Bihar Tourism: Things to do in Bodhgaya

Inhabited for more than 3000 years, Bodhgaya is one of the oldest established places of the world. Bodhgaya has many places and monuments of historical importance. Also, there are many regions that hold importance from various religions’ point of view. There are places important for religions like Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Islam and Hinduism among others.

A Stroll Around the Town of Gaya

Travel tourism in Bodhgaya is widening with every passing day. As the tourists realize the importance of historical places, Bodhgaya travel and tourism is flourishing with increasing International travelers are planning Bodhgaya travel trips. As stated by Bihar government, the state is witnessing more Foreign travelers than the most popular tourist destination – Goa. In a recent survey, Bodhgaya travel trips have been listed among the top ten most picked holiday trips in India while Bihar is enlisted at number seventh amidst the most popular tourist destinations in India.

Tourists-in-Bodhgaya

With umpteen pilgrimages, excavations, monuments, fort, fairs and festivals, Bodhgaya in Bihar attracts tourists with all its might. The art and culture of Bodhgaya is admired by hundreds and thousands of tourists coming every year to the state of Bihar. To cater to the traditional and cultural needs of tourists, Bodhgaya caters to them with Madhubani paintings, stone pottery, vegetarian cuisines and folk music and dances. Tourists in Bihar enjoy exploring new cultures and traditions, while they are very fond of the paintings, handicrafts, pottery, etc. available in various Indian states.

Bodhgaya in Bihar at Large!

Bhodhgaya, Nalanda, Vaishali, Kushinagar, Pawapuri, Rajgir and Patna among others are some of the famous Bihar tourists Attractions. Bodhgaya is the famous tourist destination known as the birthplace of Buddhist preacher Lord Buddha. Every year thousands of International travelers in Bihar swarm this place to learn and enrich their lives with Buddhist lessons. There is a unique serenity in the environment of Bodhgaya, which is why many Bihar travel guides recommend a visit here for seekers of inner peace. Bodhgaya has many monasteries, some of which were built by people from Japan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand and other nations. Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya has been felicitated with the title of being a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Bodhgaya and Nalanda are located in the southern part of Bihar. Nalanda has the Nalanda Archeological museum, Nalanda University, which considered as one of the greatest centers for Buddhist teachings, Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall, the Surya Mandir, etc. find place in its vicinity.

Mahabodhi-Temple-in-Bodhgaya

Vaishali has religious importance for Jainism as well as Buddhism in its name. This is the place where Lord Buddha took his last sermon while Lord Mahaveera (24th Teerthankara in Jainism) was born in a village in Vaishali. There are many Jain and Buddha structures situated in Vaishali while other Bihar tourists Attractions include Ashoka Pillars and Vishwa Shanti Stupa.

Vaishali–World’s-first-republics

Kushinagar is the place where Buddha attained liberation from life and death cycle. Located at about 53 Km away from Gorakhpur, Kushinagar is the place where Buddha was cremated. Similar is the importance of Pawapuri, where Lord Mahavira attained Nirvana.

Vishva-Shanti-Stupa

Rajgir is also important for followers of Jainism as well as Buddhism. Lord Buddha spent almost 12 years in this region, while Lord Mahaveera also spent a considerable time in the area.

Travel tourism Bihar is a journey through the religious places of various religions in India. For Sikhism, there are many Gurudwaras like the Gurudwara Handi Sahib, Gurudwara Pakki Sangat, Gurudwara Gobind Ghat, Gurudwara Guru ka Bhag, Gurudwara Taksali Sangat, etc. in the state of Bodhgaya. For Islam, there is Sararam, Maner Sharif, Bodhgaya Sharif and Phulwari Sharif.

Takht-Sri-Patna-Sahib–the-birthplace-of-Guru-Gobind-SinghJi

The historical museums in Bihar travel guide include Nalanda Museum, Bodhgaya Museum, Vikramshila Museum and Vaishali Museum. Chhath pooja is one of the most famous festivals in all over Bodhgaya. The inhabitants of Bodhgaya, no matter where they are staying in the country, reach their hometowns in Bodhgaya in participate in this auspicious event. Visiting the state during the time of Chhath is one of the Bihar travel tips recommended by tour planners. Rajgir Mahotsava, Sonepur Fair and Patna Film Festival are some of other Bihar tourists Attractions. Forts in Bihar to be visited include Rohtasgarh Fort, Palamu Fort, Maner Fort, Jalalgarh Fort, Rajmahal and many more.

Nalanda-Museum

Patna, the capital city of Bihar, also showcases many places to Foreign travelers in Bihar from tourists’ point of view. Hanuman Mandir, Takht Shri Harmandir Sahib, Jadughar, Golghar, Qila House, Gandhi Setu and Kumhrar are few of them. Patna is important from Sikh perspective as it is the birth place of their tenth guru Guru Gobind Singh.

Takht-Sri-Patna-Sahib–the-birthplace-of-Guru-Gobind-SinghJi

As per the lifestyle of Bihar, moviegoers and entertainment seekers constitute a major part of culture. Most of the movies are released in the native language of the state called Bhojpuri.

Not only historical and religious places, Bihar travel offers a treat for wildlife lovers. There are many wildlife sanctuaries and National Parks in Bihar for the tourist to enjoy viewing and observing the other living beings on the planet. Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhimbandh Sanctuary, Hazaribagh Sanctuary, Lawalong Sanctuary, Dalma Sanctuary, Dolphin Sanctuary among others offers such opportunities. Also, Bihar entreats birdwatchers with various species of birds in Kabar Lake Bird Sanctuary. There are waterfalls like Kakolat, Telhar, Karkat waterfalls in Bodhgaya that are enjoyed by many tourists visiting the state.

Dalma-Wildlife-Sanctuary

Bihar travel tips include some of the scientific Museums like Patna Planetarium, which is one of the largest in Asia as well as Srikrishan Science Centre.

Srikrishna-Science-Centre, Patna

There are various travel packages offered for tourists visiting Bihar. Every package has different deals to reach and accommodate in the state of Bodhgaya. There are ways through air, rail and road to reach the important tourist destinations.

Therefore, Bihar offers a range of place, fairs, festivals, culture and tradition to fill the tourism senses of the Foreign Travelers in Bihar. Bihar and Bodhgaya, together with their unique cultures and traditions, exhibits various points of interest to the travelers reaching the state in large numbers. Government of Bihar records an increasing footfall on the various tourist spots each year.

Bodhgaya-in-night

A tourist, once aware about the importance of Bihar and different tourism spots that Bodhgaya in Bihar offers them, cannot resist visiting the place atleast once. People from all over the world swarm to Bodhgaya to experience the religious heat of Jainism and Buddhism.

Essential HINDI phrases for travellers

Travellers will find that most people associated with the tourism industry in India speak or at least understand English. Standard Hindi is the official language of India and is the most widely spoken of India’s scheduled languages. It is spoken mainly in northern states of Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand and Bihar. It can be useful to learn Hindi to help enhance your travels.  Here is a handy list of keywords and phrases that will help you have a comfortable stay in India.

1. WHILE SHOPPING:

How much?: Kitney ka?

It’s very expensive: Bahut mehnga hain.

Lower the price a little: Thoda kum kardo.

Don’t want: Nahi chahye.

Thank you: Shukriya/Dhanyavaad

2. WHILE DINING:

I want … : Mujhe…chahye

Salt: Namak

Is it vegetarian?: Yeh shakahaari hain?

What’s in it?: Ismey kya hain?

How much time will it take?: Kitna time lagega?

It’s cold: Thanda hain.

Don’t make it too spicy: mirchi kam.

Don’t add ice: Baraf nahi/matt daalna.

3. WHILE TRAVELING:

Drive to…: … chaliye.

Drive faster: Jaldi chalaiye

Drive slower: Dheere chalaiye

Stop: Rukye.

Where is…: ….kahan hain?

How far is…: ….kitni dur hain?

How much (money) till…?: …tak kitne lagenge?

What time?: Kitne baje?

4. NUMBERS:

1. Ek

2. Do

3. Teen

4. Chaar

5. Paanch

6. Chhe

7. Saat

8. Aath

9. Nau

10. Dus

Souvenirs From India

India is not only breathtaking but offers a vast variety of experiences and places and you will definitely want some mementos of your trip. Choosing which souvenirs from India to take home is a hard choice as baggage space is always a limitation for travelers. Here are our suggestions of some essential and some original souvenirs from the length and breadth of the country, depending on where your meandering feet might land. The suggestions are given based on the weight, size, authentic representation of the destination and some amount of cultural context. Shower your loved ones back home with a taste of India!

Prayer-flags-souvenirs-from-India

North India

Starting from the very North of the country, Jammu & Kashmir harbours a hidden pride in its valleys – Ladakh. The spirit of Ladakh is embodied in the fluttering prayer flags which hang in every nook and corner to spread the blessings with the wind. Grab a small roll of these to remember the gentle and non overwhelming demeanour of Tibetans in this region. If you have some space, pashmina shawls and stoles would also be a good choice. You are sure to land in Delhi if visiting the North. There will be a plethora of choices here, kitsch bric-a- bracs from the Hauz Khas market are something you could look at. For those who want to visit only one place, Dilli Haat in south-central Delhi will give an opportunity to pick a souvenir from states around the country.

Fabric-souvenirs-from-India

West India

Veering towards the western region, Rajasthan is a marvellous destination for shopping. Silver jewellery, funky slippers, and tie & dye fabric is the best in the country. Goa and Mumbai have their own set of curios, the most famous of which is a nice pack of cashews from Goa. In Mumbai, look out for some Bollywood inspired memorabilia. The street markets of Mumbai in turn are great for ethnic artificial jewellery which befits dresses for an evening out. The women are likely to spend a lot of time here – spending, and more importantly sprucing up their bargaining skills.

Handcraft-toys-artifacts-souvenirs-from-India

South India

South of India is a treasure where knick-knacks are concerned. If in Bangalore, don’t forget to pick up the unique Channapatna toys from Cauvery Shopping Emporium in the heart of the city. Mysore Silk is extremely famous, so picking up some light stoles will be a good idea. If you have taken fancy to the sari, then both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are great to pick up unique designs in both cotton and silk. Infact the whole of South India has regional delights where weaving skills are concerned. If heading towards Kerala, objects made of coconut husk, small replicas of the Snake Boats, Kerala Saris and Aranmula metal mirrors do not take up much space.

East India

Ethnic hunting spears & knives and prayer wheels lie ironically together in the Eastern Markets of the country. Bright red and black coloured Naga Shawls work really well as wall hangings too. Handier to carry back, are the small prayer wheels that a lot of locals use while chanting. The eastern states like West Bengal, Nagaland, Sikkim and Assam are famous for their own special weaving designs. Small bags, exclusive tribal jewellery and Hornbill pins are available everywhere.

Naga-shawl-souvenirs-from-India

Bargaining

It is difficult to assess the cost of an item if traveling alone. It’s best to get some local advice on this matter. Bargaining is rampant in India, so start with bringing down the cost by at least 40%. Based on your awe and desire for the souvenir, relent when needed. For small bric-a-bracs like key-chains and artificial jewellery you will not find too much scope to bargain.

Bangles-souvenirs-from-India

The list of things to carry back home may exceed your baggage space, so limit that urge to pick up bright and beautiful bread spreads, heavy antiques and shawls. Although if finances allow you might like to ship some back home as you are bound to get great deals in India.

If not for the souvenirs, just enjoy the thrill of shopping in the bustling streets of an Indian market. The colours, smell and noise add to the charm of jostling your way around and getting a good bargain! Moreover if you are able to transport yourself back to this fabulous country after your trip through your souvenirs, it will be a job well done.

Sikkim Tourism - Things to do in Sikkim

Sikkim is one of the “Seven Sisters” in India. This term is used to describe the seven tiny states that together form India’s North-East. The small and truly untouched state of Sikkim has majestic landscapes and lush green hills. It is indeed blessed with nature’s bounty. Even after a considerable rise in tourism over the recent years, its sanctity and beauty have been preserved by its proud people and conscientious authorities. Sikkim is divided into four districts – North, South, East and West. We explore some of the highlights to help you with your Sikkim travels.

View from Hanuman Tok - Gangtok -Sikkim

North Sikkim: 

Here you will find the revered Guru-Dongmar Lake, which is considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus. Its mystical powers are heightened by the fact that even in the harshest winters parts of the lake remain unfrozen. The lake is considerably inaccessible and requires a two-day expedition. A popular destination closer to the capital, Gangtok is Yumthang – the Valley of Flowers. In spring, Yumthang is bathed with scarlet rhododendrons and wildflowers, a sight to behold.

Buddhist Temple in Sikkim

East Sikkim: 

Gangtok, the capital of the state lies in this part of Sikkim. In Gangtok, one can enjoy the local cuisine and shop for handicrafts. Many beautiful tourist destinations like the Rumtek and Enchey monasteries, Jhakri Falls and Tashi Viewpoint are a short drive from the city. Perhaps the most enchanting attraction of the state is the Nathula Pass-Tsomgo Lake-Baba Mandir trinity. Although these destinations aren’t in this part of the State, taxis and tours to reach them are best hired in Gangtok itself. Nathu-La is located at over 14,200 meters and offers one of the most breathtaking sights in India. En route to Nathu-La stop at the still and crystal-clear Tsomgo/Chhangu Lake, where you can ride on a yak, shop for locally produced goods and catch a bite to eat. Tourists require special permits to visit Nathu-La. It is closed on Monday and Tuesday

Sikkim Assembly Building

South Sikkim: 

This is the sleepy and peaceful part of the serene state. The hub of this district is Ravangla, which is located at the height of 7,000 meters. The township, famous for the Temi Tea Garden and wildlife, comes alive during the Lhabsol festival in August-September. Before leaving the district make sure you visit Samdruptse. In the Bhutia language, Samdruptse means ‘Wish Fulfilling Hill’. Here stands the 135 feet high statue of Guru Padmasambhava, made of concrete and copper.

Monastery at Ravangla

Western Sikkim: 

While South Sikkim is a haven for peace lovers, Western Sikkim is for thrill seekers. Rafting and kayaking on River Teesta draws people from far and wide to this small region. For visitors who prefer to tame the mountains, rock climbing and mountain biking expeditions can be organised.

Teesta River in Sikkim

Punjab travel guide: Things to do and see

Punjab is one of the most lively parts of India and has a population that truly believes in living the good life. From music to food and from clothes to cars, everything about the state is loud, proud and rich. There are plenty of interesting facts and things for visitors to do. We pick out some of the highlights in our Punjab travel guide discovering off-beat things to do, farming, cooking, colours, festivals, and great pujabi people

1. Join the celebrations:

Punjabis love to share their joy and celebrate every important moment of life. No wonder, they celebrate festivals with great zest and revelry. One of their most important festivals is Baisakhi. This marks the Punjabi New Year and is celebrated with lots of music, dancing and feasts. It falls on the 13th of April, every year. Another important regional festival is Basant Panchami, which is celebrated in February or March to welcome spring. Kite flying is an integral part of the festival and people are dressed in bright yellow, which signifies joy and a golden harvest.

Baisakhi

2. Eat to your heart’s content: 

Punjab is filled with fertile fields and people here love to eat. Feasts are a big a part of every celebration and the state’s most famous dish is “makke ki roti and sarso ka saag” which is topped off with a giant glass of lassi. In big cities like Chandigarh and Amritsar you can find many international food chains but nothing beats the local cuisine of Punjab. If you are staying with a homestay take a cookery lesson to learn first hand how to make some of the local delicacies.

3. Visit the Golden Temple: 

The Golden Temple in Amritsar is one of the most famous gurudwaras in the world. The temple is visited by millions of people and people from all backgrounds volunteer to serve guests of the temple as well as the needy. It is one of the most beautiful gurudwaras in India and no trip to Punjab is complete without visiting it.

Golden Temple

4. Jallianwalla bagh: 

Jallianwalla bagh was where the massacre of 13th April 1919 took place. On that day 1000s of peaceful protestors, including women and children, were gunned down by the British army. Remnants of the horrific day are preserved at the protected site.

5. Wagah Border: 

This border separates India from Pakistan and is for the Beating of the Retreat ceremony. The ceremony is a wildly exaggerated show of strength from both sides. The ceremony starts at sunset and the audience participates enthusiastically with music and dance. The Wagah border is located 29 kms from Amritsar and tours combining a trip here with a visit to the Golden Temple can easily be arranged.

Wagah Border

6. Sheesh Mahal: 

Located in Hoshiarpur is the Sheesh Mahal or Glass Palace. This palace was built in 1911 and is home to many valuable pieces of art and history. Some of them are depictions of King George V’s coronation ceremony, statues of various deities, and even life-size statues of King George V, Queen Victoria and their courtiers.

7. Fatehgarh Sahib: 

This is a sacred town located about 50 kms from Patiala. There is a famous gurudwara here which honours the victory of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur over Sirhind. The town has four memorial gates that stand as tributes to four important people from the Sikh history associated with Sirhind. Other than historical and religious value, the town’s natural beauty attracts visitors from all over.

Fatehgarh Sahib

8. Chandigarh: 

Chandigarh serves as a capital to both Haryana and Punjab. It is a city with a big heart and is constantly buzzing with activity and music. The most popular places to see here are the Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake. Rock Garden is a 40 acre park which was founded in 1957. It’s famous for sculptures made of recycled material like broken glass, bangles, ceramics and plastic bottles. The garden is located near the Sukhna Lake, which is a manmade Lake. It is a popular place for locals to enjoy a morning or evening walk.

9. Farming: 

Punjab is an agriculturally oriented state. This is particularly true of Punjab’s hinterland where most families own acres of fertile fields and farmhouses. You can stay in a farmhouse-style homestays and participate in daily chores like farming, milking cows and churning the butter and more.

Punjab travel guide:

Punjab-farming

Interesting facts

• Sukhna Lake was such a beloved part of the city that Pierre Jeanneret, who was one of Chandigarh’s planners asked for ashes to be immersed in the lake.
• Chandigarh was india’s first planned city.
• On the festival of Hola Muhalla in 2009, the Sikh community created a world record by achieving highest number blood donations made in a single day.
• Recent archaeological excavations revealed that punjab’s history can be traced as far back as the Indus Valley Civilisation.