Kurkihar, near Gaya Ji, Bihar, is an archaeological site dating back to the 9th–12th centuries CE, once a major Buddhist pilgrimage center. It is located 27 km east of Gaya Ji.

Excavations revealed Buddhist images, stupas, and votive chaityas, described by Cunningham in the 19th century as stretching for hundreds of feet. In 1930, a hoard of 226 bronzes was discovered, now displayed in Patna Museum.

Inscriptions mention Pala kings like Devapala, Rajyapala, and Mahipala, and refer to Apanaka Monastery, popular among South Indian pilgrims. Among the 87 recovered images, 81 were Buddhist and 6 Hindu, found buried 25 feet underground.

At a Glance

An important archaeological site near Gaya Ji, Kurkihar is famous for its Buddhist relics dating back to the Pala dynasty (8th–12th century). The site has yielded a vast collection of bronze and stone sculptures of Lord Buddha and Bodhisattvas, highlighting the deep Buddhist heritage of Bihar. Many of these relics are now preserved in museums, while the site remains a place of interest for history enthusiasts and researchers.

Best Time to Visit : September to April.

Electronic Gadgets : Mobile, Camera,  Electronic Gadgets Allowed.