Things To Do
in Silao

Silao, India is a small town located in the state of Bihar, known for its rich history and cultural significance. It is particularly famous for the nearby Nalanda University ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once a prominent center of learning. The town also boasts of serene landscapes and a local community that reflects the traditional lifestyles of rural India.

Visitors to Silao can expect a warm welcome and an authentic experience of Indian heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Silao
morning
:

Visit the Nalanda University ruins to explore the ancient educational complex and learn about its historical significance.

afternoon
:

Head to the Nalanda Archaeological Museum to view artifacts and exhibits related to the ancient university.

evening
:

Stroll through the local markets and enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning walk through the beautiful fields surrounding Silao, experiencing the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby town of Rajgir, known for its hot springs and the scenic Vulture Peak.

evening
:

Attend a local cultural performance or enjoy a quiet evening at a café in Silao.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$5
🛵Local Transportation (one way)$0.50
🥤Bottle of Water$0.20
🏨Budget Hotel (per night)$10
🍦Ice Cream$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Affordable travel destination with low living costs.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Public transport may not be very reliable.
  • Language barrier for non-Hindi speakers.
  • "Namaste" - Hello
  • "Shukriya" - Thank you
  • "Kripya" - Please
  • "Aap kaise hain?" - How are you?
  • "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help

Places to Visit in Silao

Visit one of these nice places.

Nalanda University Ruins

Capture the grandeur of ancient architecture amidst lush greenery, perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Vulture Peak (Rajgir)

A scenic spot offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, ideal for landscape photography.

Local Markets

Vibrant and colorful, the local markets provide excellent opportunities to photograph daily life and traditional crafts.

Culinary Guide

Food in Silao

Silao offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Bihar. From traditional sweets to hearty meals, food lovers will find plenty to savor.

Silao Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Litti Chokha

A traditional Bihari dish consisting of whole wheat balls stuffed with roasted gram flour, served with mashed spiced vegetables.

Must-Try!

Sattu Paratha

Flatbread made with roasted gram flour, often served with pickles and yogurt.

Thekua

A sweet snack made from wheat flour, jaggery, and coconut, deep-fried until golden brown.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Silao Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local snacks. Street vendors offer a variety of quick bites that are both delicious and affordable.

Climate Guide

Weather

Silao experiences a tropical climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. Summers can be hot, reaching up to 40°C, while the monsoon season brings heavy rains and high humidity from June to September. Autumn and spring are mild and pleasant, offering comfortable weather for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Always be respectful when visiting temples or religious sites; follow local customs and dress modestly.

Greetings

A simple 'Namaste' with folded hands is a common greeting; it shows respect and friendliness.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it is customary to eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean.

Safety Guide

Safety

Silao is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. It's also important to be aware of local customs and dress modestly to avoid drawing unwanted attention.

Tipping in Silao

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is generally appreciated in restaurants; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, mobile wallets and digital payments are becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Expect cool temperatures, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Spring (March - May)

Warm weather with blooming flora; perfect for exploring nature and enjoying the outdoors.

Monsoon (June - September)

Heavy rainfall is common; be prepared for wet conditions and possible travel disruptions.

Autumn (October - November)

Mild temperatures and clear skies make it a great time for exploration and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Silao at Night

Silao's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger Indian cities. Most activities take place in local cafes and small restaurants, where visitors can enjoy casual dining and engage with locals. Cultural events and festivals may also provide nighttime entertainment, showcasing traditional music and dance.

Hiking in Silao

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rajgir Hills Trail

A scenic hiking trail through the Rajgir Hills, offering stunning views and opportunities to explore ancient ruins along the way.

Brahmayoni Hill

A moderate hike leading to a hilltop temple, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Silao by plane.

Gaya Airport (GAY)

The nearest airport to Silao, located approximately 100 km away. It offers limited domestic flights and serves as a gateway for tourists visiting Bodh Gaya and the surrounding areas.

Getting Around

Walkability

Silao is a walkable town, especially in the areas surrounding the historical sites and markets. Sidewalks are generally available, and the pace of life is leisurely, allowing visitors to explore the town on foot comfortably. However, some areas may lack proper pedestrian infrastructure, so caution is advised while navigating busier streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bihari Community

The majority demographic, known for their agriculture-based lifestyle and rich cultural traditions.

Student Population

Silao attracts students due to its proximity to historic educational sites, creating a youthful and dynamic atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

A beloved sport in India, cricket is played in streets and fields across Silao, with local teams often organizing matches.

Kabaddi

A traditional Indian sport that involves tag and wrestling, kabaddi is popular among the local youth, especially during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Silao is generally light, with fewer vehicles compared to larger cities. Most roads are narrow, so patience is required during peak hours. Public transportation options include auto-rickshaws and local buses, which are affordable but may not always run on schedule.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Silao.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Bihar is predominantly vegetarian, and many restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian dishes to accommodate dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options may be limited, dishes like rice and lentils are commonly available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Silao are limited, with a few local clinics and pharmacies available. For serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Nalanda or Patna, where better hospitals and specialized care can be found. It is recommended for travelers to carry basic medical supplies and travel insurance.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide