Photo: Mausam Nandan / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
📍 Begusarai, North Bihar, Bihar
Asia's largest freshwater oxbow lake and Bihar's first Ramsar site, a shimmering wetland near Manjhaul in Begusarai. In winter it hosts tens of thousands of migratory waterbirds along the Central Asian Flyway, with over 200 bird species recorded. A paradise for birdwatchers and photographers, best explored by boat at dawn.
Kanwar Taal, also known as Kabartal Wetland, is a vast oxbow lake formed by the shifting course of the Gandak river, lying about 22 km north-west of Begusarai town near Manjhaul. Reputed to be Asia's largest freshwater oxbow lake, it was designated Bihar's first Ramsar site (Wetland of International Importance) in 2020.
The wetland is an important stopover on the Central Asian Flyway. In the winter months it supports large flocks of migratory ducks, geese, waders and other waterbirds, with more than 200 bird species recorded here along with rich aquatic plant and fish life. Local fishing communities and farmland surround the lake, making it a living cultural landscape as much as a wildlife haven.
November to February, when migratory birds arrive in large numbers. Early morning offers the best sightings and light.
Rivers & Ghats A revered Ganga pilgrimage ghat near Barauni in Begusarai, believed to be the tapobhumi of King Janaka of Mithila. Every year it hosts a monthlong Kalpvas Mela on the riverbank, drawing thousands of devotees for ritual bathing and austerity. It is also the birthplace of the great Hindi poet Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar', adding literary pride to its spiritual fame.
A large wildlife sanctuary in the hills of southern Munger district, famous for its cluster of natural hot springs — among the hottest in Bihar at 52–65 °C. Dense forest shelters leopards, deer, wild boar and rich birdlife. The remote, unspoilt setting makes it a rewarding destination for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.
Forts & Palaces A historic riverside fort on the south bank of the Ganga, built across a rocky projection and once a stronghold of medieval rulers. It served as a base for Mir Qasim, the Nawab of Bengal, in the 18th century. Within its walls lie old gateways, palaces, tombs and colonialera buildings alongside fine views of the river.
A revered natural hot spring near Munger, linked in legend to Sita's fire ordeal (agni pariksha) from the Ramayana. The main warm spring is surrounded by cooler pools named Ram, Lakshman, Bharat and Shatrughna Kund. Its geothermal waters are believed to have healing properties, drawing pilgrims and visitors alike.
