Things To Do
in Naruār
Naruār is a historic town in Bihar where ancient Buddhist heritage meets vibrant street life. The city sits along a river bend and folds in centuries of trade, learning, and craft across its lanes. Visitors wander through age-old courtyards, sample regional cuisine from lively stalls, and watch artisans shape clay, cloth, and wood.
With a relaxed tempo and friendly locals, Naruār offers a window into a developing Indian town that cherishes its past while embracing the present.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the ancient temples of Naruār, where the intricate carvings and statues narrate the tales of yore. A local guide will share insights about the historical significance of each monument, enriching your understanding of this vibrant culture. After immersing yourself in history, enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby eatery, where you can taste local delicacies.
In the afternoon, participate in a cultural workshop where you can learn traditional crafts like pottery or weaving. Engaging with local artisans will not only enhance your appreciation of their skills but also offer you a chance to create your own souvenir. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the local market, sampling street food and purchasing handmade goods.
As night falls, head to the lakeside for a serene view of the sunset reflecting on the water. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can savor local cuisine while soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Conclude your day with a stroll under the stars, perhaps stumbling upon a local performance art show that showcases Naruār's artistic flair.
Begin your day with a trek through the picturesque hills surrounding Naruār, where you can witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The fresh air and morning sun will invigorate you as you navigate the scenic trails. A picnic breakfast in nature will add to the experience, allowing you to relish the tranquility.
After the trek, participate in a thrilling river rafting adventure on the nearby river, navigating through gentle rapids and enjoying the stunning landscape around you. The adrenaline rush combined with the natural beauty will create lasting memories. Post rafting, indulge in a hearty lunch at a riverside café, where you can discuss your thrilling experience with fellow adventurers.
Wind down your adventurous day by returning to town and visiting a local tea house to sample some of the region's finest brews. Engage in conversations with locals, who can share stories about the land and its traditions. End the night by attending a local music performance, where you can experience the vibrant rhythms and dances unique to Naruār.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚶Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| 🥤Soft drink or bottled water | $0.5-1.5 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and spiritual sites
- Affordable street food and lodging
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds and variable road conditions
- "Namaste" - Hello/Good day
- "Aap kaise ho?" - How are you?
- "Mujhe madad chahiye." - I need help.
- "Kahaan hai?" - Where is it?
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Kripya dheere boliye." - Please speak slowly.
- "Mujhe chai chahiye." - I would like tea.
Places to Visit in Naruār
Visit one of these nice places.
Sweeping views over the valley with sunrise and golden hour light; great for silhouette shots of the hills and temples.
Cobblestone lanes framing traditional homes and market life; capture daily routines and color-washed façades.
Stairways to the river with boats, fishermen nets, and evening glow—ideal for candid portraits and long-exposure water shots.
Ancient stonework and monastic arches that evoke centuries of learning and pilgrimage.
A serene stupa perched above the town offering panoramic cityscape photography and tranquil sunset shots.
Food in Naruār
Naruār Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Charred wheat flour balls stuffed with sattu, served with mashed roasted vegetables (chokha). Best found at street stalls and small eateries across the Old Town.
Must-Try!
Parathas stuffed with roasted chickpea flour and spices, commonly eaten as a filling breakfast or lunch.
Rice or wheat flour dumplings filled with spiced lentil dal, steamed or fried.
A festive, crisp wheat flour cookie flavored with jaggery or palm sugar, popular during festivals and available at bakeries and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market square where you can sample litti chokha, chaat, spicy pakoras, and fresh jaggery sweets.
Evening stalls along the riverfront offering grilled corn, samosas, lassi, and bhujia with views of the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove shoes where required and ask before taking photos of people or religious artifacts.
Use a polite form of greeting (Namaste). Address elders with courteous titles; avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Hindi is widely understood; learning a few phrases in Hindi helps with locals’ hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Naruār
Ensure a smooth experience
In eateries, a 5–10% tip is appreciated if service is not included. For guides, a small amount at the end of the tour is common.
Cash remains widely used for markets. Digital payments (UPI, wallets) are increasingly accepted at larger eateries and hotels; cards work in major establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days (often 35–42°C/95–108°F). Carry water, wear light clothing, and schedule outdoor activities early or late to avoid peak heat.
July–September brings heavy rainfall and high humidity; plan indoor visits during downpours and expect damp streets and lush greenery.
Pleasant and mild (roughly 10–25°C/50–77°F); ideal for walking tours and photography, with cool mornings and comfortable afternoons.
Naruār at Night
Hiking in Naruār
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hills with ancient ruins, viewpoints, and forest trails suitable for a half-day hike.
Calm paths around historic monasteries and scenic countryside; great for photography and birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Naruār by plane.
Major domestic and some international flights; best connected to major Indian cities; from the airport, a 2–3 hour drive/ride to Naruār.
Gateway for Buddhist circuit travelers; located about 110–130 km away by road; connects to several Indian metros and a few international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A portion of residents are enrolled in regional colleges or visiting scholars around Nalanda/Rajgir.
Rural communities with a strong handloom, pottery, and agricultural background.
A diverse urban mix with religious and cultural events throughout the year.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the dominant sport, with matches and pickup games common in parks and schools.
Popular in schools and local clubs; weekend matches in public grounds.
Traditional sport with local leagues and demonstrations in cultural centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Naruār.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In vegetarian-friendly Bihar, most dishes are plant-based or easily adapted; request no ghee or opt for dal and veggie curries; carry snacks if you have specific restrictions.