Anupam Lake is a charming destination in Bihar that draws nature lovers and peace seekers. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquility, the lake provides an ideal getaway from the hectic city life. With its serene waters and captivating panoramas, Anupam Lake in Bihar provides a sublime backdrop for leisurely activities like picnicking, bird-watching or appreciating nature. This hidden gem of Bihar provides you the opportunity to commune with nature, taste the culture, and visit nearby historic and traditional sites.
Quick Details Of Anupam Lake In Bihar
Elevation: 100 m above the sea
Timings: 24*7
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Anupam Lake is a natural lake located within the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary in Kaimur district, Bihar, near Bhabhua. The sanctuary, covering approximately 1,342 km², is the largest in the state. Nestled in the pristine interiors of Bihar, Anupam Lake is easily reachable from the surrounding towns and cities. It is surrounded by lush greenery and is nearby to many more tourist attractions. Hence, it becomes an extremely convenient stopping point for tourists going farther into the region.
How To Reach
Photo: Anup Sadi / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest land base to the Anupam Lake in Bihar is Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna. It is situated around 90 km away. Patna is regularly connected via flights to most of the important cities across India.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Anupam Lake is Gaya, 40 km from the lake. Gaya Junction receives frequent and regular trains from various cities in India.
By Road: Anupam Lake is well-connected with nearby towns and cities. You can hire taxis, use private vehicles, or take buses to reach the lake.
Things To Do At Anupam Lake In Bihar
Here are the best things to do at Anupam Lake in Bihar to make the best during your trip:
1. Indulge In Bird Watching
Photo: Prasannavathani.D / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
At this time of year, Anupam Lake in Bihar hosts many migratory birds, a haven for all bird watchers. The quiet setting provides plenty of options; birdwatching at the lake should certainly be on the agenda. You might want to carry your binoculars and camera to spy on the brightly coloured waterfowl and other local birds in their natural habitat.
2. Enjoy Boating
Photo: Hans A. Rosbach / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The peaceful paddling on Anupam Lake’s calm waters allows you the option to rent paddle boats or boats. You can take in the magnificent views along the way, presenting awe-inspiring panoramas of lush green surroundings and hills. Boating in the lake can be a great way to soothe oneself, relax and connect with nature in an unspoiled and picturesque setting.
Places To Visit Around Anupam Lake In Bihar
Here are the best places to visit around Anupam Lake in Bihar to elevate your experiences during your vacation:
1. Mahabodhi Temple
Photo: Sumitsurai / Wikimedia Commons
Among other beautiful preserved Buddhist pilgrimage sites, the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. This temple was built in the 3rd century BCE by Emperor Ashoka and was later rehabilitated. It has an impressive pyramid-like spire reaching a height of 55 meters. Inside, a Buddha figure painted in gold shows “Bhumisparsha” mudra. The temple is surrounded by the sacred Bodhi Tree and several stupas. The place’s historical and spiritual significance invites pilgrims and tourists in quest of peace and enlightenment.
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Things To Do: Explore the Bodhi Tree, attend evening prayers
2. Vishnupad Temple
Photo: Surajkumar12111 / Wikimedia Commons
Vishnupad Temple in Gaya, Bihar is an important Hindu temple, dedicated to the deity Vishnu. It was built in the 18th century by Queen Ahilya Bai Holkar with black basalt, containing the holy footprint of Lord Vishnu called Dharamsila. The 40 cm footprint is believed to be imprinted on the sacred ground, where Lord Vishnu subdued the demon Gayasura. The sanctum of this temple has intricate carvings and sculptures of different deities. To perform ‘Pind Daan’ for their deceased ancestors is the motive for pilgrimage to this temple. The ambience of spirituality makes this temple a revered pilgrimage place.
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Things To Do: Admire the temple architecture, witness Lord Vishnu’s footprints
3. Barabar Caves
Photo: Abhisal2408 / Wikimedia Commons
Barabar Caves are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India. They date back to the Mauryan period, the 3rd century BCE. They were built by Emperor Ashoka as a retreat for the Ajivika sect. The caves have very smooth interiors and amazing artists’ work. The well-known caves are the Lomas Rishi and Sudama caves with grand entrances and chambers with perfect acoustics. The caves have interesting historical and architectural significance with the tranquil atmosphere around them. This makes them an intriguing site for participants who love history and tourists searching for ancient heritage.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Things To Do: Visit Rishi Lomas and Sudama caves, explore the rock-cut caves
4. Bodh Gaya Museum
Photo: Sumitsurai / Wikimedia Commons
Bodh Gaya Museum was established in 1956 to preserve and promote the rich cultural and religious heritage of Bodh Gaya. The museum comprises a rich display of artefacts that include terracotta tablets, bronze sculptures and stone carvings dating back to the Mauryan and Gupta periods. The prime exhibits of the Museum include Buddha statues in different postures and miniature stupas. The museum showcases relics found from around the Mahabodhi Temple during excavations. You can gain insight into the evolution of Buddhism into art and culture due to these displays.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Things To Do: See the Buddhist sculptures, admire the statues of Buddha
5. Dungeshwari Cave Temple
Photo: Hiroki Ogawa / Wikimedia Commons
The Dungeshwari Cave Temples are the serene Buddhist pilgrimage site that is 12 km away from Bodh Gaya. These are said to be the ancient caves where Siddhartha Gautama meditated for six years before attaining enlightenment. The caves house many shrines and a large golden statue of Buddha in safe meditation. There is also a Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Dungeshwari there, attesting to the religious variety of the place. The tranquil atmosphere of the Dungeshwari caves provides spiritual comfort to pilgrims and tourists to study the genesis of Buddhism through its history.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Things To Do: See the Budhha cave, meditate
Where To Stay
Photo: Kurt Kaiser / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Upon arriving at Anupam Lake in Bihar, tourists have various accommodation options according to taste and budget. Cheap local guesthouses like Gauri Guesthouse near Bodh Gaya and small hotels provide basic yet comfortable living facilities. The nearby towns have mid-range hotels that boast modern facilities and places to eat. For someone who seeks luxurious living, resorts in the area offer nicely appointed rooms and great views of scenic natural beauty. It is advisable to reserve accommodation well in advance, especially during the tourist peak season.
Where To Eat
Photo: CIMSBSP / Wikimedia Commons
The surrounding area of Anupam Lake in Bihar has individual restaurants. Food stalls to sample the traditional Bihari fare includes litti chokha, sattu paratha, and dal pitha to allow you to taste the authentic flavours of the region. Some hotels and resorts have multi-cuisine delicacies, with both Indian and Chinese and Continental food. For a more interesting outing, you should try some seasonal snacks or street food offered by small stalls dotting the lakeside. Don’t forget to try sweets like thekua and khaja for the sweet ending to your meal.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
- Summers can be hot and humid, winters cool and dry-cold. It is always wise to check the weather report before planning out the trip.
- No special permits are required to visit, although identity proof is ever a better alternative in case of securities checks.
- Tourists are expected to honour local customs and traditions. Especially when visiting religious places, modest dress is recommended.
Anupam Lake in Bihar remains an undiscovered gem offering tourists a peaceful retreat into nature. One can bird-watch, soak in the tranquillity, and visit the cultural places dotting the site of the lake. Picnicking along the banks, visiting historical sites and eating local food are things that Anupam Lake has to offer all for a perfect experience. From peace and beauty to cultural gaining, plan a visit to Anupam Lake with TripXL, an unforgettable journey into the natural beauty of Bihar.
Cover Photo: Praanshu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only