Darbhanga, located in northern Bihar, is renowned as the cultural capital of Mithila. With its ancient palaces, vibrant festivals, and the rich tradition of Maithili language and art, Darbhanga offers a captivating blend of history and heritage. The district is a vital center for education, music, and fine arts in Bihar.
The city is famous for the majestic Darbhanga Raj (royal estate), the sprawling Raj palaces, and its proximity to important pilgrimage spots. Darbhanga serves as a window into traditional Mithila culture and hospitality, where folklore, music, and age-old customs thrive.
Blessed with fertile land and many rivers like Bagmati, Darbhanga is also an agricultural heartland. The district is well-connected and boasts a lively urban life while maintaining its traditional rural charm.
Situated at 26.15°N 85.90°E, Darbhanga covers around 2,279 sq km. It lies in the fertile plains of north Bihar, surrounded by rivers like Bagmati, Kamla, and Kareh.
Population over 40 lakhs, famous for Maithili-speaking people. Literacy rate approx. 59%. Known for harmony among various communities.
Seat of the Darbhanga Raj, home to Mithila’s royal lineage. The district is steeped in history, arts, and played a major role in Maithili language and culture promotion.
Tip: October to March is the best time to visit Darbhanga for pleasant weather and cultural festivals.
A grand palace complex showcasing colonial and Mughal architecture. A symbol of Darbhanga's royal heritage and a must-visit for history buffs.
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Famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Beautiful architecture and serene environment attract devotees and tourists year-round.
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Houses rare artifacts, paintings, and royal memorabilia. Great place for art and history lovers.
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The educational pride of the region. The campus has beautiful gardens and architectural marvels.
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Picturesque water body in the heart of Darbhanga, popular for morning walks, bird watching, and festivals like Chhath.
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Explore nearby villages for authentic Mithila paintings, folk music, and rural culture—perfect for offbeat travelers.
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Darbhanga is famous for its colorful Mithila festivals like Chhath Puja, Sama-Chakeva, and Durga Puja. Every festival is celebrated with grandeur, music, and traditional Mithila art forms.
Maithili music and folk dances are an integral part of the culture. The unique art of Madhubani painting also flourishes in the district’s villages and homes.
Darbhanga has a tradition of classical music, particularly the Darbhanga Gharana of Dhrupad. Local crafts like Maithili paintings, bamboo work, and pottery are highly valued.
Discover Darbhanga’s lively bazaars for traditional handicrafts, Mithila paintings, and delicious sweets!
The commercial hub of Darbhanga, famous for Mithila sarees, jewelry, and local sweets.
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Bustling market with traditional attire, utensils, household items, and tasty snacks.
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Traditional market for handicrafts, Mithila paintings, and regional produce. Great for authentic souvenirs!
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The iconic Bihari dish, also a staple in Mithila. Wheat balls stuffed with sattu, served with mashed potato and brinjal.
Traditional fish curry with rice—a specialty in Darbhanga due to the abundance of ponds and rivers.
Sweet delicacy made from rice flour and jaggery, enjoyed especially during festivals.
Stuffed flatbread with seasoned sattu (roasted gram flour) filling, best enjoyed with curd and chutney.
Traditional sweet dumpling filled with coconut and khoya, famous during Chhath Puja and Teej.
Cooling summer drink made with sattu, lemon, salt, and spices—perfect for the hot weather.
The ideal time is October to March, with pleasant weather and several festivals. Summers can be hot, and monsoon brings heavy rain.
Experience the vibrance of Chhath Puja, Durga Puja, and Sama-Chakeva for a true taste of Mithila culture.
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Advance booking recommended during festival season.
Darbhanga’s cultural calendar is full of vibrant fairs and festivals. Here are some you shouldn't miss!
| Festival | Month | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Chhath Puja | October / November | Prayers to Sun God at ponds and rivers, folk songs |
| Durga Puja | September / October | Decorated pandals, traditional dances, grand processions |
| Sama-Chakeva | November | Folk festival with clay toys, songs, and sister-brother rituals |
| Eid-ul-Fitr | Varies (Islamic Calendar) | Special prayers, feasts, and celebrations |
| Jitiya | September | Mothers fast for their children’s well-being |
Renowned wetland sanctuary for migratory birds and nature walks, just outside Darbhanga.
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