Things To Do
in Buxar
Buxar is a historic town in Bihar set on the banks of the Ganges, where ancient and colonial eras mingle with rural life. It carries a storied past, including battles and temples, reflected in its age-old architecture and riverfront scenery. The town offers laid-back markets, devotional sites, and warm, welcoming locals who are proud of their local traditions.
It serves as a compact base for exploring the broader Anga region and the rural landscapes of eastern Bihar.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Buxar Fort, where you can explore the remnants of this historical site that dates back to the 18th century. As you wander through the fort’s ruins, take in the panoramic views of the Ganges River and the lush landscape surrounding it. Don't forget to capture some stunning photographs as the morning light casts a golden hue over the fort's stone walls.
After a hearty lunch at a local eatery, head to the nearby Karamnasha River, known for its serene beauty and spiritual significance. Spend some time by the riverbank, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride and observe the local fishing practices. Engage with friendly locals who are often happy to share stories about the river's importance in their daily lives.
As the sun sets, visit the famous Brahmavart Ghat, a sacred spot for many devotees. Here, you can witness evening aarti, a beautiful ceremony involving the lighting of lamps and chanting of hymns, creating a magical atmosphere. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll along the Ganges, allowing the soothing sounds of the river to wash over you.
Begin your day with a visit to the revered Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. The serene ambiance and intricately carved architecture will leave you in awe as you immerse yourself in the spiritual energy of the place. Spend some time meditating or simply enjoying the tranquility before the crowds arrive.
After a delicious lunch featuring local cuisine, head over to the historic site of the Ghatotkacha Temple, which is steeped in mythology. As you explore the temple, learn about the legends associated with the epic Mahabharata and how this site plays a role in local folklore. Take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship of the temple’s architecture and the beauty of its surroundings.
Wrap up your day at the serene Buxar Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful sunset. The mesmerizing colors reflecting off the water create a perfect backdrop for relaxation. You may even opt for a small picnic by the lakeside, indulging in snacks and enjoying the calm of the evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $15-25 |
| 🚲Local auto/cycle rickshaw ride (short trip) | $1-3 |
| ☕Tea or coffee at a cafe | $1-2 |
| 🛍️Snacks and street food | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich heritage and river scenery
- Low-cost, authentic Bihar experience
- Friendly locals and easy day trips from the town
- Limited nightlife and modern entertainment
- Fewer large-scale tourist facilities
- Occasional infrastructure and road quality varies
- "Namaste" - Hello/Good day
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Aapka naam kya hai?" - What is your name?
- "Kripya madad kijiye" - Please help me
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Mujhe samajh nahi aaya" - I didn’t understand
- "Mujhe khaana pasand hai" - I like the food
Places to Visit in Buxar
Visit one of these nice places.
The Ganges at first light offers a golden panorama with silhouettes of local boats and fishermen, ideal for wide-shots and silhouettes.
Rugged walls, courtyards, and vantage points provide texture-rich compositions with the town’s skyline in the background.
Colorful storefronts, busy markets, and heritage architecture create lively street photography opportunities.
Food in Buxar
Buxar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted dough balls stuffed with sattu served with chokha made from roasted eggplant, tomato, and potatoes; a quintessential Bihari staple found in most local eateries.
Must-Try!
Parathas filled with spiced roasted chickpea flour (sattu) and served with yogurt, pickle, or chutney.
Rice served with dal and a selection of seasonal vegetable curries; a comforting, everyday staple.
A gentle rice-and-lentil dish paired with a yogurt-based kadhi, ideal for a light, satisfying meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main market lanes offer chaat, fried snacks, sweets, chiwda, and locally loved quick bites; great for sampling regional flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful Namaste is common. Use polite language and a friendly tone when interacting with locals.
Dress modestly and remove footwear where required. Seek permission before taking photos inside religious sites.
Public displays of affection are frowned upon in many areas; resist loud behavior in sacred or formal spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Buxar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants and for guides or porters—around 5-10% if service isn’t included. Small tips for service at guesthouses or casual eateries are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries. Many places in town also accept cards or digital wallets, especially in larger establishments. For longer stays, carry small denominations for easy transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with intensities often peaking in April–June. Hydration, light clothing, sunscreen, and early-morning or late-evening activities are advisable.
Humid and rainy with uneven, sometimes slick streets. Carry a compact umbrella or raincoat; trekking is best after showers.
Mild to cool, especially in early mornings and evenings. Light jackets are helpful; comfortable for sightseeing and river views.
Buxar at Night
Hiking in Buxar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic walks along the riverbank offering good opportunities for photography and birdwatching; best in cooler mornings or late afternoons.
Moderate-length rural trails through farmland and small forests in the surrounding countryside, giving glimpses of local life and landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Buxar by plane.
The nearest major international-style airport; expect a journey of several hours by road to reach Buxar, with taxis or private car options available.
Relatively close and well-connected to several Indian cities; access to Buxar typically via road transport from Gaya.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Hindu with Muslim and other minority communities; diverse caste and rural-urban occupation mix.
Hindi and Bhojpuri are widely spoken, with local variations in dialects across neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, commonly played in schools, streets, and local grounds.
A favored recreational activity in parks and communities, especially on weekends.
Traditional and informal competitions are common in rural areas and school events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Buxar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are plentiful; most places can accommodate onions/garlic preferences if requested. When needed, opt for dal, rice, litti-chokha, and seasonal vegetables; wash and boil drinking water is advisable in simpler eateries.