Sasaram, Bihar | Tombs, Waterfalls & City Guide

Overview

Sasaram (also known as Rohtas) is the district headquarters of Rohtas district in Bihar. Located at the foothills of the Kaimur Range, Sasaram is famous for its rich historical legacy, particularly as the resting place of Emperor Sher Shah Suri. The city is surrounded by lush forests and hills, offering a unique blend of medieval architecture, natural scenery, and a lively local culture.

From the imposing ruins of Rohtas Fort to the majestic Tomb of Sher Shah Suri, Sasaram invites visitors to explore its storied past and serene landscapes. It serves as a gateway to explore the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, tribal heritage sites, and traditional Bihari life.

Historical Background

5th–6th Century CE: Region under Gupta Empire’s influence, known for early settlements.
16th Century: Became prominent under Sher Shah Suri, who built his tomb and administrative structures here.
Rohtas Fort Era: Rohtasgarh Fort built by Raja Harishchandra and later fortified by Sher Shah Suri, serving as a strategic stronghold.
British Era: Developed as a railway junction and administrative center during colonial rule.
Modern Times: District headquarters with a growing blend of history, forestry tourism, and local industry.

Top Attractions in Sasaram

Rohtas Fort

A UNESCO World Heritage candidate, this sprawling hill fort was originally built by Raja Harishchandra and later expanded by Sher Shah Suri. It offers panoramic views of the Kaimur Hills.

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Tomb of Sher Shah Suri

The majestic octagonal tomb set in a formal garden is a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture. It marks the final resting place of the great Sultan Sher Shah.

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Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary

Spread across the Kaimur Range, this sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, deer, and a variety of birds. Ideal for wildlife safaris and nature treks.

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Culture & Festivals

Chhath Puja: Celebrated with fervor on the banks of local ponds, honoring the Sun God.
Sasaram Mahotsav: A local cultural festival showcasing folk music, dance performances, and handicrafts in November.
Holi & Diwali: Vibrant celebrations with traditional music, bonfires, and local sweets like Pua and Laai.
Kaimur Mela: An annual fair at the foothills of Kaimur Sanctuary, featuring tribal crafts and agricultural exhibits.

Immerse yourself in Sasaram’s local life by attending village fairs, tribal music gatherings, and tasting seasonal Bihari delicacies.

Food & Local Cuisine

Litti Chokha

Savory baked wheat balls stuffed with spiced sattu, served with tangy mashed vegetables. A must-try staple across Sasaram’s street stalls.

Pua & Laai

Popular sweet fritters made from semolina and jaggery, often enjoyed during festivals and local fairs.

Sattu and Ghugni

Roasted gram flour drink and spicy yellow pea curry—perfect for a quick, traditional snack on warm afternoons.

Shopping Destinations

Gol Bazaar: The busiest market in Sasaram, offering textiles, household items, and local handicrafts.
Town Bazaar: Traditional stalls selling jewelry, pottery, and Bihari sweets.
Nimsi Market: Known for fresh produce, local pickles, and spice blends.
Ashrafpur Market: Famous for handcrafted baskets, bamboo products, and tribal artifacts.

Parks & Gardens

Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary

Explore dense forests, waterfalls, and wildlife safaris. Perfect for birdwatching and spotting leopards, deer, and peacocks.

Sasaram Eco Tourism Park

A serene urban park featuring walking trails, botanical displays, and picnic areas—ideal for families and nature lovers.

How to Reach Sasaram

By Air: Nearest airport is Gaya Airport (110 km from Sasaram). Patna’s Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport is about 160 km away.
By Train: Sasaram Junction is on the Delhi–Howrah main line, connecting major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Patna.
By Road: Accessible via NH 2 and NH 30. Regular state buses and private taxis connect Sasaram to Patna, Gaya, and Varanasi.

Travel Tips

Best time to visit: October–March (pleasant weather, clear skies).
Respect local customs at historical sites and during festivals.
Carry sufficient water and wear comfortable shoes for exploring hills and forts.
Most attractions open from sunrise to sunset; check entry timings for Rohtas Fort and Kaimur Sanctuary.
Wear light cotton clothing in summer, and carry a light jacket in winter mornings.

Testimonials

“Visiting the Tomb of Sher Shah Suri was a surreal experience. The architecture is breathtaking!”

— Aarti Singh

“The view from Rohtas Fort at sunrise is absolutely unforgettable. A must-visit for history buffs.”

— Rahul Verma

“Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary’s trails and waterfalls are perfect for nature lovers. We saw so many deer and birds!”

Sasaram (Rohtas)

Overview

Historical Background