According to the 2011 Census of India, Bihar had a literacy rate of approximately 47%, which is among the lowest in India.

Bhagalpur is renowned for its Tassar silk production and is known as the 'Silk City of India'.

Bodh Gaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, is located in the Gaya district of Bihar. The Mahabodhi Temple here is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bihar was carved out as a separate state on March 26, 1956, following the States Reorganisation Act, 1956. Before this, it was part of the United Province (later UP) and then the Bihar and Orissa Province.

Pataliputra (modern-day Patna) was the capital of the Magadha kingdom and later became the capital of the Mauryan Empire. It was one of the largest and most magnificent cities of ancient India.

Mithila region is located in Northern Bihar, covering parts of Darbhanga, Madhubani, and Ranti districts. It is famous for Madhubani or Mithila paintings, a distinctive art form with UNESCO recognition.

Madhubani district in Northern Bihar is world-renowned for its traditional Madhubani paintings. These intricate paintings have been recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Bihar has 38 districts as per the latest administrative reorganization. This was increased from 36 after the creation of new districts in recent years.

The Ganga is the longest river flowing through Bihar with a length of approximately 420 km within the state.

Nalanda University was an ancient Buddhist university located in Nalanda district. It was one of the world's oldest universities.