Things To Do
in Simaria
Simaria is a small town in Bihar, India, situated near the plain belt at coordinates 25.4221, 86.006. It blends agrarian life with a slow-paced market rhythm, offering a window into rural Bihar and its everyday routines. Visitors are drawn to its riverine scenery, local temples, and bustling markets that showcase regional crafts and flavors.
The town serves as a gateway to rural experiences and nearby natural and cultural sites, with easy access to larger urban centers in the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Ranchi airport and drive through rolling hills lined with palm trees to reach Simaria. Check into a heritage guesthouse nestled in a tranquil courtyard surrounded by jasmine vines. Unpack and breathe in the earthy scent of the monsoon air before heading out for a stroll.
Venture into the bustling local bazaar where vendors display vibrant textiles, fresh produce, and handcrafted trinkets. Sample street food specialties like litti chokha and spiced samosas as you navigate the colorful alleyways. Chat with friendly shopkeepers and pick up a handwoven scarf as your first memento.
Walk along the banks of the Subarnarekha River to witness a fiery sunset painting the sky in shades of amber and mauve. Enjoy a riverside dinner at a floating café serving traditional thalis accompanied by soft flute music. Let the gentle river breeze lull you into a peaceful evening before retiring under a sky full of stars.
Start your day with an early visit to the ancient Simaria Shiva Temple perched on a hillock overlooking the valley. Observe priests conducting the morning aarti while drums and bells echo through stone corridors. Marvel at intricate carvings that narrate tales of local deities and historic dynasties.
Wander to the nearby Sun Temple where golden sandstone walls glow under the midday sun. Join a small group of devotees for a traditional blessing with turmeric-infused water. Feel a surge of energy as you learn about temple rituals from a knowledgeable local guide.
Return to the historic quarter for dinner at a family-run eatery serving dal makhani and fragrant pilafs. Afterward, attend the evening aarti at the main shrine as diyas shimmer in the twilight. Let the devotional chants and swirling incense create a serene ambiance under a star-studded sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-6 |
| 🚲Local transportation (auto/rickshaw day pass) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-2 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs/handicrafts | $3-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable and authentic rural Bihar experience
- Warm hospitality and friendly locals
- Rich agricultural landscapes and river views
- Easy access to nearby cultural and natural sites
- Limited nightlife and city-style amenities
- Infrastructure can be basic in rural pockets
- Summer heat and monsoon travel can be challenging
- Public transport options may be less frequent than in bigger cities
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Ka haal baa?" - How are you?
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kripya madad kari" - Please help me
- "Mujhe khaana chahiye" - I would like to eat
- "Yahaan achha hai" - This is nice
- "Bhagwan ki kirpa" - God bless
- "Mujhe camera ki zaroorat hai" - I need a camera
- "Kaha mil sakta hai?" - Where can I find this?
- "Shanti se bat karen" - Please speak calmly
Places to Visit in Simaria
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views at golden hours with boats, fishermen, and reflective water—ideal for quiet, candid shots and landscapes.
Bustling lanes with colorful stalls, everyday portraits of locals, hands at work, and textures of textiles and pottery.
Cottage-style homes, brick and mud walls, and agricultural fields offering transitional light for portraits and documentary photos.
Food in Simaria
Simaria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Wheat flour balls stuffed with a spiced sattu filling, baked over coal and served with chokha made from roasted vegetables and spices.
Must-Try!
Parathas stuffed with roasted gram flour (sattu), often served with chutney or yogurt.
Simple, comforting lentil curries paired with fresh flatbread, a staple across town eateries.
A crisp, lightly sweet fried snack made with wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, common during festivals and markets.
Steamed or fried dumplings made from rice flour and stuffed lentil curry, a regional favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can sample fresh produce, spices, street snacks, and batik or handloom crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a respectful Namaste. Address elders with appropriate titles and use polite language in Hindi or Bhojpuri.
Dress modestly in public spaces and seek permission before photographing people, especially in homes or temples.
Remove shoes before entering homes or temples where required; avoid loud behavior near religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Simaria
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; typical ranges are 5-10% in restaurants and small services if you’re satisfied with service.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile wallets (Paytm, PhonePe, Bhim) and digital payments are increasingly common. Card acceptance is limited in smaller eateries; carry local currency for markets and stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with daytime temperatures often reaching high 30s°C (90s°F). Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shade. Monsoon season can bring occasional showers later in the season.
Lush green landscapes with frequent rain showers and high humidity. Roads may become slippery; carry rain gear and waterproof footwear. Snacking and street photography are vibrant in overcast light.
Cool to mild temperatures, with mornings and evenings cooler than daytime. Light jackets and layering are useful. This is a comfortable period for walking and exploring outdoor markets.
Simaria at Night
Hiking in Simaria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ancient hills and scenic rock formations near Jehanabad, offering short hikes and tranquil viewpoints.
Several gentle trails around the Rajgir area, suitable for a day hike from nearby towns with historical and spiritual sites.
Airports
How to reach Simaria by plane.
Major international and domestic gateway with connections to many Indian cities; typically the closest major airport for longer trips.
Regional airport serving Bodh Gaya and surrounding areas; convenient for spiritual and cultural itineraries in the region.
A larger city airport in Jharkhand; an option for further connections when Patna or Gaya are less convenient.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Bhojpuri- and Hindi-speaking residents with a strong Magahi cultural influence in the wider region.
Agrarian communities that contribute to the town’s daily life and markets.
A mix of Hindu and Muslim residents, with shared local traditions and festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport regionally, with games played informally in streets and organized matches in towns and schools.
A popular pastime in evenings and local grounds, especially among youth.
Traditional sport with local leagues and community play in rural areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Simaria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate as a vegetarian by asking for dal, sabzi (vegetables), roti, rice, and yogurt. Most eateries offer ample vegetarian options; confirm no ghee or butter if avoiding dairy.