Know About Bihar: History, Culture, Education, Colleges and Career Scope
Bihar is one of the oldest and most historic parts of India, and it is also a state with a growing education sector. If you want to know about Bihar before choosing a college, a career or even a travel plan, this guide is for you. It explains the state’s history, culture, famous places, institutes, courses, entrance exams and career scope in simple words.
Bihar at a Glance
- Capital: Patna
- Major river: The Ganga flows through the state, along with the Kosi, Gandak and Son
- Main languages: Hindi, along with Maithili, Bhojpuri, Magahi and Urdu
- Known for: Ancient history, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikh heritage, folk art and festivals
- Major cities: Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga
- Famous crops and produce: Litchi, makhana (fox nut), mango and maize
History and Culture of Bihar
Bihar has played a major role in Indian history. In ancient times, the region was the centre of the Magadha kingdom, which later grew into great empires. Patna, then known as Pataliputra, was an important capital in those days.
The state is also deeply linked with spiritual history. Bodh Gaya is where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Vaishali and Pawapuri are closely linked with Jainism. Patna Sahib is an important place for the Sikh community because of its link with Guru Gobind Singh.
Bihar was also home to Nalanda, one of the world’s oldest centres of learning, which attracted students from many countries. This long tradition of education is a proud part of the state’s identity.
Festivals, Art and Food
- Chhath Puja: The most important festival of Bihar, dedicated to the Sun God
- Sonepur Mela: A well-known fair held near the Ganga
- Madhubani painting: A famous folk art form from the Mithila region
- Food: Litti chokha, sattu-based dishes, khaja and thekua are popular
Famous Places in Bihar
Spiritual and Heritage Sites
- Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major Buddhist pilgrimage place
- Nalanda ruins: The remains of the ancient university, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Takht Sri Patna Sahib: An important Sikh gurudwara in Patna
- Vishnupad Temple, Gaya: A well-known temple in Gaya
- Vaishali: A historic site linked with Buddhism and Jainism
Nature and Other Attractions
- Rajgir: Hills, hot springs and ancient sites
- Valmiki National Park: A forest area in West Champaran
- Vikramshila: The ruins of another ancient centre of learning near Bhagalpur
Education Overview of Bihar
Bihar has a mix of central institutes, state universities, medical colleges, law universities and private colleges. Patna is the main education hub of the state. Students from many districts move to Patna to study and to prepare for competitive exams.
In recent years, the state has also seen the growth of national-level institutes in engineering, medicine and management. If you want to compare Bihar with other states, you can read our guide to study in India.
Top Educational Institutes in Bihar
Here are some well-known institutes in Bihar. Please check each official website for exact details.
| College Name | Address | City | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna | Bihta | Patna | Bihar |
| National Institute of Technology (NIT) Patna | Ashok Rajpath | Patna | Bihar |
| All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Patna | Phulwari Sharif | Patna | Bihar |
| Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bodh Gaya | Uruvela | Bodh Gaya | Bihar |
| Chanakya National Law University | Mithapur | Patna | Bihar |
| Patna University | Ashok Rajpath | Patna | Bihar |
| Nalanda University | Rajgir | Rajgir | Bihar |
| Patna Medical College and Hospital | Ashok Rajpath | Patna | Bihar |
If you are interested in management studies, you can also explore our list of MBA colleges and universities and our featured institutes.
Popular Courses in Bihar
Students in Bihar can choose from many programmes:
- Management: MBA, PGDM, BBA
- Engineering and technology: B.Tech, M.Tech
- Medical and health sciences: MBBS, nursing and allied health courses
- Law: BA LLB and LLM
- Arts, science and commerce: BA, B.Sc, B.Com, MA, M.Sc, M.Com
- Agriculture: Agriculture and allied subjects
- Teaching: B.Ed and related programmes
Courses differ from one institute to another, so always confirm on the official website.
Entrance Exams for Admission in Bihar
Many institutes in Bihar admit students through national or state-level entrance exams:
- MBA: CAT and other management entrance tests
- Engineering: JEE Main and JEE Advanced
- Medical: NEET
- Law: CLAT and other law entrance tests
- State-level admissions: Exams conducted by the Bihar Combined Entrance Competitive Examination Board for some courses
- Postgraduate technical courses: GATE
Some institutes also use a group discussion or personal interview. To understand the exams better, see our section on entrance exams. Please check the official website for the latest dates and rules.
Cost of Studying and Living in Bihar
Bihar is generally considered affordable for students compared with many metro cities. Government and central institutes usually have lower tuition fees than private institutes. Your living cost depends on your hostel or rented room, food and travel.
Fees and scholarship rules can change, so please check the official website of the institute for the latest details.
Career Scope in Bihar
Bihar offers career options in several areas:
- Government jobs and civil services: Patna is well known for competitive exam preparation, including state and national services
- Education and training: Teaching, coaching and research
- Agriculture and food processing: Litchi, makhana, maize and dairy-based work
- Healthcare: Hospitals, medical colleges and public health
- Small business and trade: Retail, services and local enterprises
- Tourism: Heritage, Buddhist and spiritual tourism
Many students from Bihar also move to larger cities for jobs after their studies, taking their skills and degrees with them.
Tips for Students Planning to Study in Bihar
- Decide your course first, then shortlist institutes.
- Check which entrance exam each institute accepts.
- Read about hostel and transport facilities.
- Keep your documents ready early.
- Visit the official website for the latest fees and admission rules.
- Plan your budget for accommodation and daily expenses.
- Take expert guidance if you are confused about options.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Bihar famous for? Bihar is famous for its ancient history, Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, Chhath Puja, Madhubani painting and litti chokha.
2. Which are the well-known institutes in Bihar? Some well-known names are IIT Patna, NIT Patna, AIIMS Patna, IIM Bodh Gaya, Chanakya National Law University and Patna University.
3. Which entrance exam is needed for MBA in Bihar? Many MBA colleges accept CAT and other management entrance tests. Please check each college website for the exact requirement.
4. Is Bihar a good place for competitive exam preparation? Patna is known as a hub for competitive exam preparation, and many students go there for coaching and self-study.
5. How can I get admission guidance for colleges in Bihar? You can contact Dronacharya for free counseling and step-by-step admission help.
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