhi Temple, the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Bodhgaya is a holy place for all those who are in search of spiritual peace. This temple is situated on the banks of the river the Niranjana River in Bodhgaya, Bihar. The temple was originally built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC.
It was later renovated by the British in the 1880s. The 180 feet multilayered pyramidical shape comprises sculptures depicting the life of Lord Buddha. Never miss the chance to view the famous Bodhi tree.
Throughout the year, but the best period is November to February.
Mahabodhi Temple Visitor Information:
- Location: Bodh Gaya, Gaya, Bihar
- Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
- Entry Fees: No entry fee, but you have to pay INR 100 for camera.
2. Vishnupad Mandir
The Vishnupad Temple is at 100 feet high architectural masterpiece of gray granite. This temple has a unique feature; the footprints of Lord Vishnu have been kept for worship. People from across India gather during Pitra Paksha to perform a ritual, called “Pind Dana”of departed souls.
Vishnupad Temple Visitor Information:
- Location: Vishnupad Rd, Chand Chaura, Gaya
- Timings: 5 AM to 8 PM
- Entry Fees: No entry fee, but one should be a little cautious in dealing with pundits
Also Read: The Rajgir Glass Bridge Experience: A Visitor’s Guide
3. Mangala Gauri Temple
Mangala Gauri Temple is one of the 18 Shakti Peethas in India. It is believed to be the epicenter of the commitment of the ladies. The temple has its mentions in the Puranas, where it is dedicated to Sati. The Goddess Maa Mangla is worshiped as the manifestation of kindness. Locals believe that the body of Sati fell here and is worshipped in the form of breasts.
Mangala Guari Temple Visitor Information:
- Location: Mangla Gauri Mandir Rd, Shakti Peetham, Gaya
- Timings: 06:00 AM to 08:00 PM
- Entry Fees: No entry fee
4. Jal Mandir, Pawapuri
The Jal Mandir made up of gorgeous white marble is dedicated to the 24th Tirthankara Lord Mahavira. Locals believe that Mahavira achieved Nirvana at this place. Suprised, how the temple got its name? The temple is in the center of a water-body.
Located in Pawapuri, in the Nalanda district in Bihar, Jal Mandir is just 19 km from Rajgir and approximately 100 Kms in the capital Patna.
Winters are the best time to visit the Jal Mandir in Pawapuri.
Pawapuri Jal Mandir Temple Visitor Information:
- Location: Pavauri, Rajgir, Nalanda
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fees: No entry fee
6. Mithila Shakti Peeth
Mithila Shakti Peeth is situated on the Indo-Nepal border. It has been mentioned in the Holy books, it is one of the 52 legendary Shakti Peethas. The best time to visit is between the months of October to March.
Mithila Shakti Peeth Visitor Information:
- Location: Darbhanga, Bihar
- Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
- Entry Fees: No entry fee
7. Patna Sahib, Patna
Patna Sahib is one of the holiest places of Sikhism. Known as Harmandir Sahib, it is one of the 5 Takhts. The design of this sacred place is mind-blowing. It is a Gurudwara constructed in the year1950, in the memory of the tenth Guru of the Sikhs; Guru Gobind Singh by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who had established the Sikh empire in India. This place is also popular as it is the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh.
Patna Sahib Visitor Information:
Location: Patna
Timings: 05:45 AM to 06:00 PM
Entry Fees: No entry fee
8. Garib Sthan Mandir, Muzaffarpur
Baba Garib Asthan Mandir is one of the sacred and oldest temples of lord Shiva situated in the Purani bazar area of Muzaffarpur district, state of Bihar. The most popular occasion is the Maha Shiv Ratri where processions are carried out along with large carcades.
Picnics are organized by the devotees in the main complex of the temple.
Garib Sthan Mandir Visitor Information:
- Location: Purani bazaar, Muzaffarpur
- Timings: 04:00 AM to 12:00 Noon & 02:30 PM to 10:00 PM
- Entry Fees: No entry fee
9. Mandargiri Temple, Banka
Mandargiri is the only holy Digamber Temple where the foot prints and the idol of Prabhu have been ceremonially sanctified. The place is related to the salvation of the 12th Tirthankar of Jains, Lord Vasupoojya.
The temple has a spellbound coloured idol of Lord Vasupoojya in a 3000 years old cross-legged sitting posture made up of white stone.
Mandargiri, Temple Visitor Information:
- Location: Bounsi district, Banka
- Timings:
- Entry Fees: No entry fee
10. Yama Temple in Pretshila Hill
Pretshila Hill or the Hill of Ghosts is believed to have been constructed by the Queen of Indore, Rani Ahilyabai Holkar. But the exact time frame is not documented. This place is famous for Pind Daan and a sacred place for Hindu community. The temple is dedicated to Lord Yama, the God of Death.
The locals believe that taking a bath in the Ramkund Tank where Lord Rama had once bathed washes away the sins of the devotees.
Yama Temple Visitor Information:
- Location: Near Vishnupad Mandir, Chand Chaura, Jaiprakash Nagar, Gaya 823001
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fees: No entry fee
Conclusion:
Bihar has a long glorious history of over 3000 years of the ancient land. The state is known for its precious gift to the world, like the political system of the republic, first well-established university, religions like Buddhism and Jainism, this oldest inhabited land offers you a vast array of attractions to explore.
