Bihar, a state with a perfect blend of vibrant traditions, culture, and delicious food, has even more to offer. This astonishing state is home to some truly beautiful and underrated historical temples where your soul will find peace.
The hospitality and warmth of the people will leave you with unforgettable memories. From the soothing melodies of Bhojpuri folk songs to the mouthwatering taste of Litti Chokha and Thekua, Bihar will surely win your heart!
So, fasten your seat belts as we embark on “A Tour of 11 Historical Temples of Bihar: An Enchanting Voyage Through Rich Culture and Heritage” through this blog, while also discovering the best spots to try delicious Bihari cuisine!
You can take a virtual tour of the historical monuments of Arunachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and more on our website.
Discover the Most Iconic Historical Temples of Bihar
In this blog post, we will take a look at some of Bihar’s most beloved historical temples, so buckle up and get ready for a virtual tour through rich culture and heritage.
1. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya
Bihar is home to some of the most significant Buddhist spiritual sites, with the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya standing out as one of the most sacred and iconic historical temples of Bihar. This is the place where Siddhartha Gautama became Buddha after attaining enlightenment under the now-famous Bodhi Tree, making it a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bihar is home to some of the most significant Buddhist spiritual sites, with the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya standing out as one of the most sacred and iconic historical temples of Bihar. This is the place where Siddhartha Gautama became Buddha after attaining enlightenment under the now-famous Bodhi Tree, making it a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Mahabodhi Temple is truly a gorgeous representation of ancient Indian architecture, featuring a main tower adorned with intricately carved railings and a garden for meditation. The Bodhi Tree, a central point of Buddhist pilgrimage, symbolizes peace and enlightenment.
Morning chants and meditation sessions in the serene garden offer visitors a profoundly peaceful and spiritual experience. After meditating, you can seek blessings from the gilded statue of Lord Buddha and explore the other statues and stupas, which provide a brief introduction to the origins of Buddhism.
2. Vishnupad Temple, Gaya
The Vishnupad Temple is a blend of mythology and faith. This significant holy site, located in Gaya, is said to have the footprints of Lord Vishnu. As one of the most notable historical temples of Bihar, it features beautiful architecture and depicts Hindu epics through intricate carvings and sculptures.
Hindus visit this temple mainly during the month of September, known as Pitra Paksha, to perform the Hindu ritual of ‘Pind Daan’ for their ancestors, seeking to attain salvation for their souls. The ancient temple, situated on the banks of the Falgu River, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the devotion and peace that surround it.
3. Patna Sahib Ji, Patna
Another significant faith, Sikhism, has a very important pilgrimage site situated in the capital of the beautiful state of Bihar: Patna Sahib Gurudwara. Built at the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the Tenth Guru of the Sikh community, this Gurudwara, located on the banks of the Ganga, boasts spectacular architecture that will leave you amazed.
As one of the notable historical temples of Bihar, it also features the holy Takht Sri Harmindar Sahib, a throne on which Guru Gobind Singh Ji once sat. Based on my last visit to Patna Sahib Ji, I can guarantee that you’ll not only feel at peace but also experience the divinity and spiritual energies around you. The melodious chanting of hymns and prayers, along with continuous Langar Seva, will heal your soul.
The Prakash Parv, the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, is the highlight of the Gurudwara, as the entire site is illuminated and the surroundings turn surreal. You should definitely visit this historical Gurudwara to find solace in the fast-paced life!
4. Maa Patan Devi, Patna- Bihar
Have you heard the mythological story about Lord Vishnu destroying Goddess Sati (Lord Shiva’s first wife) with his Sudarshan Chakra, causing her body parts to fall on different parts of the earth and resulting in the formation of Shaktipeeths?
Among the 51 Shaktipeeths, one is located in Patna and is known as Maa Patan Devi or Maa Pataneshwari, making it a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site. According to folklore, the right thigh of the goddess fell here. This famous historical temple in Bihar features simple architecture, yet it radiates vibrant energy.
The strong and powerful aura around this historic temple attracts visitors and Devi Bhakts from across the country, especially during Navratri, when they come to perform pujas and seek blessings from the Goddess.
5. Mundeshwari Temple, Kaimur, Bihar
Bihar is home to one of the oldest functional Hindu temples in India. The Mundeshwari Temple in Kaimur is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Shakti, giving it a powerful and divine aura. This historical temple is a beautiful representation of ancient architecture, located on top of Mundeshwari Hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, making it a must-visit historical temple in Bihar.
The continuous worship practices at this historic temple date back to 625 CE, and the most popular festivals, Shivratri and Ram Navami, are celebrated with great enthusiasm and spiritual devotion.
6. Mangala Gowri Temple,
The Mangala Gowri Temple is another notable historical temple in Bihar located in the holy city of Gaya. Being one of the Shakti Peethas, this historical temple is dedicated to Goddess Mangala Gowri, an avatar of Goddess Parvati. Devotees visit this temple to seek blessings for marital bliss and fertility due to its spiritual significance. I recommend this sacred mandir to couples facing issues in their married life—if you have faith, Maa Mangala Gowri will surely bless you!
Adding to this, the architecture of the temple is serene, and the surroundings of this historical temple in Bihar offer a divine energy that soothes the soul. As a Devi temple, it attracts many visitors and devotees, especially during the auspicious month of Navratri. Its legacy as a Shakti Peetha makes it a significant destination for those exploring the state’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
7. Jalmandir, Pawapuri: Must Visit Temple in Bihar
As we respect and worship nature, we have the Jalmandir, Temple of Water, located in the town of Pawapuri, Bihar. This Jain historic temple honors Lord Mahavira, making it a significant site for Tirthankaras.
The architectural brilliance of the temple, built in the middle of a lotus-filled lake, creates an aura of peace and purity. The temple’s design, with its white marble adorned with intricate carvings, adds to the beautiful setting, drawing pilgrims and visitors seeking both divine blessings and a moment of solace.
Additionally, the significance of the Jalmandir goes beyond its beauty. It is dedicated to Lord Mahavira’s cremation and his attainment of Nirvana. The temple’s “Charan Paduka”, or foot imprint, is a focal point of devotion, symbolizing his eternal presence and teachings.
You should definitely visit this most famous historical temple of Bihar with your family.
8. Janki Mandir, Sitamarhi, Bihar
The historic Janki Mandir, situated in Sitamarhi, Bihar, is a unique temple dedicated to Goddess Sita, the beloved consort of Lord Rama and a central figure in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana.
During our road trip, when we visited this historic temple, devotees informed us that it is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita. Furthermore, it is said to be the place where Goddess Sita returned to the earth, merging back into the lap of her mother after being abandoned by Lord Rama. This legend truly enhanced our appreciation of the temple.
The temple features beautiful architecture with intricate carvings and vibrant depictions from the Ramayana, capturing the essence of Goddess Sita’s life and legacy. It serves as a spiritual haven for pilgrims seeking blessings for marital harmony and happiness, drawing visitors from across the nation to worship and pay respects.
Janki Mandir is not just a place of worship but also one of the most famous temples in Bihar, representing the perfect blend of mythological and cultural traditions of the state.
9. Mahavir Mandir, Patna
Are you a dedicated worshipper of Lord Hanuman? Then I highly recommend visiting the vibrant Mahavir Mandir in Patna. It is one of the most famous Hanuman temples in India, attracting devotees from all over the country. This historical temple in Bihar is renowned for its belief in the miraculous powers of Lord Hanuman, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, when thousands gather to offer prayers and seek blessings for strength and protection.
Although the temple features modern architecture, the rituals and traditions practiced here are ancient and deeply spiritual, making it a must-visit historical temple in Bihar.
The temple’s famous prasad among devotees is called “Naivedyam” prasad. Lord Hanuman is believed to fulfill the wishes of devotees who truly have faith in him.
10. Dev Surya Mandir , Bihar
Famous for its grand Chhath Puja celebrations, Surya Mandir, or Sun Temple, located in Deo, Aurangabad, is dedicated to the Sun God. The temple’s architecture features an open courtyard with walls adorned with intricate carvings, and the main portion of the temple houses the idol of the Sun God, attracting devotees from across the country.
Historical Surya Mandir is a remarkable example of a historical temple in Bihar. The festival of Chhath Puja is a testament to the deep-rooted cultural traditions of Bihar and the importance of the Sun in Hindu mythology.
It is a display of devotion, with thousands of devotees offering prayers to the Sun God at sunrise and sunset, standing in water, and offering Prasad.
Chhath Puja is not just a festival but an emotion for the people of Bihar; family members from everywhere return home to perform and enjoy the festivities.
Thekua is the famous prasad from the Puja—don’t forget to ask your Bihari friend to bring some back for you on their way home!
11. Mandagiri Temple: You must visit the temple!
Bihar’s spiritual hidden gem, Mandagiri Temple, is situated in the Bhagalpur district. A Hindu and a Jain temple coexist within the compound of this historical temple in Bihar.
Delving into the Vishnu Purana, we discovered that the main idol in the historical temple is the fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu, Lord Narsimha. Additionally, the twelfth Jain Tirthankara, Vasupujya, is also worshipped in the Mandagiri Digambar Jain temple.
The architecture, inspired by peacock feathers, adds to the beauty of this historical temple in Bihar. The serene and remote location makes it a mystical charm, ideal for those seeking a quiet place for introspection and worship.
Conclusion
Bihar, the state that covers everything from food to culture, heritage, and spiritual places, is a must-visit destination. Discover A Tour Of 11 Historical Temples Of Bihar: Enchanting Voyage Through Rich Culture and Heritage on your next trip to cleanse your spiritual self and seek blessings. Also, don’t forget to enjoy Malpua, Thekua, and Litti Chokha from both famous and local shops.
If you are planning a trip to South India or Kolkata, don’t forget to check out our blogs about the must-visit historic temples and historical monuments in those regions!
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