Ghora Katora, which means "Horse Bowl", is a natural lake near the city of Rajgir in the Indian state of Bihar. The shape of the lake resembles that of a horse and is surrounded by mountains on three of the sides. The lake attracts migratory birds from Siberia and central Asia during winter.
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Ghora Katora Lake is a hidden gem nestled in the scenic Rajgir hills of Bihar. This pristine, eco-friendly lake is an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking tranquility.
Location & Accessibility
Location: Near Rajgir, Nalanda district, Bihar
Distance from Rajgir: ~12 km
Nearest Railway Station: Rajgir Railway Station (~10 km)
Nearest Airport: Gaya Airport (~80 km)
Best Route: Rajgir โ Pandu Pokhar โ Ghora Katora Lake
Transport Options:
No direct motorable roads. Visitors must take e-rickshaws, cycles, or walk for about 2 km from the parking area.
Private vehicles are not allowed to preserve the eco-friendly zone.
History & Significance
The name "Ghora Katora" means "Horse Bowl," believed to be shaped like a horseโs drinking vessel.
It is linked to Lord Buddhaโs time and holds cultural significance in Buddhist and Jain history.
The lake is part of Rajgirโs eco-tourism initiative, promoting zero pollution and sustainable tourism.
Natural Beauty & Scenic Views
Surrounded by lush green hills and forests that provide breathtaking views.
The crystal-clear lake reflects the sky and hills, making it a paradise for photography.
Sunrise & sunset are particularly mesmerizing.
Activities to Enjoy
โ Boating: Paddle boats & rowboats available (โน50-โน100 per ride). โ Cycling: Rent bicycles to explore nearby scenic spots. โ Photography: Perfect for capturing stunning landscapes and wildlife. โ Trekking: Light trekking options around the hills. โ Picnic Spot: Ideal for families to relax and enjoy nature.
Major Attractions Nearby
Vishwa Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda) โ A serene Buddhist monument.
Griddhakuta Hill (Vultureโs Peak) โ Important Buddhist site.
Pandu Pokhar โ A nature park with adventure activities.
Rajgir Glass Bridge โ Adventure lovers can enjoy this unique attraction.
Nalanda University Ruins โ UNESCO World Heritage Site, about 20 km away.
Best Time to Visit
October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
Avoid summer (AprilโJune): Too hot and dry.
Monsoon (JulyโSeptember): Green landscapes but risk of slippery trails.
Food & Accommodation
Food: No food stalls at the lake, but Rajgir town has many local restaurants offering Bihari cuisine.
Accommodation: Stay options available in Rajgir, from budget lodges to luxury hotels.
Travel Tips
โ Carry drinking water & snacks as no shops are available near the lake. โ Wear comfortable shoes for walking & trekking. โ Follow eco-tourism guidelines (no littering, no plastic). โ Visit early morning for the best experience & fewer crowds. โ Combine with Rajgir sightseeing for a...
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Ghora Katora in Rajgir is a hidden paradise that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you're in Rajgir, this place is an absolute must-visit. The moment you arrive at Ghora Katora, you're greeted with breathtaking natural beauty. The lush greenery, the tranquil lake, and the surrounding hills create a picturesque setting that's perfect for nature enthusiasts and peace-seekers. The star attraction here is the lake itself. The crystal-clear waters reflect the sky and the hills, making it a photographer's dream. You can take a leisurely stroll around the lake, hire a paddleboat, or simply sit by the shore and soak in the tranquility. The best part? Ghora Katora is relatively less crowded compared to some of the other tourist spots in the area. It's a perfect place to unwind, meditate, or have a picnic with your loved ones. The local vendors selling snacks and beverages add to the charm of the place, and you can savor some delicious local snacks while enjoying the view. The only thing to keep in mind is the weather, as it can get quite hot during the summer months. So, it's advisable to visit early in the morning or later in the evening for a more pleasant experience. In conclusion, Ghora Katora in Rajgir is a true gem, offering a peaceful retreat in the lap of nature. Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this place won't disappoint....
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The place is beautiful, however it faces the heat of utter negligence by authorities.
Reaching there: You are not allowed to take own vehicles be it two wheeler or four wheelers. You will have to hop on E-rickshaws are there which charge 100 rupees per passenger for up - down journey. The journey is somewhere around 6 kms through forest.
After reaching: The lake is quite small, few ducks are there. Now, compared to number of visitors, the boats are very few and you will have to wait around 2 hours in normal scenarios to get a boat. The boating service has been outsourced and villager type quite ill mannered people take a hold of operations instead of a proper planned team.
The tourists throw plastics, wrappers, bottles in water which makes it quite distasteful, considering there aren't authorities present to enforce proper law.
Some snacks, water and other shops are there.
Overall, visiting it feels like "more...
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