Things To Do
in Mathila

Mathila, India, is a vibrant town located in the northeastern part of the country, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is widely recognized as a pilgrimage destination, particularly for followers of Hinduism, due to its association with the epic Ramayana. The town is characterized by its beautiful temples, bustling markets, and a blend of traditional and modern lifestyles.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, explore its ancient sites, and enjoy the warmth of its community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Janaki Mandir, an iconic temple dedicated to Goddess Sita, located in the heart of Mathila.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, particularly the Vishwamitra Market, where you can shop for handicrafts, textiles, and local souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant and take a stroll along the banks of the river to experience the serene evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the nearby gardens, such as the Ram Bagh, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning walk surrounded by nature.

afternoon
:

Head to the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Mathila, including its artistic heritage.

evening
:

Relax at a café with local delicacies and enjoy the local music performances often held at the open-air spaces.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$2-5
🚕Taxi Ride within the City$1-3
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$5-20
Coffee at a Café$1-2
🏨Budget Hotel Night$10-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
  • Delicious local cuisine with a variety of vegetarian options.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Public infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger cities.
  • Monsoon season can disrupt travel plans.
  • "नमस्ते" - Hello
  • "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
  • "कृपया" - Please
  • "बिल कितना है?" - How much is the bill?
  • "मुझे मदद चाहिए" - I need help

Places to Visit in Mathila

Visit one of these nice places.

Janaki Mandir

The stunning architecture and vibrant surroundings make this temple an ideal spot for photography.

Ram Bagh

A beautiful garden with lush greenery and fountains, perfect for capturing serene nature shots.

Ganga Sagar

The confluence of the rivers here offers picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mathila

Mathila offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage. From savory snacks to sweet delicacies, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Mathila Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Litti Chokha

A traditional dish made of baked wheat balls served with mashed spiced eggplant and tomato.

Must-Try!

Samosa

Fried or baked pastry filled with a spicy mix of mashed potatoes, peas, and spices.

Kheer

A sweet rice pudding made with milk, sugar, and flavored with cardamom and nuts.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Vishwamitra Market

A bustling market where vendors sell a variety of street food, including chaats, sweets, and snacks.

Chowk Bazaar

A famous street food hub known for its variety of local delicacies and snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mathila experiences a tropical climate with four distinct seasons: mild winters from December to February, hot summers from March to June, a monsoon season from June to September, and a pleasant autumn from October to November. Winter temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F), while summer can soar up to 40°C (104°F). The monsoon brings heavy rainfall, making it humid and lush.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Religious Sites

Visitors should dress modestly and remove shoes before entering temples.

Greetings

A traditional 'Namaste' gesture with folded hands is a common way to greet others.

Dining Etiquette

It is polite to wait for the host to start the meal before eating.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mathila is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to remain alert in crowded areas and secure your belongings. It’s recommended to avoid isolated areas at night and to be cautious when using ATMs.

Tipping in Mathila

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% at restaurants and for guides.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, digital payments through apps like Paytm are becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December to February)

Temperatures are mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing.

Spring (March to May)

The weather starts to warm up, but it’s still manageable for outdoor activities.

Monsoon (June to September)

Heavy rains are expected; travel may be affected, but the landscape becomes lush and green.

Summer (October to November)

Temperatures can be high; early mornings or evenings are best for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Mathila at Night

Mathila has a laid-back nightlife scene primarily centered around local eateries and cultural performances. While there aren’t clubs or bars in the traditional sense, one can enjoy live music at local cafes and street performances. The atmosphere is generally safe and welcoming, allowing visitors to enjoy evenings at leisure.

Hiking in Mathila

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kakolat Hills

Located about 40 km from Mathila, these hills offer scenic views and hiking opportunities.

Sikandarpur Hill

A popular hiking destination known for its lush greenery and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Mathila by plane.

Jay Prakash Narayan Airport

Located approximately 135 km from Mathila, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mathila is relatively walkable, especially in the central areas where many attractions are located close together. Sidewalks are available, but some streets can be narrow and crowded. Walking is a pleasant way to experience the local culture and architecture.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hindus

The majority of the population in Mathila identifies as Hindu, making up a significant part of the town's culture and traditions.

Bihari Migrants

Many people from other parts of Bihar have moved to Mathila for work, contributing to the local economy and cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is immensely popular in Mathila, with many locals playing in parks and streets.

Kabaddi

A traditional Indian sport, kabaddi is played in local tournaments and is a significant part of the local culture.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mathila is generally manageable, with most roads being congested during peak hours. Public transportation options include auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws, which are affordable and convenient for short distances. However, be prepared for some delays and crowded conditions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mathila.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Mathila has a strong vegetarian culture, making it easy to find vegetarian-friendly meals.

Gluten-Free

While many dishes contain wheat, you can find various rice-based dishes suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Mathila include local clinics and hospitals, though they may not be as advanced as in urban centers. It’s advisable for travelers to carry basic medications and have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. In case of serious health issues, patients may need to travel to larger cities for specialized care.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide