Things To Do
in Matauna
Matauna is a quiet town in Bihar perched on the edge of flat plains and low hills. It blends rural charm with a handful of historic temples and a bustling market scene. The surrounding farmland and riverine landscapes offer easy day trips and sunset photography.
Visitors experience warm hospitality, slow-paced life, and flavors of Bhojpuri and Magahi culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient temples of Matauna, where the intricate carvings and vibrant colors will leave you in awe. After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, enjoy a breakfast of local delicacies like idli and sambar at a nearby eatery. Stroll through the narrow lanes, marveling at the colonial architecture that reflects the town's rich history.
In the afternoon, head to the Matauna Museum, where you'll discover artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region's past. Take a leisurely walk along the riverside, taking in the serene views and perhaps stopping for a traditional chai at a local tea stall. As the sun begins to set, enjoy some shopping at the local markets, where handmade crafts and textiles await.
As night falls, indulge in a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, savoring authentic regional dishes. Afterward, join a cultural performance showcasing traditional dance and music, immersing yourself in the local culture. Cap off your day with a peaceful walk along the riverbank, reflecting on the beauty of Matauna.
Begin the day with an early morning trek to the nearby hills, where you can enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including colorful birds and playful monkeys. Stop for a packed breakfast amidst nature, enjoying the sounds of the forest around you.
After your trek, visit the Matauna Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can explore diverse ecosystems and spot various species in their natural habitat. Join a guided tour to learn more about the conservation efforts in the area and the importance of preserving the local flora and fauna. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, listening to the calls of the wildlife.
As evening approaches, return to town and relax at a cozy café with a view of the sunset. Treat yourself to a refreshing drink or snack while watching the colors change in the sky. Later, attend an outdoor movie screening or live music event if available, enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🥗Local lunch for two | $6-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $1-5 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and handicrafts | $3-20 |
| ☕Tea or coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and authentic local culture
- Accessible day trips to rural landscapes
- Delicious, affordable Bhojpuri-Magahi cuisine
- Relatively low crowds compared to major cities
- Limited nightlife and modern amenities
- Smaller selection of international restaurants
- Roads can be rough in the monsoon
- Language barriers for non-Hindi speakers
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Kya yeh shakahari hai?" - Is this vegetarian?
- "Matauna kahan hai?" - Where is Matauna?
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Matauna
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light filtering through arches and colored fabrics makes rich textures for portraits and interiors.
Colorful storefronts, hanging lanterns, and daily life provide dynamic street photography opportunities.
Calm water, silhouettes of fishermen, and dramatic skies create serene landscape shots.
Expansive fields, distant hills, and farmers with oxen offer wide, cinematic compositions.
Food in Matauna
Matauna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional sattu-stuffed pastry served with mashed chokha (roasted vegetables) and a tangy chutney; widely found at local dhabas and street stalls.
Must-Try!
Parathas made with roasted gram flour served with pickles or chutney; a staple breakfast or lunch option in town.
Sweet fried wafers made with jaggery and whole wheat, a popular dessert especially during festive periods.
Simple, comforting lentil curry served over rice with a dollop of ghee; common temple and household staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls offering litti, chaat, roasted peanuts, fresh fruit, and hot tea; best explored in the morning.
Temporary markets near the riverfront where seasonal vegetables, milk products, and snacks appear during harvests.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove footwear, dress modestly, and ask permission before entering a private space inside temples.
Polite bargaining is common in markets; greet with ‘Namaste’ and a smile.
Address elders with courtesy titles and avoid raised voices in public.
Safety
Tipping in Matauna
Ensure a smooth experience
Smaller tips are appreciated for good service; in casual eateries, ₹20–₹100 (roughly $0.25–$1.25) depending on the bill.
Cash is common; many places accept mobile wallets (UPI, BHIM). Card acceptance is limited in smaller towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with temperatures often in the mid-30s°C; carry water, sun protection, and seek shade during peak heat.
Heavy rains and humidity; roads can become slippery and travel may require rain gear and flexible plans.
Milder days with cool to chilly mornings; a light jacket is useful, and mornings can be crisp.
Matauna at Night
Hiking in Matauna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hills and scenic viewpoints a short drive from Matauna; suitable for easy hikes.
Ridge trails in the Barabar region offering quiet nature walks near ancient caves.
Airports
How to reach Matauna by plane.
PAT, located about 100–150 km from Matauna, offers domestic and limited international connections; taxi or bus transfer is available to town.
GAY, located about 120–180 km away, serves domestic flights and is a common gateway for visitors to eastern Bihar; road or rail connections to Matauna exist.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant religious community; Bhojpuri and Magahi-speaking households.
Significant minority; shared cultural spaces, markets, and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The sport of choice in towns across India; informal games are common in parks and streets.
Traditional contact sport enjoyed in villages and local events.
Casual matches and neighborhood leagues are popular in schoolyards and open grounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Matauna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options abound; communicate ‘shakahari’ or simply say ‘vegetarian’ and look for sabzi, dal, roti, and chawal.