Darbhanga, a city in the Indian state of Bihar, blends rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination for travellers. The city, known for its royal lineage, has many ancient monuments and palaces that reflect its glorious past. Darbhanga is also renowned for its Mithila Art, a traditional art form that adorns many homes and public spaces in the region. The city is also famous for ancient temples, monuments, beautiful ponds, royal palaces, and exotic wildlife.
Darbhanga tourism offers a unique and enriching travel experience. Explore the itinerary for a comprehensive Darbhanga travel guide to ensure an unforgettable journey into Bihar's cultural heart.
How to reach Darbhanga
- By air: Darbhanga Airport (DBR) is a domestic airport serving the city of Darbhanga, located 8 km from the city centre. It has a single terminal handling several flights to Darbhanga.
- By train: Darbhanga is easily accessible by train from major cities in India. Darbhanga Junction (DBG) is the main railway station, well-connected to cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Patna, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
- By bus: Darbhanga is well-connected to nearby cities and towns by road. State-run and private buses operate regular services to Darbhanga from cities like Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Samastipur.
- Getting around/local transport in Darbhanga:Local transport options in Darbhanga include auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, cabs, and local buses. Auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are commonly used for travelling within the city, while buses are available for longer distances and connect different parts of the city. Cab services provide a reliable way to explore the city and its surroundings.
Shyama Kali Temple
A revered temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, it is known for its spiritual ambience.
Exploration time: 1.5 hoursAhilya Asthan
Exploration time: 1 hourChandradhari Museum
Exploration time: 1 to 1.5 hoursNargona Palace
Exploration time: 4 hoursDarbhanga Fort
Exploration time: 4-5 hoursKusheshwar Sthan Bird Sanctuary
Exploration time: 1-2 hoursDarbhanga is a great place for food lovers. If you too want to satisfy the foodie inside you, visit the following eateries in the city.
Darbhanga offers many engaging activities for tourists of all ages. Explore these activities to taste the local life in the city:
October to March is considered the best time to visit Darbhanga. Since temperatures are low during this time, it is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
The primary language in Darbhanga is Maithili. The other languages spoken here are Urdu and Hindi.
Darbhanga offers a wide array of shopping delights for those looking to take a piece of its charm back home.
Where to shop
- Tara Market: Tara Market at Lal Bagh is a lively shopping destination in Darbhanga, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local charm. Bargaining is key to enjoying the shopping experience here. The market showcases the essence and culture of the city, offering a wide array of items that make for great souvenirs. From clay toys to home decor, traditional and modern jewellery, Mithila paintings, and local artefacts, there's something for everyone at Tara Market.
- Tower Chow Market: Tower Chowk Market in Darbhanga offers a wide range of local products, handicrafts, and artefacts. This bustling market is known for its traditional artworks, handlooms, bangles, and more, making it a great place to experience the local culture and shop for unique souvenirs.
- Pahee Market: One of the highlights of Pahee Market is its range of traditional items and local crafts. Visitors can find a variety of handicrafts, handloom products, and traditional clothing, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Darbhanga. The market is also known for its collection of Mithila paintings, a standard art form of the region, which makes for unique and beautiful souvenirs.
- BK Road Market: BK Road Market in Darbhanga is a busy shopping destination known for its variety of goods, from clothing and accessories to electronics and household items. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors to shop for everyday needs.
Regional festivals and special fairs are often held occasionally in Darbhanga. Here are some of them:
Darbhanga's warm hospitality and traditional charm make it a unique destination for travellers seeking an authentic cultural experience. Here are some more reasons to explore this destination:
- Maharaja Lakshmeshwar Museum: This museum is renowned for its extensive collection of artefacts, including ancient coins, sculptures, paintings, and textiles. The museum's collection gives you a glimpse into Darbhanga's rich history and cultural heritage. The artefacts are meticulously curated and displayed, offering visitors a fascinating insight into the region's artistic and historical evolution.
- Anand Bagh Palace: Anand Bagh Palace is a beautiful place in Darbhanga. You can see its grand halls, intricate carvings, and lovely gardens. The palace gives you a peek into how the royal family lived and the history of Darbhanga.One of the main reasons to visit Anand Bagh Palace is to experience its rich history and architectural beauty.
- Manokamna Temple: The Manokamna Mandir in Darbhanga is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is built entirely of white marble and has intricate carving. Prayers offered at this temple are believed to fulfil devotee’s wishes (manokamna).