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Essential Travel Guide

Traveling to a new place comes with questions. We’ve curated honest, practical answers to help you plan with confidence.

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Is Bihar Safe?

Yes, absolutely. Perceptions lag behind reality. The tourist circuits are well-developed, policed, and host international tourists daily.

  • For Women Travelers: It is safe to travel solo. Bihar is a conservative society, so modest dressing helps you blend in and invites respect rather than stare.
  • Tourist Police: Dedicated 'Tourist Police' are deployed at all major UNESCO and heritage sites.
  • Night Travel: Major highways are safe, but as a general rule in North India, it's better to complete inter-city travel by evening (8 PM).
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First Time Expectations

  • The Vibe: It is raw, authentic, and historically dense. It is not a manicured resort experience; it is a journey into the roots of civilization.
  • Crowds: Places like Patna and religious festivals can be crowded. Bodh Gaya and Rajgir offer more serenity.
  • Hospitality: Biharis are known for their warmth. You will often be offered help, tea, or directions without expectation of reward.
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Air Connectivity

  • Patna (PAT): Jay Prakash Narayan Int'l Airport is the main gateway, well-connected to all metros.
  • Gaya (GAY): Ideal for the Buddhist Circuit (Bodh Gaya, Rajgir). International flights available from Thailand/Bhutan.
  • Darbhanga (DBR): The lifeline for North Bihar (Mithila region). Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru.
  • Bagdogra (IXB): Convenient for accessing eastern districts like Kishanganj and Purnia.
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Rail & Road

  • Major Junctions: Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and Katihar are major rail hubs.
  • Modern Trains: Vande Bharat Express now connects Patna to Ranchi, Howrah, and Lucknow/Ayodhya.
  • Road Connectivity: Highways (NH-19, NH-22) have improved drastically. Bus services (BSRTC) are reliable for inter-city travel.
  • Local Transport: E-Rickshaws (Totos) are the most convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate towns.
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Best Time to Visit

Bihar usually has extreme weather, so planning is key.

  • Oct – Mar (Peak) Pleasant days, chilly nights. Perfect for walking tours.
  • Chhath Puja (Oct/Nov) A unique cultural experience, but expect massive crowds and booked-out transport.
  • Dec – Jan (Winter) Temperatures drop to 5°C. Dense fog can delay trains/flights. Carry heavy woolens.
  • Jul – Sep (Monsoon) Lush green landscapes (especially Rohtas/Kaimur waterfalls), but rural roads can be tricky.

Cultural Etiquette

✅ Do's

  • Dress Modestly: Cover shoulders and knees, especially at religious sites (Temples & Mosques).
  • Remove Shoes: Always take off your shoes before entering a temple, stupa, or someone's home.
  • Greet with Namaste: It's the most respectful way to say hello.
  • Eat with Right Hand: If eating with hands (common for Litti Chokha!), use your right hand.

❌ Don'ts

  • Don't Photograph People without Permission: Especially women and monks. Always ask first.
  • Don't Point Feet: Pointing your feet at a religious statue or a person is considered rude.
  • PDAs: Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon in conservative areas.
🚨 Emergency Numbers
Police: 112Ambulance: 102Tourist Helpline: 1800-345-6666