Things To Do
in Mau
Mau is a historic town in eastern Uttar Pradesh, positioned on the fertile plains of the Ganges region. It features a lively market culture, with colorful shops, temples, and a strong sense of Purvanchal heritage. The city serves as a gateway to nearby villages where traditional crafts and agricultural life are still visible.
Visitors can expect a friendly, affordable, and unhurried feel with plenty of local flavors to explore.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like poha and jalebi. After breakfast, embark on a guided walking tour through the historic center of Mau, where you can admire the intricate architecture of ancient temples and havelis. This immersive experience will allow you to appreciate the rich history and culture of the region as your guide shares fascinating stories of the past.
Post-lunch, visit the Mau Museum to delve deeper into the local heritage and view artifacts that narrate the story of the region. Spend your afternoon strolling through the bustling markets, where you can shop for handicrafts, textiles, and local spices. Make sure to take breaks at quaint tea stalls to enjoy a refreshing cup of masala chai while people-watching.
As the sun sets, head to a popular local restaurant for a dinner featuring authentic Awadhi cuisine. Enjoy dishes such as kebabs and biryanis, prepared with age-old recipes passed down through generations. Conclude your evening by taking a leisurely walk along the riverbank, soaking in the serene ambiance and the sounds of the city winding down.
Begin your day with a visit to the vibrant morning market in Mau, where the air is filled with the aroma of fresh produce and spices. Interact with local vendors and experience the hustle and bustle as you explore stalls filled with fruits, vegetables, and handmade goods. Don’t forget to sample some street food for breakfast, such as chaat and samosas.
After lunch at a nearby eatery, spend your afternoon exploring the textile market, renowned for its exquisite handloom fabrics and traditional garments. Engage with artisans who are more than happy to share their craft and techniques with you. This is a perfect opportunity to pick up unique souvenirs that reflect the local craftsmanship.
As dusk approaches, head to a local café for some refreshing drinks and light snacks. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you relax and watch the city transition from day to night. Later, find a spot to witness the spectacular sunset, providing a beautiful backdrop to your memorable day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🚲Bicycle rental (one day) | $3-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $10-25 |
| 🛍️Local handicraft or market purchase | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Purvanchal culture and cuisine
- Very affordable and slow-paced travel experience
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Fewer mainstream tourist facilities and English-speaking staff in some places
- "Namaste" - Hello / Greetings
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Aap kaise ho?" - How are you?
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Yahan kaise jaaun?" - How do I get there?
- "Bhaiya / Saheb" - Sir / Brother (polite address)
- "Mujhe menu dikhayein" - Please show me the menu
- "Kitna hai?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Mau
Visit one of these nice places.
An active hub with classic arches and the everyday bustle of travelers; great for candid street and architecture shots.
Narrow lanes lined with traditional storefronts, textiles, and daily life that make for colorful, documentary photography.
Farmland and village scenes at dawn or dusk offer soft light and portraits of rural life.
Vibrant market activity, produce stacks, and festive decorations provide lively color and texture.
Food in Mau
Mau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Charred wheat flour balls filled with sattu, served with chokha made from roasted vegetables. Widely enjoyed in Purvanchal and easy to find in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Parathas stuffed with sattu, often enjoyed with yogurt or pickle and a dollop of ghee.
Chaat plates, samosas, aloo tikki, and other quick bites found at market stalls and street corners.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market zones where you can sample litti chokha, chaats, and regional snacks from street vendors.
Lively spots to observe daily commerce, with numerous stalls offering fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes where required and ask before entering or touching sacred areas.
Ask for permission before photographing people or private spaces; respect local customs and private property.
A warm Namaste is preferred; use the right hand for giving or receiving and maintain polite, calm conversations in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Mau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but modest in most small eateries and markets. 5–10% at restaurants and small tips for guides or drivers are common.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small shops. Card payments and digital wallets are becoming more common in larger establishments and hotels; UPI is popular for quick transfers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry conditions with temperatures often above 35°C (95°F). Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activity for early mornings or late afternoons.
Moderate to heavy rains can occur from July to September. Roads can be slippery; carry a compact umbrella and waterproof footwear.
Cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10–20°C (50–68°F). Great for walking tours, market photography, and outdoor meals.
Mau at Night
Hiking in Mau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle circular route through agricultural fields and rural hamlets, ideal for sunset photography and observing village life.
Easy trails along riverbanks near the town of Rasra, offering calm scenery and opportunities to spot birds.
Short rural trails through nearby villages with insights into farming practices and local flora.
Airports
How to reach Mau by plane.
Varanasi airport (VNS) is the major nearby international gateway, typically about 180–230 km away by road depending on route and traffic.
Gorakhpur Airport (GOP) is another option, located roughly 180–230 km away by road and rail connections.
Patna Airport (PAT) can serve as an alternative, typically farther but accessible for longer trips when combining with other destinations in Bihar.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major demographic group with deep-rooted cultural and religious practices in daily life.
A significant minority with unique cultural contributions and religious sites.
Agricultural livelihoods form a large portion of the local economy and social fabric.
Traditional crafts and textiles are part of the district’s heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport across the region and is commonly played in schools, parks, and local grounds.
Traditional kabaddi and local leagues are common in villages and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian dining is common; look for dal, sabzi, roti, and chaat options. Clearly ask for ghee vs oil if needed and request separate utensils if avoiding dairy.