Tag Archives: oldest inhabited cities

Patna

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Golghar, Patna a unique architectural structure built during the British era

About Patna, Bihar

Patna is the capital city of the state of Bihar in India. It is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, with a rich history that spans over two millennia.

Patna has a significant historical legacy and has been a thriving center of politics, culture, and commerce since ancient times. It was the capital of the Magadha Empire, one of the most powerful and prosperous kingdoms in ancient India. The city has witnessed the reign of various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Guptas, and Mughals.

Patna is known for its vibrant cultural heritage.

It has been a melting pot of different cultures and religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Islam. The city has preserved its rich cultural traditions, festivals, and culinary delights.

Patna is famous for its delectable Bihari cuisine. Visitors can indulge in mouth-watering dishes such as litti-chokha, sattu paratha, khaja, and various regional sweets.

With its historical landmarks, cultural heritage, and culinary delights, Patna offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Exploring the city provides a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Bihar’s history and culture.

Things To Do in Patna

When visiting Patna there are several activities and places to explore that offer a diverse range of experiences. Here are some things to do :

Visit the Mahavir Mandir : Explore the famous Mahavir Mandir, a significant Jain temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Witness the grand architecture, attend the religious ceremonies, and soak in the spiritual ambiance.

Explore Patna Museum : Pay a visit to the Patna Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, and historical relics. Admire the Mauryan, Gupta, and Mughal artifacts and learn about the rich history of Bihar.

Discover Kumhrar : Explore the archaeological site of Kumhrar, which showcases the ruins of the ancient city of Pataliputra. Witness the remains of the Mauryan pillared hall and gain insights into the glorious past of the region.

Take a Boat Ride on the Ganges River : Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Ganges River, one of the holiest rivers in India. Witness the beautiful views of the riverbank and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings.

Visit Gandhi Ghat : Pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Gandhi Ghat, a riverfront memorial dedicated to him. Take a moment of reflection, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and witness the evening aarti (ritual) performed on the riverbank.

Patna Sahib Gurudwara : Visit Patna Sahib Gurudwara and participate in the religious rituals, listen to devotional hymns, and experience the spiritual ambiance.

Attend a Cultural Performance : Patna has a vibrant cultural scene. If you’re fortunate, you may get a chance to attend a classical music or dance performance, theater play, or a cultural festival showcasing Bihari folk traditions.

Visit Golghar : Explore Golghar, a unique architectural structure built during the British era. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Patna city and the surrounding area.

Enjoy Local Cuisine : Indulge in the flavors of Bihari cuisine. Try local delicacies like litti-chokha, sattu paratha, malpua, and a variety of sweets like khaja and peda. Visit local restaurants and street food stalls to savor the authentic flavors.

Shop at Patna Markets : Explore the bustling markets like Patna Market, Maurya Lok Complex, and Hathwa Market. Shop for traditional handicrafts, Madhubani paintings, silk sarees, and other local products.

While exploring Patna, take the opportunity to interact with the locals, learn about their traditions, and experience the warmth and hospitality for which the region is known.

How to Reach Patna

Patna, the capital city of Bihar, connects well to various parts of India by air, rail, and road. Here are the common ways to reach :

By Air : The Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna serves as the major airport in the region. Patna maintains excellent connectivity with major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Chennai. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to and from Patna. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach your destination within the city.

By Train : Patna Junction is the main railway station is well-connected to major cities across India. Several express and superfast trains run to and from Patna, providing convenient access for travelers. Some of the major cities connected to Patna by rail include Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Varanasi, and Lucknow.

By Road : This City has good road connectivity and can be reached by buses and private vehicles. National Highway 19 (NH19) connects this City to major cities like Kolkata, Varanasi, and Delhi. Several state highways and roads also provide access to Patna from neighboring cities and towns. You can opt for state-run buses, private buses, or hire a taxi to reach Patna by road.

Local Transportation : Within City, you can travel around the city using various modes of transportation, including auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cab services. Patna also has a well-developed public transportation system, including city buses, which are a cost-effective way to get around.

It is advisable to check the latest travel updates, book your tickets in advance, and plan your journey according to your preferences and convenience.

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Vaishali

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Vaishali - Lord Buddha and the Jain Tirthankara Mahavira.

About Vaishali, Bihar

Vaishali is an ancient town located in the state of Bihar, India. It holds immense historical and cultural significance and is closely associated with the life of Lord Buddha and the Jain Tirthankara Mahavira.

Vaishali is considered one of the oldest and most important cities in ancient India. It was the capital of the Vajji Mahajanapada, one of the sixteen great kingdoms of ancient India. Various ancient scriptures, such as the Mahabharata, Buddhist texts, and Jain literature, mention the city.

Vaishali is equally significant in Jainism as it was the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara. Believers attribute Lord Mahavira’s first spiritual awakening, known as Kevala Jnana, to Vaishali. Numerous temples and archaeological sites dot Vaishali, attracting pilgrims and history enthusiasts.

Vaishali is known for its vibrant cultural traditions. The city celebrates various festivals, including Buddha Purnima and Mahavir Jayanti, with enthusiasm. These festivals witness processions, religious ceremonies, and cultural performances.

Vaishali, with its rich historical and religious heritage, serves as a window into ancient India. It continues to inspire and attract visitors who seek to explore the roots of Buddhism, Jainism, and the country’s historical past.

Things To Do in Vaishali

When visiting Vaishali there are several activities and places to explore that offer a glimpse into its rich historical and cultural heritage. Here are some things to do :

Visit the Ashokan Pillar : Explore the famous Ashokan Pillar, believed to be Emperor Ashoka’s erection. Admire the inscriptions on the pillar and learn about its historical significance.

Explore the Vaishali Museum : Visit the Vaishali Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and sculptures dating back to the Mauryan and Gupta periods. Gain insights into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Discover Buddha Stupas : Explore the ancient Buddha Stupa I and Buddha Stupa II, which associate with Lord Buddha’s visits to Vaishali. These stupas are important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists and offer a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation.

Visit Ananda Stupa : Pay a visit to Ananda Stupa, a significant structure in Vaishali believed to be the site where Lord Buddha preached his last sermon before attaining Mahaparinirvana. Experience the spiritual ambiance and reflect on Buddha’s teachings.

Explore Kutagarasala Vihara : Kutagarasala Vihara, an ancient monastery, associates with Lord Buddha. Explore the ruins of the monastery and imagine the spiritual life that once thrived in this place.

Visit the Coronation Tank : The Coronation Tank, also known as Abhishek Pushkarni, is a sacred water tank in Vaishali. According to legend, visitors consider it auspicious as Lord Buddha used to bathe in this tank. Take a moment to soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Attend a Cultural Festival : If you’re fortunate, you may have the opportunity to witness cultural festivals celebrated in Vaishali. Festivals like Buddha Purnima and Mahavir Jayanti showcase vibrant processions, religious ceremonies, and cultural performances. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and witness the local traditions.

Explore the Rural Charms : Take a stroll through the rural areas of Vaishali to experience the authentic lifestyle of the locals. Interact with villagers, witness their traditional crafts, and explore the serene countryside.

Pay Homage at Temples : Vaishali is home to several temples dedicated to different deities. Pay a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, Bawan Pokhar Temple, and other temples in the area to experience the spiritual fervor and architectural beauty.

Enjoy Local Cuisine : Indulge in the local cuisine, which offers a blend of Bihari and North Indian flavors. Sample traditional dishes like litti-chokha, sattu paratha, and sweets like tilkut and khaja.

While exploring Vaishali, it is advisable to respect the local customs and traditions. Take time to absorb the historical and spiritual significance of the sites and engage with the local community to enhance your experience.

How to Reach Vaishali, Bihar

Vaishali can be reached by various modes of transportation. Here are the common ways to reach :

By Air : The nearest airport is Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna, which is located approximately 68 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Vaishali. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.

By Train : The nearest railway station is Hajipur Junction, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Hajipur, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Vaishali. The distance between Hajipur and Vaishali is around 35 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.

By Road : Vaishali has good road connectivity, and you can reach the town by bus or private car.
1. From Patna : Vaishali is located around 55 kilometers away from Patna, the capital city of Bihar. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Patna to reach Vaishali. The journey takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.
2. From Hajipur : Vaishali is approximately 35 kilometers away from Hajipur. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Hajipur to reach Vaishali. The journey takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.

Local Transportation : Within City, you can explore the town and its attractions by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. It is advisable to negotiate the fare before boarding the vehicle.

It is recommended to check the latest travel updates, book your tickets in advance, and plan your journey according to your preferences and convenience.

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