Bhagalpur: Bhagalpur in Bihar is becoming a popular tourist destination, not just for its famous silk and Jardalu mangoes, but for a beautiful natural spot in Kahalgaon. Here, three small hills—Shanti Baba, Bengali Baba and Punjabi Baba—stand right in the middle of the Ganga river. Surrounded by water, these hills give the feel of a mini island, and tourists have started comparing it to Thailand. The peaceful and scenic beauty of the place is drawing visitors from all over.
The Bihar government has now decided to develop these hills as rock-cut temples under the Bihar Ancient Archaeological Relics and Art Treasures Act, 1976. This move is aimed at preserving the site’s natural and historical value and boosting tourism in the region. Officials believe that this area can become a major destination for religious, historical and eco-tourism in the future.
Located around 30 km from Bhagalpur, the hills can be reached by boat from Rajghat or Bateshwar Sthan Ghat. The boat ride itself is a special experience as it offers calm views of the river and often includes sightings of Gangetic dolphins. This area is part of the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, making it even more attractive for nature lovers.
The three hills also hold religious and historical importance. They are believed to have once been the location of Buddhist, Jain and Sikh ashrams. Ancient caves and small temples still exist on these hills, attracting devotees and those looking for peace. Bhagalpur is also connected to the myth of Samudra Manthan, as it is said that Mandar mountain, used in the churning of the ocean, is nearby. This makes the site even more special for visitors.
