Darbhanga, India
Region: Bihar
Geographic Coordinates: 26.170000, 85.900000
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 35.0°C (68°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 380125
Language: Hindi
Darbhanga is a city located in the northern part of the Indian state of Bihar. It is situated on the banks of river Kamla, Which flows through the city and adds to its beauty. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its historical significance, Traditional art forms, And educational institutions. One of the most prominent attractions in Darbhanga is Raj Darbhanga Palace. This palace was built by Maharaja Lakshmeshwar Singh in 1917 and is an excellent example of Mughal-Rajput architecture.
It has now been converted into a museum that showcases various artifacts from ancient times, Including paintings, Sculptures, Coins, Weapons, And manuscripts. Another must-visit destination in Darbhanga is Shyama Kali Temple. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and attracts thousands of devotees every year during festivals like Navratri. The temple’s architecture reflects traditional Hindu style with intricate carvings on walls depicting various scenes from Hindu mythology. The city also boasts several other temples like Hanuman Mandir, Ram Mandir, Shiv Mandir among others that are worth visiting for their architectural beauty as well as religious significance.
Darbhanga has been an important center for learning since ancient times with many scholars hailing from this region. There are several educational institutions here including Lalit Narayan Mithila University (LNMU), Which offers courses in various fields such as arts, Science & commerce streams. The people of Darbhanga are known for their love for music and dance forms like Maithili folk songs & dances such as Jhijhiya & Jat-Jatin among others that have been passed down over generations.
In addition to these cultural attractions and traditions; Darbhanga also boasts some stunning natural scenery including lush green fields stretching across miles along with beautiful riverside views making it an ideal destination for nature lovers too! Overall, Darbhanga is a city that offers a perfect blend of ancient history, Culture, And modern education. It is an excellent place for tourists to explore and learn about the rich heritage of India while enjoying its natural beauty.
- Darbhanga Palace
- Maa Kali Mandir
- Shyama Temple
- Ahilya Asthan Temple
- Chandradhari Museum
- Mahinam-Mahadeo Temple
- Holy Rosary Church
- Kusheshwar Asthan Bird Sanctuary
- Kankali Temple
- Tomb of Makhdoom Baba
- Agriculture
- Textile manufacturing
- Handloom weaving
- Food processing
- Pharmaceuticals
- Education
- Healthcare services
The city is known for:
- Production of silk sarees and other textiles
- Cultivation of rice, wheat, sugarcane and vegetables
Darbhanga has:
- Several hospitals and clinics that provide healthcare services to the people of the region
- A number of educational institutions including universities and colleges that offer courses in various fields such as engineering, medicine, law etc.
- Darbhanga Kingdom: Darbhanga was once the seat of the powerful Rajput dynasty, which ruled over a large part of Bihar and Bengal during the medieval period.
- Maharaja Lakshmeshwar Singh: Maharaja Lakshmeshwar Singh was one of the most prominent rulers of Darbhanga. He was known for his philanthropic work, particularly in education and healthcare.
- Kameshwar Singh: Kameshwar Singh was another notable ruler of Darbhanga who played an important role in India’s struggle for independence.
- Ram Dayal Munda: Ram Dayal Munda is a renowned tribal leader from Bihar who hails from Darbhanga district. He is known for his contribution to the promotion of tribal culture and languages.
- Maithili Language Movement: The Maithili language movement, which aimed to promote and preserve Maithili language and culture, had its roots in Darbhanga district.
- Establishment of Lalit Narayan Mithila University: Lalit Narayan Mithila University (LNMU), one of the premier universities in Bihar, was established in 1972 with its headquarters located at Darbhanga.
- Sita Temple at Sitamarhi: Sitamarhi is a town located near Darbhanga that is associated with Sita, wife of Lord Rama from Hindu mythology.
- Madhubani Paintings: Madhubani paintings are a traditional art form that originated in Madhubani district (formerly part of Darbhanga)and are now famous all over India and abroad.
- Bihar Movement : The Bihar Movement also called JP Movement or Total Revolution began as a student movement in Bihar against misrule by Congress party government led by Chief Minister Siddhartha Shankar Ray.
- Shyama Temple
- Kankali Temple
- Darbhanga Fort
- Ahilya Asthan Museum
- Mazar of Makhdoom Baba
- Chandradhari Museum and Art Gallery
- Maharaja Laxmiswar Singh Memorial Hall
- Kali Mandir
- Ramakrishna Mission Ashram
- Baba Garibnath Temple
- Chhath Puja is the most significant festival celebrated in Darbhanga and the entire state of Bihar. It is dedicated to Sun God and celebrated with great enthusiasm.
- Saraswati Puja celebrates the goddess of learning, Saraswati. Students offer prayers seeking blessings for success in their academic pursuits.
- Makar Sankranti marks the beginning of a new year according to the Hindu calendar and celebrated with kite flying, feasting, and bonfires.
- Holi is also celebrated in Darbhanga with great fervor by people throwing colored powders at each other.
- Durga Puja is a ten-day-long festival that celebrates Goddess Durga’s victory over evil forces; it involves elaborate pandal decorations, cultural programs, and feasting.
- Ram Navami commemorates Lord Rama’s birth anniversary; it is marked by fasting followed by feasting at home or community gatherings.
- Diwali- The Festival of Lights- Celebrated across India; this five-day-long celebration signifies good over evil through lighting lamps (diyas), exchanging sweets & gifts among family & friends.
- Bihar Diwas- Celebrated on 22nd March every year to commemorate Bihar’s separation from Bengal Presidency in 1912.
- Litti Chokha: A traditional dish made with roasted wheat balls stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour), served with mashed potatoes and eggplant.
- Fish Curry: Made with fresh fish cooked in a spicy tomato-based gravy.
- Dal Pitha: Dumplings made of rice flour filled with lentil paste and steamed, served with chutney.
- Bihari Kebabs: Minced meat mixed with spices and grilled on skewers.
- Khaja: A sweet pastry made of layered dough fried in ghee and soaked in sugar syrup.
- Rajendra Sweets & Restaurant
- The Red Chillies Restaurant
- Nimi’s Kitchen
- Anandam Restaurant
- Hotel Shyama Regency
- Chandradhari Museum Park is a cultural heritage site located near Darbhanga Railway Station that showcases Mithila’s rich history.
- Gandhi Maidan is a spacious square in the heart of Darbhanga city where various cultural and sports events are held.
- Lalit Narayan Mithila University Campus boasts vast green spaces with gardens, fountains, and walking tracks for visitors to enjoy.
- Kusheshwar Asthan Bird Sanctuary on the banks of River Kamla provides an excellent opportunity for bird watching and nature walks.
- Kankali Temple Park near Kankali Temple in Darbhanga city has a playground for children to play.
- Hanuman Nagar Park is another popular public park in Darbhanga that offers walking tracks, playgrounds, and picnic spots for families to enjoy.
- Baidyanath Dham Temple Complex has sprawling gardens with fountains that offer visitors a peaceful environment to relax in.
- Chhaprar Lake is an artificial lake outside the city limits of Darbhanga that offers boating facilities to visitors.
- Sati Asthan Mandir Park surrounds Sati Asthan Mandir, one of Bihar state’s oldest temples.
- Jalebi Chowk Market Area features street food vendors selling local delicacies like samosas and jalebis, making it an ideal spot for foodies visiting Darbhanga city.
Some popular restaurants to try these dishes in Darbhanga are:
