Things To Do
in Arwal
Arwal is a quiet district in Bihar set among agricultural plains and rural villages. It serves as an offbeat stop for travelers exploring south-central Bihar, offering a slow pace and welcoming local communities. The town acts as a gateway to nearby natural and cultural sights, including hill ranges and historic temples.
Visitors should expect authentic rural experiences and a chance to observe everyday life away from busier tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Arwal and soak in the local atmosphere as you enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby dhaba. Visit the local market to get a glimpse of everyday life and shop for handmade crafts. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant streets and interacting with the friendly locals.
After lunch, head to the famous Jain Temple, known for its intricate architecture and serene environment. Take your time walking around the temple grounds, capturing stunning photos, and reflecting in its peaceful surroundings. Consider participating in a short meditation session to connect with the spiritual essence of the place.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, sampling authentic Bihari cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through one of Arwal's parks, where you can watch families and children enjoying their evening activities. End the night with a visit to a local tea stall where you can sip on masala chai and listen to stories from the residents.
Start your day with a visit to a nearby village to experience the local culture firsthand. Participate in traditional crafts or agricultural activities that showcase the region's rich heritage. Return to Arwal for a refreshing lunch filled with local flavors.
Explore the historical sites around Arwal, including any monuments or forts that tell the story of the region's past. Engage with local historians or guides to learn about the significance of these landmarks. Spend some time in a nearby art gallery that showcases the works of local artists.
Join a cultural evening event if available, featuring local music and dance performances. This is another opportunity to mingle with residents and other travelers. Wind down your day sipping herbal tea and discussing your experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| 🧃Water bottle (1 liter) | $0.20-0.50 |
| 🚗Taxi or auto within town | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (1 night) | $15-30 |
| ☕Tea or coffee at cafe | $0.50-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Offbeat destination with authentic rural Bihar culture
- Affordable living costs and easy, slow-paced travel
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Roads and transport options can be variable in quality
- "Namaste" - Hello / Good day
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Aapka naam kya hai?" - What is your name?
- "Mujhe guṇḍā ki jagah ki jarurat hai" - I need directions
- "Aap kaha hain?" - Where are you?
- "Bhaisaab / Bahin" - Sir / Madam (respectful address)
- "Main vegetarian hoon" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Arwal
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm, atmospheric temple precincts with morning light and local worshippers; good for portraiture and architectural detail.
Expansive fields, irrigation channels, and silhouettes of villagers at golden hour—ideal for landscapes and documentary photography.
Granite hills offering rolling profiles and distant horizons; a classic spot for wide-angle landscape shots.
Food in Arwal
Arwal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted dough balls stuffed with sattu, served with chokha (mashed roasted vegetables) and ghee. Commonly found at roadside stalls and local eateries.
Must-Try!
Parathas stuffed with ground roasted gram (sattu) and spices, usually enjoyed with chutney or pickles in casual dining spots.
Steamed rice flour dumplings stuffed with spiced lentil dal, a comfort food often prepared in Bihar and available at home-style joints.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main town market where you can try litti chokha, chaat, and regional snacks from morning to evening.
Cluster of informal stalls offering quick bites, tea, and sweets favored by locals after work.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say Namaste with a slight bow or hands pressed together; address elders with respect and use polite language.
Cover shoulders and knees in temples and villages; remove shoes where required and ask before photographing people.
Show patience in queues, avoid loud disruptions, and respect local customs and religious practices.
Safety
Tipping in Arwal
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary and commonly expected in hotels, guided services, and higher-end eateries (5-10%).
Cash is widely used in markets and small eateries; cards and digital wallets are becoming more common in larger shops and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with temperatures often above 35°C (95°F). Carry water, wear a hat, and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
July to September brings heavy rainfall and lush landscapes; some rural roads can be slippery or muddy; pack a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Cool-to-mild days with pleasant mornings and cool evenings. This is a comfortable season for exploring outdoor spots and markets.
Arwal at Night
Hiking in Arwal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Granite hills offering scenic treks and panoramic views, a short trip from Arwal and an excellent day hike.
Rugged hills offering longer hikes, viewpoints, and opportunities to explore rural biodiversity and forested landscapes.
Easy riverside walks and nature breaks with seasonal birds and calm scenery.
Airports
How to reach Arwal by plane.
Major gateway for international and domestic flights; typically the easiest air access for travelers heading to Arwal via road or rail.
Regional hub serving eastern Bihar and nearby Buddhist pilgrimage sites; another practical option for reaching Arwal by road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Hindu majority with a Muslim minority; diverse rituals and festival practices influence daily life.
Predominantly agrarian communities with family-run businesses and local craft traditions.
Hindi is widely spoken; Bhojpuri is common in daily conversation, with local dialects shaping cultural expression.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Bihar and a common activity in towns and villages.
Widely played in schools and open grounds in the region.
Traditional rural sport seen in village gatherings and local events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arwal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widespread; inform cooks about spice levels and preference for ghee-free or oil-based dishes if needed.