Things To Do
in Sonpur
Sonpur is a town in the Saran district of Bihar, India. It is known for its historic Sonpur Mela, a large cattle fair held annually that attracts traders and visitors from across the country. The town is situated on the banks of the River Gandak and is an important transportation hub with a railway station and bus connectivity.
Sonpur also has religious significance with the presence of various temples and shrines attracting pilgrims throughout the year.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $0.50 - $2
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day visiting the historic Sonpur Mela ground, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the ancient temples that showcase unique architecture.
After lunch, head to the Ganges River to enjoy a boat ride while admiring the picturesque views. Observe the local fishing techniques that have been used for centuries.
In the evening, stroll through the local markets and indulge in some street food delicacies. Explore traditional handicrafts and take home a memorable souvenir.
Visit local studios and meet artists who create traditional paintings and crafts. Participate in a workshop to try your hand at traditional art forms.
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, savoring local cuisine. Afterward, explore a cultural center to learn about the history of art in Sonpur.
In the evening, attend an art exhibition or cultural performance. This is a great opportunity to connect with the local artistic community.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Sonpur is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
- The annual Sonpur Mela is one of the largest cattle fairs in Asia, attracting tourists and traders.
- Sonpur is strategically located near the confluence of the Ganges and Gandak rivers, offering scenic views and opportunities for river tourism.
- The region has a variety of local cuisines that reflect the diverse culture of Bihar.
- Sonpur has a relatively low cost of living compared to major urban centers.
- Infrastructure development in Sonpur is still lagging behind compared to other regions.
- Public transportation options may be limited, making it difficult to navigate without a personal vehicle.
- The area can experience extreme weather conditions, such as heat in the summer and flooding during the monsoon season.
- Job opportunities may be limited, leading to migration of the youth to larger cities for better prospects.
- Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced or accessible as in metropolitan areas.
Best Activities in Sonpur
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the scenic Gandak River, surrounded by lush greenery and local wildlife.
Experience the vibrant Sonpur Mela, a large cattle fair held annually, featuring various activities, cultural performances, and traditional food stalls.
Explore the ancient Vaishali Stupa and its surroundings, which offer excellent opportunities for bird watching and serene natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sonpur with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sonpur
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape perfect for photography.
Provides picturesque scenes during the annual cattle fair and a variety of cultural events.
Beautiful temple with scenic surroundings ideal for capturing traditional architecture and religious rituals.
Food in Sonpur
Sonpur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Bihari dish, consisting of roasted wheat balls (litti) served with mashed vegetables (chokha) and tangy chutney. Best enjoyed at street stalls and local eateries like Litti Corner.
Must-Try!
A sweet snack made of wheat flour, jaggery, and grated coconut, often prepared during Chhath Puja. It can be found at various sweet shops and during festive occasions in Sonpur.
A flavorsome curry made with tender mutton pieces and aromatic spices, a popular non-vegetarian delicacy available at local dhabas (roadside eateries) and some restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sonpur better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
During the famous Sonpur Mela, the largest cattle fair in Asia, the streets come alive with a vibrant array of street food vendors offering local specialties like samosas, jalebis, and various chaat items.
A bustling market showcasing the region's culinary diversity. Here, one can savor regional sweets, snacks, and street food like litti chokha, thekua, and spicy chaat.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sonpur, it is important to greet people with a 'namaste' or 'namaskar' which is a common and respectful way of greeting others.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Sonpur. It is customary to touch the feet of elders as a sign of respect.
Understanding and respecting local customs and traditions, such as removing footwear when entering homes or places of worship, is important in Sonpur.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sonpur with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sonpur
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sonpur, India, tipping is not a common practice in most places. However, in upscale restaurants and hotels, a 10-15% tip may be appreciated if a service charge is not included in the bill.
In Sonpur, India, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, especially in smaller establishments. However, larger businesses and hotels may accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry enough cash when visiting Sonpur.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Sonpur is from March to June. Expect hot and dry weather with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 45°C.
July to September is the monsoon season in Sonpur, characterized by heavy rainfall and humid conditions.
The ideal time to visit Sonpur is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C.
Sonpur at Night
Hiking in Sonpur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near Bihar Sharif, this area offers scenic hiking trails with beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.
A short drive from Sonpur, Rajgir provides several trekking routes through lush greenery and historical sites.
While historically significant, the trails around Nalanda offer a chance to hike through ancient ruins and nature.
A bit further from Sonpur, this sanctuary has numerous hiking paths through wildlife-rich forests and hills.
An easily accessible area for hiking, featuring various trails ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Sonpur by plane.
Located in Guwahati, Assam, this airport serves as a major gateway to the northeastern states of India.
Also known as Jay Prakash Narayan Airport, it is the main airport serving the city of Patna, the capital of Bihar.
Located in Kolkata, West Bengal, this airport is one of the busiest in India and serves as a major international hub.
Serves the region of Siliguri in West Bengal, providing access to northern West Bengal and the foothills of the Himalayas.
Located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Sonpur, practicing Hinduism and following various traditions and festivals.
A significant minority group in Sonpur, practicing Islam and engaging in their cultural and religious practices.
A collection of groups historically marginalized, making up a notable portion of Sonpur's population.
Indigenous communities in Sonpur, with distinct cultures and traditions.
Includes various other religious and ethnic groups such as Christians, Jains, and others.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in India, often played on makeshift fields and widely followed throughout the country, including Sonpur.
A traditional Indian team sport known for its physical toughness and strategy, Kabaddi is commonly played in rural areas including Sonpur.
Football has a significant following in various parts of India, with local matches often being held in Sonpur and surrounding regions.
A widely played individual sport that is popular across all ages in Sonpur, often enjoyed both recreationally and competitively.
Field hockey has historical significance in India and continues to be played and followed, including in the Sonpur area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sonpur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries and restaurants in Sonpur offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as dal, sabzi, thekua, and various sweets, catering to those with plant-based dietary preferences.
While traditional Bihari cuisine heavily features wheat-based preparations, there are gluten-free alternatives available, including rice-based dishes, fresh fruits, and locally sourced vegetables.