AUOTHOURA DIH
Chandor
Bhagwanpur
30KM North West from Begusarai district headquarters
Mound – 100m x 150m x 1m
Red ware , NBP, Black Ware, Black slipped, Black polished pottery
Water Jar, Dish, Cookware, Bowl, vessels.
AGAPUR TAKIYA
Mansurchak
38 KM North West from Begusarai district headquarters
Mound
Cultivation/ Residential Building on the mound
300m x 100m x 1m
Red Ware, Red slipped ware, Dish, Cooking Vessel.
MEHDAULI
Bhagwanpur
27 KM North West from Begusarai district headquarters
Mound
Cultivation/post office
65m x 100m x 1m
Red Ware, Water jar, Cookware, open mouth vessel, storage vessel etc.
BHAWANIPUR DIH
Mansurchak
42 KM North West from Begusarai district headquarters
Mound – Temple
Cultivation/Residential building
200m x 300m x 1m
Red Ware, Dish, Bowl, Cookware, Pane, Jar, Heavy vessel for grain storage etc Tub (large open mouthed vessel).
CHITRAGUPTA TEMPLE
Bari pokhar, Kachahari Road
1/2 KM South from Begusarai Railway Station.
Temple
4.25m x 2.65m x 10m
Sculpture – Black stone (Late Pala/Rajputa), 37 cm x 65 cm
Four Handed – Left hand-upper-Book Lower-Ink Pot
Right hand-upper – Katar, Lower-Pen/Lekhani
RADHESHYAM MANDIR
Ulao
Begusarai
Situated about 6 km westward from Begusarai district headquarters.
Made by Shyam Kumari (Ulao estate) in 1857.
The temple is a superb piece of Indo- Western architecture. The main temple is based on the platform of 1m height .An open ground of 34 m x 27 m is in the middle of the entrance and the main temple.
A superb piece of painting can be seen on the walls .It seems to narrate some classical stories of the region.
28m x 18m x 20m
paintings- influenced by Rajasthani Art
Type of materials-plastered inner walls of the temple, ceiling is also decorated.
Color- multicolor, yellow, green, blue and dark red dominating.
Theme-narrating the mythological stories popular in the region A brief script in devnagari is also painted to narrate the stories. Every where the terms related to Mithila can be seen.
Advance stage of decay can be seen every where.
BIRPUR SUN TEMPLE
Birpur
14 KM North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Temple
Sculpture-stone, black, Pala
77cm x 143cm
Pointed stele, sparsely decorated having three figures-two of flying ganadherves on both sides on the top and the face of a tiger in middle of those celestial being, two hands holding two stalk of full flown lotus. Sun is standing on a big lotus throne bearing the relief of seven horses of the Devine chariot.
The sparse decoration and the pointed Stele are one of the remarkable features of this sculpture. Crown and waist girdle are the ornaments the deity is decorated with. The flank of the stele is carved with some twisted line symbolizing the emergence of sun flames. The Deity is blanked by several divine attendants like Usha Pratysha, Dandi, Pingala, Samjana, and Mahasveta.
BARI BALIA MOUND
Balia
16 KM East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound
The eastern part of the mound is almost intact while the western part is inhabitationl and coverd by grave yard at present
1200khatas
Black ware, Red ware, Muslim associated ware, black (inner) and grayish red (outer)ware, Water jar, Cooking Vessel, Storage vessel
Mica dusting on few pot shreds (surface treatment) collared and lipped vessels.
This mound must be a habitational site at the time of Shah Alauddin Bukhari in 900 hizri. The old mosque is situated on this mound as well. It is a large mound comprised of almost 1200 khatas. 690 hizri is supposed to be the time of Alauddinkhilzi troops resting 4-5 kms east from this site during some expedition. Again the place is supposed to be the mosque of Sikandar Lodi also. Finding of black ware and glazed ware is remarkable. A heart shaped metallic decorative piece having bronzish shining is particularly sight-catching. It was in the section, 10 cm deep and taken out only in pieces even after best efforts.
MASJIDE SULTANIYA
Lakhminiya
Balia
18 Km East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mosque
Represents the Moghul India When Aurangazeb was the Shahanshah. In use.
Almost maintained but needs to be protected with scientific measures.
Natural Damp. Lack of Scientific maintenance.
The present mosque is said to be built almost 300 years ago. Local sources connect it with Shah Sultan.The condition of the mosque is almost good.
Minars of this mosque represent the eight edged Firoz minar (Gaur) architecture while the top of the minar in round – edged Madarsa (Bidar) type.
Bricks and stone
20m x 8m x 8 m
Hall in front of sanctuary – 20m x 5m
Mehrab – 2m wide x 3m high
Astle – 3.6 m wide
This mosque is said to be built according to the wishes of Sheikh Sultan who settled here coming from an unknown place. As, he was a Wali (disciple) of Hazrat Sheikh Ahmad Sarhindi, the Sufi tradition entered this region. At the time of the construction of the mosque, Aurangzeb is said to be the Shahanshah of India. Since then, the mosque has been a center of regular prayer for the followers. A Popular myth widely spread among the local residents about the construction of this mosque says that it was built by a businessman (Saudagar) Ghanshyam. According to the tradition prevailing, Ghanshyam was crossing from Balia through the Ganges with his heavy load. The ship he was riding on, is said to be trapped and jammed in the river, Even after the best efforts, none was able to move the ship. At last the businessman got of the ship and managed to reach the mound on the northern flank. Here, he was in the service of Sheikh Sultan, The Sufi saint blessed him and the blessing blossomed as the coming out of the ship from the trap. Later, the businessman earned a fabulous wealth and tried to donate to the saint but the saint had nothing to do with earthly possessions. Considering Ghanshyam’s earnest request, the saint became ready to accept his wealth in the form of mosque. It is then, a mosque was built here by Ghanshyam. According to the traditions, the saint married his daughter to the businessman who had converted himself in Islam and was later known as Ghanshyam Abdullah. The Towers of Masjide Sultaniya are the evidence of this tradition.
BARI BALIA MASJID & DARGAH
Balia
16 Kms East from Begusarai district headquarters.
More then 500 years have spent since it was constructed.
Abandoned but the place is used as Mazar. Only a part of sanctuary wall can be seen in its mined position, a Mazar has been made just before the old structure. A new maszid has been constructed in the campus. This is said to be one of the oldest masjid in this region. One of the most important Sufi saint visiting eastern region of India Ishah Alauddin Bukhari (1451-1526) is believed to come here in 1493 AD. Every year ‘Ursa’ is being celebrated here. Gandhi jee had visited the Dargah in 1915.
Use of red stone and decorated bricks can be seen in the remaining wall. It is believed to be the copy of famous Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah Masjid .
HARSAI STUPA (HERSON)
(86˚10’40”/25˚36’20”)
Harsai
Manjhaul
20 Kms North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Stupa
Archaeological Site
Only one smaller Stupa of southern part seems to be intact due to thick vegetation cover. The main stupa has been cut almost to half.
Diameter – 110 m
It consist of four stupas having the largest in the centre and there equidistant smaller in three directions, one each in the west, north and south. The completely clay built stupa use to have a hard outer most surface built by bricks-dust etc. (surkhi)This Bajralepit’ stupa consists of a three strate architectures. ‘Mahavansh’ has reference of such stupas. The finding of such remarkable stupa is significant for the history of the region. It must be seen in the contexet of Buddha’s visit to Anguttarap as referred in the “Majjhim Nikaya”.
BARAIPURA CHAMUNDA ASTHAN
Birpur
14 Kms North from Begusarai district headquarters
Temple
Temple is said to be built almost 125-150 years ago.
Showing signs of deterioration
The old temple is made of bricks jointed by surkhi lime. There is no circumambulance (Pradakshina) or Verandaha. A black Chamunda is in the Garbha griha.
4m x 4 x 8m
Sculpture – Stone, Black, Pala
52cm x 1m
Two hands of the eight handed Devi are holding an elephant, Damru, vessel, dagger in three right hands which on left hand touches the lips and two other holding ’Danda’ and ‘ Munda’
Offering of ‘sindur’ is leaving signs of deterioration. Sculpture is intact.
BASAHA ASTHAN (BARAIPURA)
Birpur
14 Km North from Begusarai district headquarters
Temple
The old temple is said to be built almost 125-150 years ago. A new temple has been constructed In the year 1990 around 5 meter ahead.
Etching and scratching while offering prayer.
A brick built temple has been made 5 m ahead of the old one. The present temple bears the size 7.6 X 7.6 m. The significance of this temple is the black stone Surya and Basaha put and being offered regular prayer in the Garvagriha of size almost 3m X 3m.
Bricks, cemented
7.6 m x 7.6 m x 75 m
Sculptures – Stone, black, Pala
Sun – width – 52 cm, height 107 cm
Basaha – 107 cm length 42 cm width, 70 cm height
The sun is highly decorated. Two handed sun is accompanied by Usha and Pratyusha in the bottom. The lord is holding Lotus in his both hands.
Offering of sindur has left its impacts particularly on the sun.
SAHURI DEEH
(86˚05’16”/25˚29’00”)
Sahuri
10 Kms North – West from Begusarai district headquarters
The mound has completely got flattened due to continuous agricultural practices. There has been a dense habitation on the upper and middle parts of the mound.
Extended in almost 5 Bighas
Mound – 150m x 100m x 4m
Blackware,Red ware
cookware, water jar, plates.
Mica dusting on few potshreds, collared lip.
Sahuri deeh is almost 2 km south-east from Chanan. Inhabitation might be later in respect to Chanan. The pot ware explored from this site is remarkable. Few pieces of potshreds have thin lineal decoration on the exterior. One particular piece has two sets of five parallel lines on the exterior having leaf punching between them. Another has black and red colored rings on the exterior.
BASAHA ASTHAN MOUND
Baraipura
14 Km North from Begusarai district headquarters
The mound has a remarkable landscape having two ponds one each toward its northern and western ends. The north-west could be its peak from where one can experience the gradual sloping. The eastern part of the mound has deep cut throughout meant for leveling the agricultural land. Remains of an old dig well can be seen in this part.
Mound – 140m x 112m x 4 m
Red ware, Oranges ware, (Pots herds) only
Water jar, cooking vessel, Plate, Bowl, thick storage vessel.
There used to be a small hut like temple almost 5 m from the present structure around 125 – 150 years ago. During the construction of the present western fencing of the newly built temple in or around 1990, the remains of a structure was found almost 1 m deep in the foundation which was ultimately covered by the villagers. It is possible that the structure would be the remains of the old temple complex icons of which were later found from the tank, west to the temple. The mound might be associated with a group of temples. The sculpture of Vishnu, Sun, Basaha, Chamunda and Shiva Ling, found from or around this mound suggest that it had been a worship centre of Brahmin, Shiva and shakta followers.
BIRPUR MOUND
(83˚05’40”/25˚31’00”)
Birpur
12 Km North from Begusarai district headquarters
Mound
It is a big mound. The top is intact to some extent. Agriculture practices has been done through out the years. The middle part of the mound is inhabited with market and habitation.
Red ware, Oranges ware, Black ware, Black upper and Red (Inner) ware.
Water jar, cooking vessel, storage vessel, Plates.
It is one of the richest mounds of the district. The excavation of this site conducted in 2004 by A.I.H. and Archaeological department of G.D. College, Begusarai, with the permission granted by A.S.I., brought in light the existence of six cultural sequences. The archaeological remains collected from this site seem backing up the possibilities of this place being a famous trading centre right from Kushanas to Turk Afgan.
BHAIRAV ASTHAN
Birpur
10 Kms North from Begusarai district headquarters
Temple
Sculpture showing signs of deterioration.
Newly built temple/Structure bearing ‘Tara’ in the Garbhagriha.
Sculpture – Stone, Black, Pala.
25cm x 50 cm
A fine piece of Pala sculpture i.e. Tara is put in the newly built Temple/Structure and being offered prayer by the villagers as “Bhairav – Baba”. ‘Pancha Dayani’, Buddha decorated in the crown. The superb piece of antiquity is intact.
SAKARBASA DIH
Cheriabariarpur
34 KM North-West from Begusarai district headquarters
Mound – 300 x 270 x 1½m
Red ware, Red polished, Black, Black slipped.
Plate, water jar, Bowl, Storage ware, cook ware, lineal.
AURE DEEH
(25˚37’06”/ 86˚04’05”)
Cheriabariarpur
26 KM North-West from Begusarai district headquarters
Mound – 300 x 100 x 1½m
N.B.P., Red polished, Black ware, Red ware.
Plate, water jar, cookware, Bowl.
CHIRIYA DIH
Chiriya dih & Kamathan sculpture
Chiriya dih
Kaith
Neema Chandpura
Begusarai
16 K.M. North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Old Kola and Devki river
A Inhabitational site surrounded by cultivation all around.
Mound – village situated at mound
Sculpture
The site is a set of two intact mounds. It has a remarkable landscape. A water channel of river Kola, a stream of Devki (Dauki) flows from the west and the main bed of Devki Passes through North. The northern mound is surrounded by water sources from three sides. A water passage towards east can be seen along with the southern mound incircling it from three sides.
The habitant of the northern mound is older. In fact, the deeh used to be around Kamathan.
Mound – around 10 acres, Height – 4 m.
Sculpture – Black stone.
Lake Pala and Rajput period.
Kamathan Male deity – W 28cm, H – 36cm
Kartikaya broken – W – 20cm
Both sculpture are badly broken. The male deity placed under old Peepal at Kamathan is defaced and sitting in Lalitasan. Hands broken Kartikaya can be identified only by his Peacock (Mayur). Upper Portion broken.
Red ware (plain & polished), Black polished, burnt.
Bowl, Cook ware, Plate.
KANTI DIH
Garhkhauli
Manjhaul
Cheria Bariarpur
Begusarai
(25° 35’ 24”/86° 10’ 14”)
06 K.M. from Manjhaul.
24 K.M. from Begusarai district headquarters.
Manjhaul – Garhpura route
Water source of Kawar lies almost 1½ Km to west.
A remarkable site due to Kawar Lake. Jaimangal Garh Harsai (Harson) stupa lying in the west seems to be the largest mound in front of Kawar lake.
Mound –750m x 200m x 2m
Black slipped, Black polished, Burnt, Red ware (Plain & polised) Exterior Black, Interior Red ware,
Storage vessel, cook ware, Plate, Bowl.
GARHKHAULI
Garhkhauli
Manjhaul
Cheria Bariarpur
Begusarai
(25° 35’ 20”/86° 10’ 05”)
06 K.M. North – wast from Manjhaul.
24 K.M. north – east from Begusarai district headquarters.
The water source of Kawar lake lies just west to the site.
Mound – cultivation.
A remarkable site due to kawar lake and Jaimangal Garh in the west, Harsai (Harson) stupa in the north and a huge mound of Kantidih just in the front towards east.
Mound –500m x 200m x 2m
Pottery – Black slipped, Black polished, Gray polished, Burnt, Red ware (Plain & polised) Exterior Black, Interior Red type ware.
Storage vessel, cook ware, Plate, Deep bowl.
BODI DIH
Danauli Fulbariya
Baliya
Begusarai
15 K.M. North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Kola river.
Mound
A site of two mounds North and south with the stream of river Kola dividing it in two different setups. Southern on is having the population of down trodden people as the older northern mound has been evacuated some 35 – 40 years ago after a series of group clashes eventually having no population almost. The topology here also suggests it older then the findings.
Mound – Southern 100m x 100m x 3m
Northern 150m x 200m x 2½m
Red ware, Exterior Black Interior Black type.
Storage vessel, Plate, Bowl.
GARHI – DEORA DIH
Garhi
Gamharia
Naokothi
Begusarai
08 K.M. North – East to Manjhaul, 26 kms Begusarai (North – East) A water channel of Kawar Tal meets with Chanha river to its North and East.
The site lies to the south of Garhi village. There is a strip of low lands to its west – which use to remain full of water in rainy seasons.
Mound – 150m x 100m x 3m
Red ware, Burnt.
Storage bowl, Plate, cookware, Deep Pan, plate, Bowl, Handle of pan.
DUMARIABAD
Sakra
Garhpura
Begusarai
09 K.M. from Manjhaul, 27 kms North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 200m x 100m x 1m
Topology and landscape of the site is remarkable as it lies almost in the east of Herson stupa. Almost flattened for agricultural practices.
Black polished, Polish of burnt, Red ware, (Plain & Polished), exterior Red & interior Grey ware.
Storage vessel, storage bowl, Plate, cookware.
GANGARAHO
Mohanpur
Bakhari
Begusarai
04 K.M. South – West to Bakhari, 12 km North – East from Manjhaul, 30 Km. North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
A stream of Chanha passes to its west – North almost 1½ Km away.
Mound – 150m x 100m x 1m
Almost 100 m away from the present habitation of village, This is popularly known as ‘Bahiyar’ among the villagers. The old Dih has been flattened for Agricultural practices.
The old chanha river flows to its west and joins the stream from Kawar almost 3 Kms. South near Hemanpur.
Red ware, (Plain & Polished).
Besin, Storage vessel, storage bowl, Deep bowl, Plate, cookware.
GOLDAI JHANTI DIH, RAHUL NAGAR
Garhpura
Begusarai
03 K.M. North to Garhpura, 37 Km. North –East from Begusarai district headquarters.
River Chanha to the east and Chaur of the same river to west and south.
Mound – 150m x 100 x 2m.
The landscape of this site is remarkable. The intact mound is full of trees and some bushes. The chanha chaur lies to its west and south. The dry river bed of Chanha makes the boundary of two district- Begusarai and Samastipur.
Red ware, (Plain & Polished), Polished burnt ware.
Deep pan, Storage vessel, storage bowl, Bowl, Plate, cookware.
SHIV NAGAR DIH
Rampur
Bakhri
Begusarai
Almost 03 K.M. Westward to Bakhri, 32 Km. North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Lake popularly known as moin originated by river Chanha.
Mound
This is known as old Dih of villagers belonging to the present Shivnagar village almost 1 Km. south to this site. The remains of Chanha can be seems to its north and east. Even the Inter college seems to be a part of the mound.
Mound – 200m x 200 x 2m.
If we set aside the upper surface finding, the mound seems to be extended almost 500m. East – West and 250m. North-South, with the moan to its East across the road.
Red ware, Burnt.
Deep bowl, storage bowl, cookware.
GARHPURA MOUND
Garhpura Bazar mound
Begusarai
31 K.M. North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Dry stream bed of river Chandrabhaga to the north.
Mound
The mound seems to be intact but is densely populated. The thick habitation does not allow exploring freely and satisfactorily. In the meddle of the mound behind the Thakarwari there is a clay deposit resembling to be a stupa but the thick pottery finding from here disapproves this illusion. The old river stream bed of Chandarabhaga lies close to its Northern side. The mound with its population played an important role in the freedom struggle of the country. Babu Sri. Krishna Singh had came here to break the British Salt law responding the call of Mahatma Gandhi.
Red ware.
Storage Jar, storage bowl, Pan, Plate, cookware, Open mouthed bowl.
ASURARI DEEH
Asurari
Barauni
12 Km west from Begusarai district headquarters.
Devki, a stream of river Ganga (Dry water bed) Passes the mound.
The mound has been flattened from the western and for agricultural practices. A foot path way
from the Asurari Bihat hault main street bring one on this mound. The old Awadh Tirhut Road passes
from almost 100 m north to this mound.
Mound – 100 x 100 x 2.5 m
Red ware, Black polished ware, Red polished.
cookware, water jar, sprinkler, sacred lamp (Deep)
KANKAUL MOUND & THAKURBARI
Kankaul
2 KM North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – temple
Worship place on the mound.
Mound has been condensed to the Thakurbari place only. Dense population can be seen around
the mound.
The Thakurbari is said to be 150 years old. According to local residents a black stone sculpture used to be placed in the Garbhagriha of the temple ten to twenty years ago but now only ‘Shaligram’ is here and being worshiped.
Mound – 30 x 30 x 3 (M)
Red polished, Black polished, Red ware.
Water jar, Dish, cooking vessels.
RUDAULI DIH
Rudali
Bachwara
32 K.M. North west from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 200m x 125m x 3m.
Red ware.
Pan, Plate, Bowl, Storage vessels.
DIHI CLAY STUPA (AKAMBA DIH)
Ekamba
Chaurahi
Cheria Bariarpur
38 K.m. North from Begusarai district headquarters.
2 K.M. West from Garhpura Chowk
Herson and Dihi Stupa are of same nature. Unfortunately only two stupas remained successful in saving its existence. The local people have flattened the two other smaller stupas (Western & Northern) for agriculture purpose due to their unawareness.
Size of main central stupa – Diameter – 70 meters, Height – 8 Meters.
Southern stupa – Diameter – 50 meters, Height – 4 Meters.
Distance in between two stupas – 15 Meters
Lake in Northern side (Chandrabhaga)
CHAMAR DIH
Gopalpur
Gara
Bhagwanpur
Birpur
25K.M. North west from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 200m x 150m x 1½m.
Gray ware, Black sliped, Red ware.
Dish, Blow, cookware.
MATIHANI DIH
Matihani
Khodawanpur
Chaurahi
44 K.M. North – West from Begusarai district headquarters. (Begusarai – Rosera Road)
Mound – 500m x 300m x 1½m.
Red ware.
storage vessels, Storage Bowl, Bowl, Plate, cookware.
Matihani Dih is situated in the seasonal river bed. Amari Dih is to the West of Matihani Dih, which is
also in the same river bed. Matihani Dih is in the southern direction of the village area.
RAMPUR DIH
Rampur
Khodawandpur
Chaurahi
46K.M. North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 400m x 300m x 3m.
Red ware (Red polished and black polishing on red ware)
storage vessels, Storage jar, Bowl, Plate, cookware.
LAKHANPATI DIH
Lakhanpatti
Khodawandpur
Chaurahi
43 K.M. North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 400m x 300m x 2m.
Red ware, Burnt, Red slipped.
storage vessels, Bowl, Plate, cook ware.
NATIAHI DIH
Mortor
Malipur
Garhpura
33 K.M. North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 200m x 100m x 4m.
Red ware, Black slipped, Red ware polished.
storage bowl, open mouth vessels, Plate, cook ware.
SAWAT DIH
Sawat
Chaurahi
Khudawandpur
39 K.M. North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 450m x 300m x 3m.
Red ware, N.B.P., Black slipped, inner grey outer red ware.
storage vessels, Deep bowl, Bowl, Plate, cook ware.
KHODAWANPUR DIH
Musahri
Khodawandpur
45 K.M. North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 500m x 300m x 2m.
Red ware, N.B.P., Slipped ware.
storage vessels, Open mouth bowl, Plate, Deep bowl.
SAGI DIH
Sagi
Daulatpur
Khodawand pur
40 K.M. North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 500m x 100m x 2m.
Red ware, Black polished Red ware, Burnt.
storage vessels, Bowl, Open mouth, storage vessels.
NARAYANPIPAR
Pansalla
Chaurahi
45 K.M. North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 100m x 75m x 1½m.
Red ware, External black internal red ware, External red external grey ware.
storage vessels, Deep Bowl, Plate, Bowl.
DIHPUR
Bharaul
Agapur
Bachwara
Mound – 300m x 250m x 1½m.
Red ware Black, Polished.
Bowl, Plate, Storage vessels, cook ware, Deep Bowl, Dish.
RASHIDPUR DIH
Bachwara
Mound – 400m x 200m x 2m.
Red ware, Black ware, Black polished ware.
Bowl, Plate, Pan.
MAJHOS DIH
Majhosh
Bachwara
30 K.M. North – West from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 200m x 200m x 2m.
Red ware, Outer black, inner Red ware.
Deep bowl, Bowl, cookware.
CHILAWA DIH
Fateha
Bachwara
33 K.M. North – West from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 500m x 300m x 2m
Red ware, Black polished gray ware.
Water bowl, Dish, storage vessels, cookware.
MANIKPUR
Kaith
Nima chandpura
Begusarai
15 K.M. North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 200m x 100 x 2m.
Red ware.
The mound is almost intact with scarcely distributed house holds. The road divides it into two parts. The northern one is older and lesser populated. The landscape of this part is more remarkable with Kola stream in the North.
Black slipped, Burnt, Red ware, (Plain and Polished), Black (Internal) and red (external) type,
Bowl, storage vessels, Heavy vessel, Plate, cook ware, Lid.
SUJA MATH
Begusarai
4 KM East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Math
Caretaker – Mahanth Shankar Das
14th Century
This is said to be one of the oldest math running in this region. Mahanth Krishna Das Payohari ji Maharaj is said to be the founder. The Naokothi estate denoted ample land to it and offered its descendent to the service of the above mentioned prist as the boy was supposed to be the blessing of this math. Later Saha Suja granted a copper plate to Mahanth Naga Baba Parshu Ram ji Maharaj
According to the villagers there used to be some Astadhatu sculpture in this Thakurbari but at present nothing remarkable except the rich tradition can be seen here.
20m x 5m x 3.5m Main Building of Thakurbari.
NONPUR MOUND – BARAIPURA
Birpur
14 KM North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Balan stream towards North of the embankment join the mound.
Alluvial soil (Sand mixed)
Mound
At present the mound is a dense inhabitational site. The topmost of this mound which lies in its north-west part is the residence (ancestral) of few Nonfar/Nonia caste people.
100m x 150m x 5m
Red polished, Black polished, Red (outer) and Grey (inner) Red ware.
water jar, cooking vessels, Bowl.
VISH-HAR ASTHAN, BARAIPURA (Raivant Sculpture)
Baraipura
Birpur
14 KM North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Temple
Small temple said to be built almost 100 years ago.
Sculpture showing signs of deterioration.
sculpture–stone, Black, Pala. (W) 50cm x 1m(H)
Riding over highly caparisoned horse, Raivant is shown booted. Right hand of the deity is slightly raised and probably holding a cup. An attendant has been depicted holding a very big shaft of a parasol lifted over the head of Raivant. A dog is running under the belly of the horse.
Upper limbs – Partially destroyed.
Had it been intact a fine piece of sculpture it would have been. The rhythm of the caparisoned horse is remarkable through the craftsmanship is not up to the level displayed in some other sculptures of the region. The movement of the horse is almost touching the perfection. Among the two attendants depicted in the bottom, the front one has been holding a sword while the other in hind is playing a musical instrument.
ULAO DEEH
Begusarai
06 KM west from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound
A village / tola is situated here from hundred of years.
The mound is a dense inhabitation site. A mosque has been built on the highest portion of the mound. The famous Ankuri Nath temple is in the east.
Mound – 100 x 100 x 2.5
Red ware, Red polished ware, Burnt.
Water jar, cookware.
SANGHAUL DEEH
(86˚06’10”/25˚25’45”)
Begusarai
Habitational mound, alluvial deposit Agricultural field in the western part.
Mound
Extended between N.H.-31 and railway track. The mound is situated to the south of government polytechnic college. Two black-stone sculpture of Buddha excavated (during construction) from this mound are placed in the K.P. Jaiswal Archaeological museum of G.D. college, Begusarai. Some other badly broken Pala Sculptures are placed in the Kali temple of Sanghaul Deeh. Another such sculpture of Asthanak Buddha excavated in 2004 during a personal construction work and was managed to be kept and displayed in the same above mentioned museum.
Mound – 150m x 100m x 2.5m
Black ware, red ware, Black polished ware, Black (out side), and Red (inside) ware.
Water jar, cookware, Storage Bowl.
It is one of the most important mounds near Begusarai town. The Popular current of river Ganga widely known as Devaki used to floe from the Northern end of this mound. The potshreds explored indicate the oldness of this site. The name it self suggest that it was a centre of Buddhism during Pala period. The finding of Asthanak Buddha and a votive stupa supports this opinion.
GOPAL MANDIR @ Naubat khana, Ulao estate
Sanghaul
Begusarai
4 km west from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound
1902 made by Mrs Jayanti Kumri
Present – Gopal mandir, Jayanti Sanskrit school
Manager Ram Karan Upadhyaya made it prepared in 1902 on behalf of the Zamindar Mrs Jayanti Kurmi. A Sanskrit school is running in the southern western Part since 1906. A goshala in the southern eastern, inn (Dharamsala) in the northern east and the temple in the central part were made. The temple is still in use.
The three storied building is in advance stage of decay. An old pond is in the western side of the building. There is a secret stairway from the top floor to the eastern end of the tank.
The temple used to have 31 acres of land campus but now the sign of encroachment can be seen. The site is hardly 20-25m from N.H. 31.
Mound – 50 x 40 x 15m
Ashta Dhatu
20th century
A black Asthadhatu sculpture of Krishna is placed in the garbhagriha of the temple and being offered regular worship.
Relevant information – A mangoesta tree is in front of the Naubatkhana. The specy is supposed to be rare in this region.
BRAHMA ASTHAN KANKAUL (KANGKOL)
Kankaul
2 KM from Begusarai district headquarters.
Temple – Sculpture
The small temple is a newly built one. The remarkable feature of this site is the Blackstone sculptures being placed here. The sculptures are supposed to be found from kankaul deeh.
Sculpture – Black, Pala.
Vishnu– 29 cm (W) 70 cm (H)
Four handed Vishnu, Stele full of decoration.
Intact and offered worship regularly.
There are three pieces of black stone sculpture placed at this site. The low relief Vishnu sculpture is full of decoration. Garuda has been depicted in the pedestal. Lakshmi and Saraswati are in the two flanks.
NARSINGHPUR SOGRAHA DEEH
Sograha Barauni
Barauni
16 km from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound
Covered with urban residential structures.
This huge mound has been altered due to a number of urban development schemes. The southern part of this mound is bound by the railway track while the north by old Awadh- Tirhut road and in the west is the Deen Dayal Road, Barauni. The whole mound is divided in to two wards of Shokhara spread in about 100 Bighas. Height – 3 m
Black ware, Red ware, Red polished ware, Inner red outer black ware, inner grey outer red ware.
Water jar, cooking vessels and bowl.
The topology and the extension of the mound is remarkable. At present the river Ganga lies to the south of this site (almost 5 KM.) A current popularly known as Devaki used to emerge from Ganga and flow just east of this mound. The Awadh Tirhut Road used to pass from almost Northern foot of the mound. The height and the extension of the mound indicate the continuity of inhabitation. The potshard indicates the oldness of this site.
BAGRAHA DEEH
Sograha
1 Km. north to Sograha Deeh.
Barauni
Mound
Almost flattened due to power sub station construction and cultivation N.H. – 28 seems to divide this mound. The old stream of Devaki would be flowing from its south. This is towards east from Barauni.
100 x 75 x 2 m.
Red ware, Black ware, Black polished ware, Burnt, Outer red inner black ware.
Bowl, cookware, Jar open mouth vessels.
RAJWARA MOUND
Rajwara
Barauni
15 Km west from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound
The mound is said to be in two parts the northern part is higher while the southern is lower.
Extended in more then 5 acres (H) 2 m.
Red ware, Red polished ware, Red (Oranges’) ware, Burnt ware.
Rim of large cookware, water jar.
MARICHI STONE SCULPTURE RAJWARA GUMTI
Rajwara
Barauni
Worship Place under a tree.
Sculpture – stone.
Width – 45cm, Height – 57cm (up to neck)
Broken from the neck, the sculpture is at present out under a Peepal tree near Rajwara Railway crossing. The sides of the stele as well as the hands of the deity are broken.
There in an inscription in one line.
Seven Varahs (Pigs) seems to drag the chariot of Devi. ‘Rahu’ has been depicted in the lower part of the platform.
GARHPURA TEMPLES ( Thakurbari & Shiv Temple )
Garhpura Temple
Garhpura
Begusarai
Harigiri Dham
34 K.M.North; North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Temple
Sculpture
Thakurbari
The temple has a tradition of more than 400 years. The present Mahanth Ram Kumar Das jee is the 15th in the tradition. The temple follows a rectangular plan on a 1 m high platform. The base expands in an area of 20m x 20m with 10m wide courtyard and 20m x 10m2 main structures. The height is almost 10m. few Black stones and Astathatu sculpture are placed here.
Sun, Blackstone
Rajputa period
H – 50 cm
W – 30 cm
The sun has been bought here from Jaimangal garh. Standing Sun holding lotus in two hands. Two female figures can be seen on each side.
Male deity, Blackstone
Measurement could not be taken due to customary provisions. The Deity is holding some things in its hands.
Stone plate, Blackstone
L – 13 cm
W – 06 cm
Seems to be the plate of Saptarishi.
HARIGIRI DHAM
Temple
Almost 1½ Kms. East to Garhpura,
32 K.M. North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
This is a famous religious place in this region.
Shiv Linga, Blackstone
H – 35 cm.
Diameter – 20 cm.
It is a Mukhlinga having one face carved on the Linga.
Saraswati, Blackstone
H – 15 cm.
W – 10 cm.
BAKHARI
Begusarai
16 K.M. E N E to Manjhaul,
34 K.M. North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Bahura Mama Temple – The old temple near Bakhari Railway crossing has been renovated several times in the past. It is said to be almost 400 years old. A stone sculpture of ‘Bahurra Mama’, the famous Godhin in the local tradition, is placed in the Garbhagriha.
Bahura Godhin Shaktipeeth – Bahura Godhin is the famous character of the local folk tradition of Bakhari and its surroundings. There are a number of stories associated to her power and glory. The old belief that the famous Godhin used to perform her magical activities is still in custom. There is an old vast ‘Pakar’ tree on this Shaktipeeth. Three ‘pindis’ namely Bahura, Durga and Kamala measuring 16 cm, 20 cm and 6 cm diameters can be seen on the incircling platform. Devotees and aspirants of magical powers used to come here and fulfill there wishes.
Ram Janaki Temple – it is an old temple almost 50 m from Bahura Mama temple. Almost 15 – 16 m high ‘Shikara’ adds to its glory. An astadhatu sculpture of RamJanaki is placed in the Garbhagriha. The temple is said to be 350 years old.
Shiv Temple – It is situated almost 50 m west to Ram Janaki temple. The old Shiv temple seams to be built during the medieval period. The architecture is planned over a 4 m x 5m. platform.
JAILAKH
Shakarpura
Bakhari, Begusarai
3½ Km. North – east to Bakhari and 37½ Km. ENE from Begusarai district headquarters.
River Bagmati flowing to the north of the site.
Mound – extended in almost 50 Bighas – Height – 1½ m.
Almost 1½ Km. North – west from jailakh village, the site is almost intact. Only the upper layer of the mound has been depleted.
There is a famous Bhagwati Asthan at Jailakh, said to be more than 200 years old. Some old sculpture used to be placed in the corner of the Garbhagriha, but none was ready to speak about that. Only the mark of the stele could be seen as the evidence.
In front of the old Bhagbati Asthan there is an old Peepal tree under which a small Shiva temple almost 250 – 350 years old can be seen. A square holy tank is to its North. The site presents antique landscape.
Pottery – Red ware (Plain & polished), Burnt.
Vessels – Storage vessel, Plate, Deep bowl, Small bowl, cookware.
BIHAT TEMPLE
Bihat
Barauni, Begusarai
16 Km. south – west from Begusarai district headquarters.
The population shift of Bihat is remarkable with the population flow of upper caste people from the south across the Gangas and from the Mithilanchala. The down troddens might have evacuated the place. The temples here seem to represent cultural features.
Shiv Temple, Market – This is newer of the temples present here. The platform follows almost square plan of 4m x 4m with a raised height of almost 80 cm. The height of the shikhar is about 10 m. The temple seems to be around 100 years old.
Black Stone Basaha
15 cm x 13 cm x 7 cm
A blackstone sculpture completely defaced is also placed in the Garbhagriha.
Jageshwar Baba Temple
This is one o the oldest temple of Bihat. The temple with its dome shaped top is remarkable and said to be around 350 years old. The platform follows the square plan of 5m x 5m and its height is about 10 m.
Shiv Ling, Blackstone
Argha – 19 cm x 28 cm x 41 cm.
Linga – 23 cm (H), 28 circum.
Defaced sculpture, Black stone
(Hands clipping, completely defaced)
32 cm x 18 cm.
Broken stele, Black stone
(Advance sign of deterioration)
49 cm x 18 cm x 15 cm (Thickness)
Gauri – Shankar Temple
The 150 years old temple was renovated in 1995. The procession of Ram – Vivaha at Bihat starts from this very temple. The sculpture is newer.
Amar Das Thakurbari
The 250 years old Thakurbari was renovated in the year 1995-99. Built above a rectangular platform of 1 m. height measuring 15m x 8m. the temple has a central courtyard. The tradition here was started by Baba Sheetal Das Mahanth Amar Das Jee was the sixth saint of the tradition.
At present Mahantha Ramchandra Das holds the office.
Bhagwati Asthan
Three sets of structure at present can be seen here. The southern is the oldest and is said to be more than 200 years old. The landscape here is remarkable.
NAULA GARH
(86° 04’ 00”/25° 33’ 15”)
Naula
Birpur, Begusarai
20 Km. North, North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound
The mound is almost intact. The expansion and landscape is remarkable. The road intersets the mound in two parts. The remains of fortifications had been explored several times by A.I.H.Culture and Archaeology department of G. D. College, Begusarai. The Northern mound is remarkable for its landscape with natural and man – made water channels.
Pottery – N.B.P., Black slipped, Burnt (Plain & Polished), Red ware (Plain & Polished), Internal Black & External Red type.
Vessels – Heavy type storage vessel, water jar, Dish, cookware, small and large Plate, bowl, Deep
Pan, Flat pan etc.
It is situated only 3½ Kms. westward of the block headquarters Birpur. This enormous mound expands in almost 1½ Km. long area, right from Bhit in the East to Fansiari Tola in Makhwa panchayat in the west. Balan in the East and Bainti in the south creates a remarkable topology for the mound. Both the rivers join in the east almost 1 Km. from the centre. In fact, the mound is divided in different parts –
The central fortified area of 360 acers, 1400 acers and 800 acers.
Sodhri mound measuring 400m x 100m to the north of the Godh (fort) and
The mound of Dih and Bhit to the east of the fortified area.
The A.I.H. Culture and Archaeology Deptt. Of G. D. College, Begusarai under supervision of prof. R. K. Chowdhary had explored and surveyed this huge area in 1950-52.
A local resident Shri Ramnath Singh donated the antique collection from this mound to the museum of G. D. College, Begusarai. A black stone broken sculptures with inscription of Vigraha Pala III has been displayed in the K.P.J.A. Museum of the A.I.H. Archaeology Deptt., G. D. College, Begusarai. The concerned inscription is narrated in G. D. College, Buletin – 2.
Naulagash is remarkable for its multi-cultural sequence. A number of coins have been reported to be explored by local people during agricultural practices. The expansion and some evidence of dockyard strongly suggests this place to be the Apan Nigam mentioned in the Buddhist literature. The 200m x 100m old tank which is connected by river Bainti in the west with a 50m. wide deep channel, seems to be made for transportation purpose. It is possible that the eastern side of the tank would have been a platform for loading – unloading of goods. According to the local traditions, this particular tank used to be a secrete path of the royal family to go out side but the topology and the findings till now does not supports this hypothesis.
MANIAPPA MOUND
Chandika Asthan
Maniappa, Begusarai
07 Km. Sorth – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
River Ganga flows almost 5 Km. south from this mound
Mound – 200m x 100m x 8m.
Sculpture
This is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites close to the present bed of river Ganges. The thick habitations all around and the hemispherical top resembles to be some religious site. The present Bhumihar population has migrated here from Bihat as suggested by some residents here. The central part of the top is being cut which occupies a hemispherical shape of almost 30m. diameter. It is also full to potshreds deposit in stratus. Some coins also are said to be found during structural cutting here.
Unidentified defaced deity offering blessing to a younger/smaller one. Door panels (Broken) part of stele.
Black stone
Late pala
A number of broken black stone sculptures as well as broken pieces of stela and door frames are at present placed in the temple under a large old banyan tree, known as Chandika asthan. The tree itself seems to be almost 200 years old.
N.B.P., Black ware (plain & polished), Red black ware, Burnt, Black polished red ware, Red slipped.
Storage vessel, cookware, Bowl, Plate.
JAIMANGALPUR
(86° 09’ 18/25° 35’ 40”)
Manjhaul
Cheriya Bariyarpur
Begusarai
20 Km.South, South – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 1000 m x 800m x 5m. (Approx)
NBP, Black ware, Blackslipped red ware (Plain and Polished)
Dish, Plate, Stoagevessel , Pan , Cook ware, Water jar, Bowl, Deep Pan.
Jaimangalpur is situated on the southern flank of the vast Kawar Lake. It is poularly known as Jaimangalgarh. The topology and the height of the mound is remarkable.
Jaimangalgarh is infact a set of two mounds. The western part is separated by a chanel from the main eastern part. The eastern has evidence of fortification. It is large in size. At present the temple of mata Jaimangala, for which the site enjoys the great popularity in local tradition, is situated on this southern part. The variety of potshreds can be seen everywhere on both mounds. (N.B.P. black polished ware, Redware etc.). It seems that the fortified southern part used to remain the residential premises of the royal family whereas the northern might be associated to officials. It is important to notice that there are few other mounds across the Kawar Lake surrounding the main mound. One is towards south while the other is towards East. The cultural sequence of the both mounds seems to be almost same and both of them seem to come into existence just after the main site. The Harsan stupa is towards East and at least another two mounds namely Kanti Dih and Sakra Bad lie in the same direction. In short, at least four smaller mounds and the stupa fall in the periphera of 2 Km.
Sculpture – Black stone, Pala period.
Four handed Vishnu standing sambhanga. A well decorated crown over head. Ajamulambi Mala (garland), right lower hand exposed frontward in Abhaymudra while upper left holding the Shudarshan Chakra. Gada placed downward between the lower armpit. Upper left hand holding the shankha upward while lower holds the shrifala. Under this arm holding shrifala is sitting Garuda Dev in worshiping posture (Aradhaya mudra). The sculpture seems to represent the matured pala or Rajputa period.
SIRAIYA DIH
Chauki
Sahebpur kamal
Begusarai
30 Km. North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
It is a set of two mounds with a dry river bed intersecting through middle. Regular agricultural practice is being done at the top.
Black polished ware, Red ware, Black polished red ware.
Storage vessel, Cookware, Deep bowl, plate, Deep plate.
MARATTHA DIH
Chauki
Sahebpur kamal
Begusarai
32 K.M. North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Extended in more than 5 Bighas. Height – 2m.
Regular agricultural practice is being done on the top of the mound. To the east flows the stream of river Ha – Ha which is locally known as Maratha Dhar.
Red ware, Black polished Red ware.
Storage vessel, cookware, large bowl, Bowl, plate, Basin.
MASURIYA DIH
(86° 11’ 17/25° 27’ 22”)
Sankh
Begusarai
10 Km. North – East from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 150m x 200m x 5m.
The landscape and topology of this site is remarkable. It is situated in the western corner of the famous kola chaur, which is created by some distributaries of river Ganges like Deoki, Koyal etc. The variety of potshreds in surface finding is enough to prove this site the oldest in the region. Some of the pot – shreds seem to be representing even Neolithic culture. Water confluence here even at present catches attention. All around the Kola chaur we can locate important archaeological sites. The Black and Red ware site of Damdama is to its East. Some other sites are Kaith, SangoKothi, Cheriya Dih, Kusmahaut etc.
NBP, Blackware, Red slipped, Black slipped, Red ware.
Storage vessel, cookware, Bowl, Plate, Basin, Water jar etc. and vessels with thick and heavy core.
Important Archaeological And Tourist Sites
BIRPUR
Birpur
14 KM North from Begusarai district headquarters.
Birpur is the block headquarter of Begusarai district having a number of archaeological sites in a small periphera. Birpur, Baraipura, Naula, Bheeth, Chanan. Sahuri etc. are remarkable archaeological sites in this periphera. The sculptures at Birpur represent the matured pala and Rajputa features. The Shaiva sculpture of Raivant, Basaha and Shiva-Linga, the Brahmin sculpture of Surya and the Buddhist sculpture of Tara- all almost contemporary – display the secular nature of the region and its true religious legacy. Obviously it has the true potency of being developed as a perfect tourist complex.
Sun Temple
Sculpture-stone, black, Pala
77cm x 143cm
Pointed stele, sparsely decorated having three figures-two of flying ganadherves on both sides on the top and the face of a tiger in middle of those celestial being, two hands holding two stalk of full flown lotus. Sun is standing on a big lotus throne bearing the relief of seven horses of the Devine chariot.
The sparse decoration and the pointed Stele are one of the remarkable features of this sculpture. Crown and waist girdle are the ornaments the deity is decorated with. The flank of the stele is carved with some twisted line symbolizing the emergence of sun flames. The Deity is flanked by several divine attendants like Usha, Pratyusha, Dandi, Pingala, Samjana, and Mahashveta.
Basaha Asthan Mound and Temple
Baraipura
14 Km North from Begusarai district headquarters
The mound has a remarkable landscape having two ponds one each toward its northern and western ends. The north-west could be its peak from where one can experience the gradual sloping. The eastern part of the mound has deep cut throughout meant for leveling the agricultural land. Remains of an old dig well can be seen in this part.
Mound – 140m x 112m x 4 m
Red ware, Oranges ware, (Pots herds) only
Water jar, cooking vessel, Plate, Bowl, thick storage vessel.
There used to be a small hut like temple almost 5 m from the present structure around 125 – 150 years ago. During the construction of the present western fencing of the newly built temple in or around 1990, the remains of a structure was found almost 1 m deep in the foundation which was ultimately covered by the villagers. It is possible that the structure would be the remains of the old temple complex icons of which were later found from the tank, west to the temple. The mound might be associated with a group of temples. The sculpture of Vishnu, Sun, Basaha, Chamunda and Shiva Ling, found from or around this mound suggest that it had been a worship centre of Brahmin, Shiva and shakta followers
Temple
The old temple is said to be built almost 125-150 years ago. A new temple has been constructed In the year 1990 around 5 meter ahead.
Etching and scratching while offering prayer.
A brick built temple has been made 5 m ahead of the old one. The present temple bears the size 7.6 X 7.6 m. The significance of this temple is the black stone Surya and Basaha put and being offered regular prayer in the Garvagriha of size almost 3m X 3m.
Bricks, cemented
7.6 m x 7.6 m x 75 m
Sculptures – Stone, black, Pala
Sun – width – 52 cm, height 107 cm
Basaha – 107 cm length 42 cm width, 70 cm height
The sun is highly decorated. Two handed sun is accompanied by Usha and Pratyusha in the bottom. The lord is holding Lotus in his both hands.
Offering of sindur has left its impacts particularly on the sun.
CHANANDEEH
Sahuri
10 km North-West from Begusarai district headquarters
Mound
At present no habitation can be seen. The inhabitational site has shifted 2 Km south. The villagers have tried to level the mound from three sides. Only the top most central part has remained intact. A 4 Km wide channel touches its western end.
Mound – 225m x 175m x 8 m
Grey ware, N.B.P. ware, Black ware, Red ware, Orangies ware, Black (inner) and Red (upper) ware.
Water jar, storage vessel, Bowl, glass, cooking vessel, Tub, Plate, Lid, Single mouthed sprinkler.
The topology of this site is remarkable. The streams of Chanan seem to encircle the mound.
The Birpur mound is to the northern side from this site. The mound has been flattened on the top due to agricultural practices throughout the year. Finding of lipped and collared potware of fine fabric is remarkable. Grey ware and N.B.P. ware pots indicate its richness and oldness. The Jhanjh Bridge is towards the east- north from this site.
ROSHANHA DEEH
(25˚37’00”/86˚03’30”)
Cheriabariarpur
26 KM North – West from Begusarai district headquarters.
Mound – 300m x 275m x 2m
N.B.P., Black Slipped, Red ware, Red slipped, Grey.
Plate, water jar, cookware, Bowl, High neck dish.
KABERLAKE (Birds Sanctuary)
Manjhaul, Begusarai
It is one of the largest lake of India. It expands in a vast area of 64 square K.M. situated in the Manjhaul subdivision of the district., Jaimangalgarh is situated on the southern flank of the vast Kawar lake .Kaber lake is a shelter of hundreds of species of domestic and migrant birds. Birds from Siberia and Himalayan region can be seen here during winter season. The famous archaeologist Salim Ali resided here for his research work and was influenced with life protection Act 197 and a proclamation was made by the government to develop it as a Bird Sanctuary but years have passed with the hope in the eyes of local people.
Birds including different species of Cranes, Doves, Hawks, Fowls, Quails etc. and a variety of aquatic plants create a wonderful scene here in the winter and spring.
BIRTH PLACE OF RASHTRAKAVI RAMDHARI SINGH ‘DINKAR’
Simaria, Begusarai
The name of Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh ‘Dinkar’ (1908-74) needs no introduction to the literary – world. Begusarai is fortunate enough to produce such a star of literary sky. Simaria gram, situated at the south – eastern boundary of the district, has this glory. The house in which Dinkar was born has been renovated recently.
NAULAKKHA TEMPLE
Bishnupur, Begusarai
A renovated temple spending Rs. 9 lakhs in 1952 can be seen in Bishnupur of the district Headquarter. The renovation work was completed by Mahanth Mahavir Das. The present temple is famous for its glittering look due to use of Makrana and Italian tiles.
It is said that in the middle decade of 17th century, Mahanth Deer Das Ji of Ramanadi tradition had built a temple here. The temple is constructed in a large campus bearing area of 150m x 100m.
ANKURI NATH TEMPLE
Ulao, Begusarai
Ankuri Nath Mahadev Panch Mandir is about 4 K.M. west from Begusarai H.Q. It is about 1½ K.M. south from N.H. – 31. At present this temple bears the Panchayatan style of architecture. The original temple made of stone is in the centre. The central temple bearing a broken Shivling seems to be made during late Rajputa Period. The rectangular plan of this central architecture is important over a platform of 5m x 2.60m x. it is almost 10m high.
The temple is of Aryan style. Main temple – square 2.60m x 2.60m. The door of main sanctum is invest.
Four temples in each corner has been constructed somewhere in the 20th century.
Formerly it was known as Ankuri Nath Simaria Mahadev.
SIMARIYA MELA (Fair)
Simariya, Begusarai.
Simariya is about 20 Kms. From Begusarai District headquarters.
Situated on the Northern flank of the holy river Ganga, Simariya is the Gateway of North Bihar as far as the Railway cum roadway is concerned . The sanctity of the Ganges is unquestionable where ever it passes through but few holy- places beside it have earned more sacred identity. Simariya is one of them. The Kartika – Mela here has been recognized as State- Fair.
The Kalpavas on the bank of river Ganges has been appreciated even in the “Matsyamahapuran” ( chapter 108 ). Pilgrims from all over the Mithilanchal,West Bengal, Orissa and even from the downs of Nepal use to come here in the month long Kalpavas on the bank of Ganges. It seems that the bank of the Ganges cited in the poems of Vidyapati might be Simariya. The continuous flow of devotees from heart of Mithila to Simariya supports this assumption.
It should also be kept in mind that the famous Ankurinath temple, few miles north to Simariya , is also known as Ankurinath Simariya Mahadeva. It is possible that river Ganges used to flow from there and Simariya might have been few miles Northern