List of Famous Temples in Bihar

Bihar, a land of deep-rooted spirituality and historical significance, is home to some of the most revered temples in India. With a rich cultural heritage dating back thousands of years, Bihar’s temples attract devotees and tourists from all over the world. In this article, we explore the most famous temples in Bihar, their historical significance, and why they are must-visit spiritual destinations.

Importance of Temples in Bihar

Bihar has been a centre of religious activities since ancient times. From Hinduism and Buddhism to Jainism and Sikhism, the state holds immense religious significance. The temples here not only serve as places of worship but also as architectural marvels showcasing Bihar’s rich cultural legacy.

1. Historical and Archaeological Importance:

• Historical Sites:
  • Numerous temples in Bihar are old buildings that offer important information about the state’s vibrant history. They act as historical sites, safeguarding the architectural and cultural legacy of earlier societies.
• Archaeological Finds:
  • Certain temples hold significant archaeological value, housing ancient objects, writings, and sculptures. They enhance our knowledge of ancient Indian history and art.

2. Spiritual and Religious Importance:

• Places of Worship:
  • Temples are key locations for religious activities, rituals, and ceremonies. They offer a space for worshippers to connect with the divine, seek blessings, and find peace.
  • In Bihar, temples represent various faiths, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, showcasing the state’s rich religious diversity.
• Pilgrimage Sites:
  • Notable temples like the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya and the Vishnupad Temple in Gaya are significant pilgrimage destinations, drawing visitors from India and beyond.
  • These journeys are seen as spiritually fulfilling and are essential to religious life.
• Preserving Ancient Practices:
  • Temples are vital for maintaining and sharing ancient religious texts, customs, and rituals.
  • The priests and staff often have extensive knowledge of scriptures and practices, ensuring these traditions continue.

3. Cultural and Social Significance:

• Community Hubs:
  • Temples often act as community centres, promoting social unity and a sense of belonging.
  • They organize festivals, celebrations, and social gatherings, which help strengthen community ties.
• Support for Arts and Culture:
  • Historically, temples have supported the arts, including music, dance, sculpture, and architecture.
  • Many temples in Bihar display remarkable examples of ancient Indian artistic styles.
• Charitable Efforts:
  • Numerous temples participate in charitable work, offering food, shelter, and medical care to those in need.
  • They play an essential role in social welfare, especially in rural communities.
• Cultural Heritage Preservation:
  • Temples preserve the local culture and history, serving as a repository for the past.

Top 10 Most Famous Temples in Bihar

1.Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the precise location where Siddhartha Gautama achieved enlightenment beneath the Bodhi tree, becoming Lord Buddha. The existing temple structure originates from the 5th-6th century CE, while the first temple, built by Emperor Ashoka, dates back to the 3rd century BCE. The architecture showcases a mix of ancient and later styles, highlighted by a tall pyramidal spire and detailed carvings. It serves as a significant pilgrimage destination for Buddhists globally, drawing visitors from various Buddhist backgrounds. The Bodhi tree here is a direct descendant of the original tree under which Buddha gained enlightenment.

2. Vishnupad Temple, Gaya

This temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is constructed over a footprint believed to belong to him, marked on a rock. It is an essential site for Hindu ancestral rites (Shraddha), where worshippers perform rituals for their ancestors’ salvation. The temple features a tall, octagonal design topped with a silver-plated spire. Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore is known for reconstructing the current temple in the 18th century. The footprint is the main attraction, displayed in a silver-plated basin.

3. Shri Badi Patan Devi Temple, Patna

Recognized as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Patneshwari, a form of Goddess Durga. According to legend, the right thigh of Goddess Sati is said to have fallen at this site. The temple is a vital center for Shakti worship, drawing devotees who seek blessings for strength and protection. With a rich history, it is regarded as one of the oldest temples in Patna and is considered the guardian deity of the city.

4. Maa Mundeshwari Temple, Kaimur

Considered one of the oldest active Hindu temples in India, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti. The temple’s design dates back to the 4th century CE and showcases a distinctive octagonal shape. It is renowned for its ancient stone carvings and the Chaturmukh Shivlinga, which has four faces. A notable ritual here includes a bloodless goat sacrifice. \

5. Shri Mahavir Swami Jain Temple, Pawapuri

This revered Jain pilgrimage site is where Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, achieved Nirvana. The temple is located in the center of a lake, offering a tranquil and beautiful environment. It holds great importance for both Digambara and Shwetambara Jains, attracting many followers each year.

6. Maa Sheetla Temple, Patna

This temple is dedicated to Goddess Sheetla, who is believed to heal and prevent illnesses, particularly smallpox. It is a favored worship site for those seeking health and wellness blessings. With a rich history, the temple is deeply embedded in local traditions, where people come to pray for their own health and that of their loved ones.

7. Mahavir Mandir, Patna

This well-known Hanuman temple is situated in the center of Patna. It ranks among the most frequented temples in Bihar, revered for its strong deity. The temple is also recognized for its charitable work, including operating hospitals. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations.

8. Baba Harihar Nath Temple, Sonepur

This temple is uniquely dedicated to both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, representing their unity. It gains particular attention during the Sonepur Cattle Fair, one of the largest animal fairs in Asia. The temple’s history is tied to the tale of Gajendra Moksha, where Lord Vishnu rescued an elephant from a crocodile.

9. Deo Surya Mandir

This ancient sun temple is celebrated for its stunning architecture and spiritual importance. It boasts detailed stone carvings and sculptures. Many visitors come here to worship the sun god. The temple has a rich and lengthy history.

10. Janki Temple, Sitamarhi

This temple is dedicated to Goddess Sita (Janki) and is believed to be her birthplace. It serves as an important pilgrimage destination for followers of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. The temple and its surroundings are linked to various stories from the Ramayana, making it significant for devotees of Lord Rama.

Best Time to Visit Temples in Bihar

• October to March: Best time due to pleasant weather.
• Special Festivals: Chhath Puja, Mahashivratri, Ram Navami, Durga Puja.

How to Reach These Temples

• By Air: Patna Airport (Jay Prakash Narayan Airport) is the nearest major airport.
• By Train: Well-connected railway stations in Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Muzaffarpur.
• By Road: Bihar has excellent road connectivity via national and state highways.

Unique Rituals and Festivals

• Chhath Puja: Dedicated to Sun God, widely celebrated in Bihar’s Sun temples.
• Shraddha (Pind Daan) in Gaya: A major ritual performed at Vishnupada Temple.
• Mahashivratri at Mundeshwari Temple: Grand celebrations attracting thousands of devotees.

Lesser-Known but Sacred Temples

1.Mahavir Mandir, Patna

This well-known Hanuman temple is situated in the centre of Patna. It ranks among the most frequented temples in Bihar, revered for its strong deity. The temple is also recognized for its charitable work, including operating hospitals. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations.

2. Baba Harihar Nath Temple, Sonepur

This temple is uniquely dedicated to both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, representing their unity. It gains particular attention during the Sonepur Cattle Fair, one of the largest animal fairs in Asia. The temple’s history is tied to the tale of Gajendra Moksha, where Lord Vishnu rescued an elephant from a crocodile.

3.  Deo Surya Mandir

This ancient sun temple is celebrated for its stunning architecture and spiritual importance. It boasts detailed stone carvings and sculptures. Many visitors come here to worship the sun god. The temple has a rich and lengthy history.

4. Janki Temple, Sitamarhi

This temple is dedicated to Goddess Sita (Janki) and is believed to be her birthplace. It serves as an important pilgrimage destination for followers of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. The temple and its surroundings are linked to various stories from the Ramayana, making it significant for devotees of Lord Rama.

Local Cuisine and Stay Options

• Famous Foods: Litti Chokha, Thekua, Sattu Paratha, Kala Jamun.
• Stay Options: Budget hotels, dharamshalas, and premium accommodations in Patna and Gaya.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is the oldest temple in Bihar?

Mundeshwari Temple in Kaimur is considered the oldest functional temple in India.

2. What is the most famous temple in Bihar?

Vishnupada Temple in Gaya is one of the most famous temples in Bihar.

3. Which temple is best for Chhath Puja in Bihar?

Sun Temple in Deo, Aurangabad, is the most famous temple for Chhath Puja celebrations.

4. What is the significance of Vishnupada Temple?

It is believed to house Lord Vishnu’s footprint and is an important site for ancestral rituals.

5. Are there any Jain temples in Bihar?

Yes, Bihar is home to many Jain temples, including those in Rajgir and Pawapuri.

6. How can I plan a temple tour in Bihar?

You can plan a temple tour via well-connected roads, railways, and air routes, with Patna and Gaya as central hubs.