Sonepur comes under the Saran district which is located in the northern part of Indian state Bihar. The Sonepur Mela is one of the popular fairs of Bihar. According to the Hindu calendar month, It is organized every year in the month of Kartik (October-November) by the govt. of Bihar.
The Sonepur Mela is held on the bank of River Ganga. This place is situated at a distance of approx. 25 km from the capital city Patna. This fair is also known as Harihar Kshetra Mela because it is celebrated in the remembrance of Baba Harihar Nath.
Major Attractions of Sonepur Mela
Harihar Temple
Harihar Nath Temple is located in Bihar. It is believed that this temple was built by Lord Rama while going for the Swayambar of Sita Mata (wife of Lord Rama). People perform puja in this temple before going to Sonepu fair and take a dip in the river which is the meeting place of holy rivers Ganga and Gandak.
Sonepur Cattle Fair
In ancient times, traders from as far as Central Asia used to come here for the trading of animals in the Sonepur Cattle Fair. Even today it is the biggest cattle fair of Asia and goes on from fifteen days to one month.
Haaazi Bazaar
Another key attraction of this fair is the sighting of numerous decorated elephants lined up for the purpose of sale in the place called Haazi Bazaar. A a large number of Indian breed horses are also traded here. Enjoy performances of artists in Folk shows, games and stunt of jugglers Other interesting things are goods like handicrafts, local garments, toys, weapons, utensils, and agricultural tools, and local Indian jewellery are available for sale through small stalls. Sonepur fair is an ideal choice for a traveller who wants to experience various aspects of rural India.
Accommodation and Facilities at Sonepur Mela
Fully furnished Swiss cottages in Sonepur fair along with western toilets are set up by Govt. of Bihar state tourism. Options of small hotels and lodges are also available in Sonepur.
How to reach Sonepur Mela?
Sonepur is easily accessible from Patna city which is around 25 km away. Prepaid taxis run from Patna to Sonepur.
Reach Sonepur by Air
Patna airport is 31 km far away from Sonepur. From the airport, you can take a prepaid taxi.
Reach Sonepur by Rail
Board a train to Patna or Hajipur station. After reaching there, you can take a bus/taxi/auto to reach Sonepur from Railway station.
Reach Sonepur by Road
Sonepur is well connected to major cities of India.