Bihar derives its name from 'Vihara', which means abode. In ancient times Bihar was home to many Buddhist Viharas. Bihar has a rich history; it was the seat of power of King Chandragupta Maurya, Bimbisara, Ashoka, and other mighty rulers of India. The ancient universities of Vikramshila and Nalanda established during that time were the world-renowned centers of education.
The significant cities of the state are Patna, Bhagalpur, Gaya, Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, Rajgir, Vaishali, Pawapuri, Champaran, and Sasaram.
The state has innumerable tourist attractions like Buddhist sites at Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, Rajgir, and Vaishali, the Jain sites at Vaishali and Pawapuri, and Bhagalpur. Har Mandir Sahib at Patna forms an important pilgrimage center for Sikhs.
The other places of interest are Sultanganj, Vishnu Pad temple, .Konch Shiva Temple, Baidyanath Dham, Sun Temple and Shivs temple.
The main festivals of the state are Makar Sankranti, Buddha Jayanti, Mahavir Jayanti, Malamasa Mela, Marriage Festival, Patliputra Festival and Rajgir Dance Festival. These festivals are celebrated with gaiety and enthusiasm and also attract tourists in large numbers.
There are several handicrafts that the tourists can pick up as souvenirs for their near and dear ones. One such art that has gained fame and recognition across the globe
is the Madhubani painting style.
The state offers decent accommodation facilities to the tourists as per their budget.
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