Bihar has many tags attached to it. The state owns the pride of establishing one among the first democracies in the world called Lichhavi. The earliest university in the world was established in Bihar. The name Bihar is a derivative from Vihara, which means ‘monastery’. True to its name and its rich cultural heritage, the state houses various monasteries and it is famous for monuments belonging to various religions. The major empires of India rose to great heights here and they succumbed here as well. River Ganga enriches the plains of the landlocked state and contributes to the fertility of lands along with rivers Kosi and Gandak. A wonderful place with a rich history offers many tourist attractions out of which, the top 10 places to visit in Bihar are mentioned below.
1. Nalanda University
Nalanda University was established during the
5th century A.D. The university is considered the first residential university ever in the world. The university stands proof for the prominent role played by India in imparting knowledge. The university had
2000 teachers who taught over
10000 students from all parts of the world. The uniqueness of the place could be gauged by the fact that Buddha himself was a teacher here and
Hieun-Tsang, Chinese traveler and a great scholar, was a student of this university. Red rocks were used in the construction, which is built in
Kushana style of architecture. The remains excavated from the university ruins include
stupas, ornamented panels, lecture halls and stairway.
2. Bodhi Tree
Bodhi Tree is located about 100 km from Patna. Buddha achieved enlightenment under this tree and hence it is a pilgrim center for Buddhists who hail from all parts of the world. The place where it is situated has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. On your visit to Bodhi Tree, you will find Maha Bodhi Temple, which is sacred to those who follow Buddhism. The architecture of the temple goes to show the richness and grace of Indian architecture.
3. Muchalinda Lake
Muchalinda Lake acquires the name after Shesh Naga or the Snake King Muchalinda who protected Buddha during a storm while he was into the sixth week of meditation. Muchalinda protected Buddha from the rising waves and in honor of his services; the place was named after him. You could find the sculpture depicting the hood protecting Buddha who is in the state of meditation on snake coil. The green trees by the lake and the lush greenery make it the most frequented tourist spot in Bodh Gaya.
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