Things To Do
in Kesariyā

Kesariyā, located in the Bihar state of India, is renowned for its historical significance and rich Buddhist heritage, particularly for the Kesariya Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world. This small town is surrounded by lush green fields and offers a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural essence of India. The stupa, believed to mark the site where Buddha delivered his last sermon, attracts pilgrims and tourists alike.

Kesariyā provides a tranquil environment, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking peace and spirituality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kesariya
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kesariya Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Spend time exploring the site, learning about its historical significance.

afternoon
:

Head to the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and shop for handicrafts. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a nearby eatery.

evening
:

Visit a local temple to experience the evening prayers and rituals, followed by a relaxing stroll in the nearby gardens.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Take a guided tour of the nearby archaeological sites, including ancient ruins and local museums that showcase the region's history.

afternoon
:

Attend a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Bihar dishes, followed by lunch featuring your creations.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural performance at a local venue, experiencing traditional music and dance of the region.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$2 - $5
🛏️Budget Hotel Night$10 - $20
🏍️Bike Rental (per day)$5
🚍Local Transportation$0.50
🍵Cup of Tea$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical significance
  • Tranquil environment perfect for relaxation
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transportation may be less frequent
  • Hot summers can be uncomfortable for some
  • "नमस्ते" - Hello
  • "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
  • "कृपया" - Please
  • "आप कैसे हैं?" - How are you?
  • "मुझे नहीं समझ में आया" - I don’t understand

Places to Visit in Kesariyā

Visit one of these nice places.

Kesariya Stupa

Capture stunning shots of the magnificent stupa, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light enhances its grandeur.

Local Temples

The intricate architecture of local temples provides excellent photography opportunities, particularly for those interested in cultural photography.

Countryside Landscapes

The lush green fields surrounding Kesariya offer breathtaking landscapes, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kesariyā

Kesariyā offers a delightful array of traditional Bihari cuisine that reflects the region's agricultural heritage and local flavors.

Kesariyā Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Litti Chokha

A staple dish of Bihar, Litti Chokha consists of baked wheat balls stuffed with spiced gram flour served with mashed spiced vegetables.

Must-Try!

Sattu Paratha

Flatbreads filled with roasted gram flour, Sattu Paratha is a nutritious and flavorful option enjoyed by locals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kesariyā Market

A bustling local market where you can find a variety of street food options, fresh produce, and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kesariyā experiences a tropical climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (November to February) are mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. Summers (March to May) can be hot, often exceeding 40°C. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures, while autumn (October) sees a gradual transition to pleasant weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Religion

When visiting temples and religious sites, dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.

Greetings

A traditional greeting, 'Namaste,' with hands together is commonly used and appreciated.

Dining Etiquette

It is customary to eat with your right hand, and sharing food is a common practice.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kesariyā is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings. Be cautious of street food hygiene and consider drinking bottled water to avoid health issues.

Tipping in Kesariyā

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services, with a general guideline of 10% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but digital payments are becoming more common. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

This is the best time to visit Kesariya, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Spring (March to May)

Spring brings warmer temperatures, making it comfortable for exploration but be prepared for occasional heat waves.

Monsoon (June to September)

The area experiences heavy rainfall, which can make travel challenging. The landscape, however, becomes lush and vibrant.

Autumn (October)

October marks the transition to pleasant weather, making it a good time for cultural festivals and activities.

Nightlife Guide

Kesariyā at Night

Kesariyā offers a tranquil nightlife experience, primarily centered around local cultural events and gatherings. While there are limited bars and clubs, the evenings can be enjoyed at local eateries and by attending cultural performances that showcase traditional music and dance.

Hiking in Kesariyā

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rajgir Hills

Located about 50 km from Kesariyā, Rajgir Hills offers various hiking trails with stunning views and historical significance.

Buddha Smriti Park Trails

These trails in the park provide serene walking paths amidst lush greenery, perfect for easy hikes and leisurely strolls.

Airports

How to reach Kesariyā by plane.

Gaya Airport (GAY)

Approximately 120 km from Kesariyā, Gaya Airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest major airport, providing access to various cities across India.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kesariyā is relatively walkable, particularly around the Kesariya Stupa and local markets. The streets are generally flat and pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to explore the town at a leisurely pace. However, some areas may require caution due to traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Buddhist Community

A significant demographic group in Kesariyā, contributing to the cultural and religious landscape of the town.

Agricultural Families

Many residents are involved in agriculture, reflecting the rural lifestyle and traditions of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is immensely popular in Kesariyā, with many locals participating in informal matches in open fields.

Kabaddi

Kabaddi is a traditional sport played by many in the region, showcasing local talent and community spirit.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kesariyā is generally light, with most transportation being on two-wheelers and auto-rickshaws. Public transportation options are available but may not be as frequent as in larger cities. It's advisable to use local transport for convenience and safety.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kesariyā.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Bihari cuisine is predominantly vegetarian, making it easy for vegetarians to find suitable options.

Vegan

Many dishes can be modified to be vegan-friendly, but it's advisable to inform the chefs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Kesariyā are basic, with a few local clinics available for minor health issues. For serious medical needs, it is advisable to travel to larger cities nearby, such as Patna, which has more comprehensive healthcare services.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

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