Loading...

What are you looking for?

Munger

The Historic City of Forts, Yoga, and Ganges Banks

Explore More

Overview

Munger – situated on the southern bank of the Ganges in eastern Bihar – is an ancient city known for its strategic fort, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. Often referred to as the "City of Forts," Munger has been a center of power from the Mauryan period through the Mughal era to British colonial times. The city also hosts the renowned Bihar School of Yoga in Yogichak, attracting seekers from around the world.

With its historic Munger Fort, scenic Ganges ghats, and famous yoga institute, Munger offers visitors a blend of history, spirituality, and riverside beauty. Explore local markets, ancient temples, and witness the daily life unfolding along the Ganges banks.

Historical Background

  • 3rd Century BCE: Mentioned in Ashokan records; part of the Mauryan Empire.
  • 11th–12th Century CE: Flourished under the Pala dynasty; key Jain and Buddhist center.
  • 16th Century: Munger Fort expanded by Sher Shah Suri to guard river route; important Mughal outpost.
  • 17th–18th Century: Capital of the Mughal province of Bihar, with significant trade via Ganges.
  • British Era: Became a military cantonment and major indigo and sugar production hub.
  • Modern Times: Home to Bihar School of Yoga since 1964; ongoing preservation of fort and cultural sites.
Historic Munger Fort

Top Attractions in Munger

Munger Fort
Munger Fort

A massive hill-top fort originally built by the Mauryas and expanded by Sher Shah Suri. Offers panoramic views of the Ganges and city below.

Learn More
Chandika Temple
Chandika Devi Temple

A centuries-old Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Chandika, situated on Ratnagiri Hill. Major festival site during Navratri.

Learn More
Bihar School of Yoga
Bihar School of Yoga

Founded by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, this internationally renowned institute offers yoga programs, satsangs, and teacher training.

Learn More

Culture & Festivals

  • Navratri & Durga Puja: Grand celebrations at Chandika Temple with vibrant processions.
  • Chhath Puja: Devotees gather on the Ganges ghats at Bari Ghat to offer prayers to the Sun God.
  • Yoga Encounters: Regular yoga festivals and retreats organized by Bihar School of Yoga.
  • Munger Mahotsav: A local cultural fair showcasing folk music, dance, and handicrafts in winter.

Experience Munger’s blend of devotion and spiritual practice—whether attending a yoga session by the Ganges or joining festival crowds at Chandika Devi.

Food & Local Cuisine

Litti Chokha
Litti Chokha

The iconic Bihari dish—roasted wheat balls with spiced mashed vegetables—available at local street stalls.

Munger Murabba
Munger Murabba

A sweet preserve made from mangoes or other seasonal fruits, famous among locals for its tangy flavor.

Khaja
Khaja

Flaky layers of fried dough soaked in sugar syrup—popular sweet treat in Munger’s markets.

Shopping Destinations

  • Munger Market (Bazaar): Bustling local market offering textiles, jewelry, and regional handicrafts.
  • Chandika Temple Street Stalls: Vendors selling religious items, flowers, and prasads during festival season.
  • Yoga Ashram Souvenir Shop: Handcrafted yoga mats, books, and Ayurvedic products near Bihar School of Yoga.
  • Ganges Ghats Vendors: Small stalls selling sweets like khaja, murabba, and local snacks by the riverbank.

Parks & Gardens

Karpoori Thakur Smriti Van
Karpoori Thakur Smriti Van

A peaceful memorial park dedicated to former Bihar CM Karpoori Thakur, featuring landscaped gardens and walking trails.

Munger Deer Park
Munger Deer Park

A small wildlife enclosure near the fort area where spotted deer and small mammals roam in a semi-natural habitat.

How to Reach Munger

  • By Air: Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport (Patna) is approximately 225 km away; then taxi or bus to Munger.
  • By Train: Munger Junction and Jamalpur Junction connect to major cities like Patna, Bhagalpur, and Kolkata.
  • By Road: Located on NH333; regular buses and private taxis operate from Patna (110 km) and Bhagalpur (55 km).

Travel Tips

  • Best time to visit: October–March (pleasant weather and clear skies).
  • Wear comfortable footwear for exploring the hilly fort area.
  • Mornings at the Ganges ghats are peaceful—ideal for photography and boat rides.
  • Carry light layers; mornings and evenings can be cool in winter.
  • Respect local customs and temple timings, especially during festivals.

Testimonials

Ankita Sharma

“Climbing up to Munger Fort was challenging but totally worth it for the incredible views of the Ganges!”

— Ankita Sharma
Amit Kumar

“My stay at Bihar School of Yoga was transformative. The daily yoga sessions by the river were rejuvenating.”

— Amit Kumar
Neha Singh

“Witnessing Chandika Devi’s Navratri celebrations was a spiritual experience I’ll never forget.”

— Neha Singh

Explore More Around