Bihar Sharif, otherwise known as Bihar city, is a town in
Nalanda District of
Bihar. It is east of Paimer River, a tributary of the
Ganges River. In ancient times, Bihar Sharif was the capital of Magadh and Pala dynasties.
A center of Islamic architecture, Bihar Sharif boasts several magnificent mosques and tombs, popular being the tomb of Makhdum Shah Sharif-ud-din, a Muslim saint of the 14th century. Thousands of devotees visit this tomb, particularly during the Urs festival.
Other attractions are Odantapuri, the remains of a Buddhist College, and a Gupta Pillar, which dates back to the 5th century.
The cities and towns near Bihar Sharif are
Dipnagar in the west,
Soh Sarai in the north and
Tetrawan and Asthanwan in the east. Nalanda is 13 km from Bihar Sharif.
Patna Airport, 62 km away is the nearest airport.
Bihar Sharif Railway Station serves the town.
