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Bhagalpur!

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Population

0.41 million

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Bihar map East India 🏙️ Urban Silk Production Historical Sites River Tourism Bhagalpur Silk City Bihar Tourism Vikramshila Ganges River

Bhagalpur, also known as the 'Silk City', is a city on the banks of the Ganges in Bihar, India. It is renowned for its Tussar silk production and historical significance, dating back to the Mauryan era.

Bhagalpur offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural beauty. The city is a major center for silk production, offering insights into traditional craftsmanship. However, expect basic infrastructure and limited tourist facilities compared to larger cities.

Reaching Bhagalpur is easiest by train, though flights to Patna followed by a road trip are also an option. Allow at least two to three days to explore the key attractions and experience the local culture.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

15-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Why Visit:

The weather is perfect for exploring historical sites like Vikramshila, enjoying boat rides on the Ganges, and witnessing the silk production process. Several festivals also occur during this period, adding to the cultural experience.

Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect slightly higher prices and more crowds at popular attractions. Booking accommodations and transportation in advance is recommended.

Shoulder Season

July to September

28-35 degrees C

Monsoon season with moderate to heavy rainfall and high humidity.

Why Visit:

The monsoon season brings lush greenery and a refreshing atmosphere. While the rain might disrupt outdoor activities, it offers a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty.

Tip: Some attractions might have limited accessibility due to heavy rainfall. Be prepared for potential delays in transportation.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

Extremely hot and dry weather with scorching heat waves.

Why Avoid:

The intense heat makes it uncomfortable to explore the city during the day. Outdoor activities are best avoided.

Note: The heat can also affect transportation and accommodation prices might not be significantly lower to justify the discomfort.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Vikramshila Ruins

⏱ 3-4 hours ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

Vikramshila was one of the two most important centers of learning in India during the Pala Empire. The ruins consist of the remains of a Buddhist mona...

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Ajgaibinath Temple

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Ajgaibinath Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is an important pilgrimage site, especially during the month of Shravan....

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Kuppa Ghat

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Kuppa Ghat is a sacred site associated with the Manav Dharma Satsang. It is believed that Maharshi Mehi Paramhans meditated here....

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Mandarin Dam

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

The Mandarin Dam is a scenic reservoir surrounded by hills and forests. It is a popular spot for picnics and nature walks....

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Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary

⏱ 4-5 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary is India's only dolphin sanctuary. It protects the endangered Gangetic dolphins....

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Champapur Digambar Jain Temple

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Champapur Digambar Jain Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Jains. It is believed to be the birthplace of the 12th Tirthankara, Vasupujya....

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Tilakothi

⏱ 1 hour ₹20 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners)

Tilakothi is a historic building that served as the residence of a British Collector during the colonial era....

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Things To Do

attractions

Silk Weaving Workshop

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹500-1000 per person

Visit a local silk weaving unit and learn about the process of Tussar silk production. You'll witness the intricate tech...

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attractions

Ganges River Boat Ride

⏱ 1-2 hours 💰 ₹300-500 per person

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Ganges River. You'll get to see the city from a different perspective and observe the ...

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attractions

Local Market Tour

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 Free

Explore the local markets and sample the regional cuisine. You'll find a variety of street food, spices, and handicrafts...

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attractions

Yoga and Meditation Retreat

⏱ Half-day or full-day 💰 ₹800-1500 per person

Participate in a yoga and meditation session at a local retreat center. You'll learn about the ancient practices of yoga...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Attend a Bihari Wedding

Variable | Invitation only

Bihari weddings are elaborate and colorful celebrations. They involve a series of rituals, music, an...

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celebration

Witness Chhath Puja

4 days | Free

Chhath Puja is a major festival in Bihar dedicated to the Sun God. Devotees offer prayers and perfor...

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celebration

Explore Silk Production

2-3 hours | ₹100-200 for a guided tour

Bhagalpur is famous for its Tussar silk. Visit a local silk weaving unit to learn about the process ...

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celebration

Learn Angika Language

Variable | Free

Angika is a local language spoken in Bhagalpur and surrounding regions. Learning a few basic phrases...

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celebration

Visit a Local Village

Half-day | ₹300-500 for transportation

Take a trip to a nearby village to experience the rural life of Bihar. You'll see traditional houses...

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celebration

Attend a Classical Music Performance

2-3 hours | ₹200-500

Experience the beauty of Indian classical music. Bhagalpur hosts occasional performances by local an...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Litti Chokha
Litti Chokha

A traditional Bihari dish made of wheat balls stuffed with roasted gram flour and served with mashed vegetables (try at street stalls).

Sattu Paratha
Sattu Paratha

A healthy and filling flatbread made with gram flour (try at local dhabas).

Khaja
Khaja

A sweet and crispy pastry (try at sweet shops).

Dal Puri
Dal Puri

Lentil-stuffed fried bread served with potato curry (try at street vendors).

Where to Eat

Zaika Restaurant

Zaika Restaurant

₹₹

Indian, Chinese

📍 Central Bhagalpur

Popular restaurant with a diverse menu. Offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

Butter ChickenBiryani

₹500-800 for two

Moti Mahal Delux

Moti Mahal Delux

₹₹₹

North Indian

📍 Bhagalpur Main Road

Upscale restaurant with elegant ambiance. Known for its flavorful North Indian cuisine.

Tandoori DishesKebabs

₹800-1200 for two

Street Food Spots

Lal Bagh Market

Lal Bagh Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Go during evening hours, check hygiene before eating.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Bhagalpur

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Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Central Bhagalpur

Good for first-time visitors. Close to markets and restaurants, but can be noisy.

Best For: Convenience

Near Railway Station

Ideal for travelers arriving by train. Easy access to transportation, but limited attractions.

Best For: Transit

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Rajhans International

📍 Near Railway Station

Simple rooms with basic amenities. Convenient location for transportation.

₹800-1200/night

Hotel City Inn

📍 Central Bhagalpur

Clean and comfortable rooms with essential facilities. Good value for money.

₹700-1100/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹1500-2500/night

Hotel Sai International

📍 Near Bus Stand

Well-appointed rooms with modern amenities. Offers a restaurant and conference facilities.

₹1500-2500/night

Hotel Ashoka Grand

📍 Bhagalpur Main Road

Spacious rooms with contemporary decor. Features a multi-cuisine restaurant and bar.

₹1800-2800/night

Luxury

₹3000+/night

Hotel Clarks Inn Bhagalpur

📍 Near Airport Road

Elegant rooms with premium amenities. Offers a swimming pool, spa, and fine-dining restaurant.

₹3000+/night

The Royal Residency

📍 Central Bhagalpur

Luxurious rooms with personalized service. Features a rooftop restaurant and a fitness center.

₹2800+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Patna Airport (PAT), 230km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Bhagalpur Junction (BGP)

Main railway station connecting to major cities.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 18 hours (₹800-2500)
  • From Mumbai: 30 hours (₹1200-4000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Bhagalpur Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Patna: 6 hours (₹400-800)

Note: Trains more comfortable

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-150 per trip

Best for: Short distances within the city

Bargain for the fare before starting the journey. Confirm the destination with the driver.

directions_bus

Bus

💰 ₹10-30 per trip

Best for: Budget travelers

Buses can be crowded during peak hours. Check the route and destination before boarding.

directions

Taxi/Ola/Uber

💰 ₹150-300 per trip

Best for: Comfortable and convenient travel

Book in advance, especially during peak hours.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Light and comfortable clothing is recommended, especially during summer. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: Available in the city center

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions; cards are accepted at larger establishments.

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaws.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or boiled water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from questionable sources.

Common Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.

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Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio are popular networks. SIM cards available at the airport or local shops.

WiFi: Available at some hotels and restaurants.

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Language & Tipping

Language: English proficiency is limited. Hindi and Angika are widely spoken. Learn a few basic phrases.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹20-50

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