Things To Do
in Ekma

Ekma is a small town in Bihar, India, set amid wide agricultural fields and rural scenery. It functions as a local market hub for nearby villages and offers a glimpse into everyday life on traditional roads. Visitors can explore the town's markets, temples, and riverbank spots to experience authentic small-town India.

Surrounded by farmed land and oases of community life, Ekma serves as a gateway to the nearby countryside and village culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Ekma
morning
:

Arrive at Ekma and check into your accommodation. Spend some time to freshen up and enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery. Take a stroll around your vicinity to soak in the local culture and ambiance.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Sonepur Fair, one of the largest cattle fairs in Asia, if it coincides with your visit. Engage with the local vendors and artisans showcasing their crafts. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local dhaba for an authentic culinary experience.

evening
:

Head to the banks of the Ganges for a beautiful sunset view. Participate in the evening aarti, a spiritual ritual of worship, which is both mesmerizing and rejuvenating. Conclude your day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant, pleasantly enjoying the night air.

day 2
Exploring Local Temples
morning
:

Start your day early with a visit to the historic Shree Bihari Ji Temple. The morning pooja ceremony offers a serene environment perfect for reflection and peace. Sample some local sweets, a must-try, from vendors around the temple.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Durga Mata Mandir, set amidst lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. Take your time exploring the temple's architecture and the tranquil surroundings. Capture some photographs to cherish these beautiful moments.

evening
:

Spend your evening at the local market, shopping for handicrafts and local textiles. Engage in conversations with the friendly locals who can share stories about their craftsmanship. Enjoy a peaceful dinner at a nearby café, reflecting on your day’s adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
🥪Lunch for two at a casual restaurant$6-12
🛏️Budget hotel room per night$15-40
🚲Local transport (auto-rickshaw short ride)$1-3
🛒Groceries and daily essentials (per day)$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic rural Bihar experience with friendly people
  • Affordable prices and simple, tasty local cuisine
  • Close-knit markets and cultural experiences
  • Limited nightlife and modern amenities
  • Connectivity and transport can be slower than big cities
  • Medical facilities are basic in town; may require travel for specialized care
  • "Namaste" - Hello
  • "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
  • "Kripya" - Please
  • "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
  • "Yeh kitna hai?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Ekma

Visit one of these nice places.

Ghaghara Riverbank at Dawn

A calm sunrise shoot along the river with silhouettes of boats and farmers at work.

Old Temple Brickwork

Ancient brick temple façade offering textures and portrait opportunities.

Market Lanes at Golden Hour

Colorful stalls and busy lanes bathed in warm light; great for candid street photography.

Rural Farmland Vistas

Expansive fields with irrigation channels and distant village life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ekma

Ekma's cuisine is rustic and hearty, centered on staples like rice, dal, vegetables, and breads, with iconic Bihar dishes such as litti chokha and sattu-based foods.

Ekma Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Litti Chokha

Clay-roasted dough balls stuffed with sattu, served with mashed roasted vegetables. Common at local dhabas and street stalls.

Must-Try!

Sattu Paratha

Parathas stuffed with roasted gram flour, often served with chutney and pickles.

Dal Chawal

Simple yet comforting lentil curry served with steamed rice and ghee.

Chai with Pakode

Strong tea served with fried snacks, a popular roadside comfort.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ekma Bazaar

Main market near the bus stand with stalls offering fresh snacks like samosas, jalebi, litti chokha, and seasonal fruit.

Riverbank Street Stalls

Evening stalls along the riverfront serving quick bites and hot tea.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is subtropical with hot summers, a rainy monsoon season, and mild to cool winters. Winters (Oct-Feb) are comfortable, springs are warm, and summers can be extremely hot; monsoon rains (Jun-Sep) bring humidity and occasional flooding in low-lying areas.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Namaste and greetings

Greet with a smile and a slight bow of the head; use 'Namaste' or 'Namaskar'.

Respect sacred spaces

Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering homes or temples when asked, and avoid touching religious objects.

Photography etiquette

Ask for permission before photographing people, especially children, and avoid intrusive portraits.

Foot etiquette

Avoid pointing feet at people or sacred items; use the right hand for exchanges.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is typical of rural Bihar: stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets, avoid traveling alone at night on poorly lit roads, and ensure drinking water is clean. Use licensed taxis, watch your belongings in markets, and keep emergency contacts handy. Health facilities are basic in Ekma; identify the nearest hospital in advance for emergencies.

Tipping in Ekma

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated for good service, typically 5-10% in restaurants and for higher-end services; rounding up is common in casual settings.

Payment Methods

Cash remains the dominant payment method in Ekma; many places may accept mobile payments (UPI) or cards in larger shops, but carrying cash is wise.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

April to June brings hot weather with temperatures often above 40°C; stay hydrated, wear light cotton clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Monsoon

July to September brings high humidity and heavy rainfall; some roads may be waterlogged; carry rain gear and watch for temporary floods.

Winter

October to March brings cooler to mild temperatures; nights can be cool; layer clothing and enjoy comfortable outdoor walks.

Nightlife Guide

Ekma at Night

Ekma has a modest nightlife primarily centered around evenings in the town market, tea stalls, and social gatherings. There are no large clubs or pubs; instead, evenings may feature family gatherings, temple events, and seasonal fairs that draw locals and visitors alike.

Hiking in Ekma

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ghaghara Riverbank Trail

Gentle riverside path suitable for a half-day hike and sunset views.

Village Countryside Loop

Short hike through agricultural fields and village lanes offering rural landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Ekma by plane.

Patna Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (PAT)

Major airport serving Patna and the region; connects to major Indian cities and some international destinations.

Gaya Airport (GAY)

Secondary regional airport near Bodh Gaya offering domestic flights and basic facilities.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center and markets are walkable on most days, with pleasant sidewalks and compact streets. Rural roads outside the center can be dusty or muddy during the monsoon, so be prepared for uneven surfaces and occasional traffic. For longer trips, autos and shared transport are common and affordable.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hindus

Largest religious group in the area, with temples and related cultural practices.

Muslims

A significant minority with mosques and community events.

Other communities

Small numbers of other faiths and communities contributing to local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

The most popular sport across the region, played in schools and local grounds.

Football (Soccer)

Widely played in villages and local clubs, especially among youths.

Kabaddi

Traditional contact sport seen at school events and local competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate in the town, with auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws common modes of transport. Roads can become congested during market hours or festival times. Long-distance travel is usually by bus or train from nearby towns, with taxis as needed.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ekma.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most meals in Ekma are vegetarian-friendly. Ask for dal, vegetables, rice, and bread; we recommend avoiding ghee if you’re dairy sensitive.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare options in Ekma include local primary health centers and clinics. For more comprehensive care, residents typically travel to district towns with larger hospitals. Carry essential medicines, and ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical needs.

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