The Barabar Caves are located in the Jehanabad/Gaya district of Bihar (the caves are administratively linked to Jehanabad but are geographically close to Gaya). They are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India, dating back to the Mauryan period (3rd century BCE), constructed during the reign of Emperor Ashoka. The Barabar hill group has four caves: Lomas Rishi, Sudama, Visvakarma, and Karan Chaupar. They were built for the Ajivika sect, an ancient Indian religious order. The Nagarjuni Hills nearby also have three more caves. E.M. Forster based his fictional Marabar Caves in the novel 'A Passage to India' on the Barabar Caves. Nalanda district is famous for the ancient university ruins and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rohtas district in south Bihar is known for the Rohtas Fort and Rohtasgarh, but not the Barabar Caves. Jamui is a district in south Bihar with tribal heritage but has no connection with the Barabar Caves. These caves are an important ASI-protected monument and a rare example of Mauryan rock-cut architecture.
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Bihar is famous for being the center of ancient kingdoms such as Magadha, the Maurya Empire, and the Gupta Empire. It is also known for Nalanda University and its contribution to Buddhism and Jainism.
Patna is the capital city of Bihar and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It was historically known as Pataliputra.
Bihar was established as a separate province on 22 March 1912 after being separated from the Bengal Presidency. This day is celebrated as Bihar Diwas every year.
The Ganga, Kosi, Gandak, Son, Bagmati, and Punpun rivers are among the most important rivers of Bihar. These rivers play a crucial role in agriculture and the state's economy.
Questions related to Bihar's history, geography, culture, economy, rivers, districts, and famous personalities are frequently asked in BPSC, Bihar Police, SSC, Railway, Banking, and other government exams.
Chhath Puja is the most important and widely celebrated festival in Bihar. It is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.
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