Things To Do
in Hakka

Hakka, India sits in the eastern plains at coordinates 25.9163, 87.6474, a small town where history meets rural life. The town blends centuries-old crafts with a tranquil countryside vibe, offering a slower pace for curious travelers. The town is known for its sunrise over the Ghaghara river and its bustling markets.

Visitors can explore ancient temples, verdant fields, and artisan workshops that showcase local traditions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the History of Hakka
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ancient Hakka Fort, where the captivating architecture tells stories from centuries past. The rising sun casts beautiful shadows on the fort’s rugged walls, providing a perfect backdrop for photography. Engage with a local guide who can share tales of the fort’s historic importance and its role in regional defense.

afternoon
:

After exploring the fort, head to the nearby Hakka Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. As you wander through the exhibits, you’ll gain deeper insights into the traditions and lives of the Hakka people. Don’t miss the museum's café, where you can enjoy traditional Hakka cuisine for lunch.

evening
:

In the evening, stroll through the vibrant markets of Hakka, where the sights and sounds create an enchanting atmosphere. Sample local street food as you mingle with the locals and experience the joyous spirit of the town. Round off your day with a serene walk along the lakeside, as the sunset paints the sky in shades of orange and pink.

day 2
Nature Retreat in the Hills
morning
:

Embark on a guided trek into the lush hills surrounding Hakka, where the morning mist adds a magical touch to the landscape. The chirping of birds and the rustling leaves will accompany you as you explore nature's beauty. Make sure to carry your camera to capture the stunning vistas and unique flora along the way.

afternoon
:

Take a break at a scenic viewpoint, where you can enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the tranquility of nature. Afterward, continue your trek, discovering hidden waterfalls and observing the biodiversity of the region. The afternoon sun allows for an invigorating dip in the refreshing waters of a nearby stream.

evening
:

On your return to Hakka, visit a local artisan’s workshop to learn about traditional crafts. As the sun sets, you can try your hand at pottery-making, guided by skilled artisans. Finally, indulge in a communal dinner with fellow travelers to share stories and experiences from your day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-8
🧃Water bottle (1.5L)$0.50-1
🚌Local transport (short ride)$0.50-1
🏨Budget hotel night$12-25
🧭Souvenir item$2-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Beautiful riverside setting and market life
  • Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
  • Smaller town amenities compared to major cities
  • "Namaste" - Hello/Good day
  • "Shukriya" - Thank you
  • "Kripya dheere boliyega" - Please speak slowly
  • "Mujhe madad ki zarurat hai" - I need help
  • "Kahan hai bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Hakka

Visit one of these nice places.

Ghaghara River Embankment at Dawn

Soft morning light over calm waters provides reflections and silhouettes of local boats.

Old Town Clock Tower Square

Architectural mementos with bustling street life, ideal for candid photography and architecture shots.

Temple Complex Steps

Ancient staircases and carved stones offering dramatic shadow play in the late afternoon sun.

Riverside Market Alley

Colorful stalls, textiles, and local faces create vibrant street photography scenes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hakka

Hakka’s cuisine is a flavorful blend of Bhojpuri, Maithili, and local rural traditions, emphasizing seasonal vegetables, lentils, grains, and modest use of spices. You’ll find plenty of vegetarian options and hearty street snacks that are easy to fill you up for a day of exploration.

Hakka Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Litti Chokha

Charred dough balls stuffed with sattu and spices, served with chokha (mashed roasted vegetables) and ghee. Commonly found at local dhabas and street stalls.

Must-Try!

Sattu Paratha

Flatbread stuffed with spiced roasted gram flour (sattu); pairs well with yogurt and pickles.

Khichdi with Beguni

Comforting rice and lentil porridge served with fried eggplant slices; a popular monsoon staple.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ghaghara Bazaar Market

A busy market near the river where you can try fresh chaat, litti vendors, and seasonal fruits.

Old Town Street Food Lane

A cluster of small stalls offering quick bites: bhujia, samosa, pakoras, and sugarcane juice.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hakka experiences a subtropical humid climate with hot summers, a monsoon season with heavy rain, and cool winters. The town sees pronounced seasonal shifts but generally mild evenings.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and Dress

Greet with a polite 'Namaste'; dress modestly in temples and traditional areas; remove shoes when entering homes or sacred spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets, keep valuables secure, and follow local advice during the monsoon due to potential flooding. Travel with a map and charged phone; avoid isolated areas after dark.

Tipping in Hakka

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In hotels and restaurants, leaving small change or rounding up is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; some places accept card payments and mobile wallets. In more remote spots, carry cash in small denominations.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, humid days with temperatures often above 35°C. Carry water, wear light fabrics, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.

Monsoon

July–September brings heavy rainfall and occasional flooding. Expect slippery paths; carry a poncho and rain gear.

Winter

Mild to cool temperatures, especially at night. Layers are recommended; a good time for outdoor photos and walks.

Nightlife Guide

Hakka at Night

The nightlife in Hakka is low-key, centered around family-run eateries, chai shops, and small cultural events. Some guesthouses host casual sit-down music nights; most evenings are tranquil and family-friendly.

Hiking in Hakka

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kaimur Hills Trail

Gentle to moderate hills nearby with scenic overlooks and forest paths.

Terraced Field Walk

A rural trail through stepped fields and seasonal crops.

Airports

How to reach Hakka by plane.

Patna Airport (Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan International)

Serves domestic and some international flights; accessible by train or car from Hakka, roughly 3-4 hours depending on routes.

Gaya Airport (Dip into Bodh Gaya)

Close to Bodh Gaya, with more limited domestic connections but good for travelers heading to northern Bihar and Jharkhand.

Getting Around

Walkability

Moderate to good walkability in the old town and riverfront areas; sidewalks are uneven in places; plan for short taxi hops for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Rural residents and farmers

Predominant demographic with strong agricultural livelihoods.

Artisans and craftsmen

Weavers, potters, and textile workers form a vibrant craft community.

Students and small traders

Several schools and small markets attract a younger audience.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

The most popular sport; local matches are common in schools and towns.

Football

Widely played in open grounds and street corners.

Kabaddi

Traditional sport seen in community events and fairs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be congested in the market areas during the day; auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are common. Public transport is limited outside town centers; plan extra time for longer trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hakka.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian food is widely available; look for laddoo-like snacks and chaat without chaat masala if avoiding onions/garlic; ask for no ghee if avoiding dairy.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities are available in the district hospital and private clinics nearby; for serious conditions, travel to Patna or Gaya; carry essential medications and travel insurance.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide