Things To Do
in Parauli
Parauli is a small rural settlement in eastern Uttar Pradesh characterized by agricultural landscapes, seasonal mustard and paddy fields, and a close-knit village community. Daily life centers around farming rhythms, local markets (haats) and small temples that act as social hubs. Visitors will find simple infrastructure, warm hospitality from residents, and an authentic look at countryside culture away from major tourist routes.
The area is best visited by travelers seeking slow travel, photography of rural India, and local culinary experiences rather than luxury amenities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the ancient Mukteshwar Temple, where the intricate carvings and serene ambiance will take your breath away. As the sun rises, take part in the morning aarti, an uplifting experience that connects you with the local culture. Afterward, enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby eatery, savoring local delicacies like poha and jalebi.
In the afternoon, head to the Bhimtal Lake, where you can rent a boat and glide across the tranquil waters surrounded by lush hills. Spend some time enjoying a picnic by the lakeside, soaking in the beauty of nature while tasting local snacks. As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely stroll around the lake, capturing the stunning views.
In the evening, return to Parauli and explore the local markets, where vibrant stalls offer handmade crafts and regional specialties. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts, perhaps purchasing a unique souvenir to remember your time. Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, indulging in authentic North Indian cuisine.
Start your day with an invigorating nature walk in the nearby forest trails, where the morning sun filters through the trees creating a magical atmosphere. Listen to the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves as you immerse yourself in the sounds of nature. Keep your camera ready, as this area is rich in biodiversity, and you might spot some unique wildlife.
After your nature walk, visit the nearby wildlife sanctuary, where guided tours will educate you about the local fauna and flora. Spend some time at the observation points, where you can catch glimpses of deer and various bird species in their natural habitat. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the serene surroundings, taking the opportunity to reflect on your morning adventures.
As evening descends, participate in a guided night safari, where you can experience the forest in a whole new light. The thrill of spotting nocturnal animals and listening to their sounds adds a sense of adventure to your trip. After the safari, return to Parauli and unwind at your accommodation with a warm cup of chai.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| ☕Cup of chai | $0.10-0.50 |
| 🛵Short autorickshaw or shared transport ride | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Basic guesthouse / budget hotel (per night) | $10-30 |
| 📶SIM card/data (prepaid, per GB) | $0.50-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural experience and warm local hospitality
- Low-cost travel and affordable food and lodging
- Excellent opportunities for photography and slow travel
- Close contact with agricultural life and seasonal festivals
- Limited infrastructure, few modern amenities and minimal nightlife
- Language barrier if you don’t speak Hindi/Bhojpuri
- Healthcare and emergency services are basic locally — major care requires travel
- Public transport options are limited; private vehicle or hired transport often needed
- "Namaste" - Hello / respectful greeting
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kitna hua?" - How much is this?
- "Kahan hai...?" - Where is...?
- "Madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Shauchalay kahan hai?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Maaf kijiye" - Excuse me / sorry
Places to Visit in Parauli
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, colorful agricultural landscapes — especially photogenic at sunrise/sunset and during mustard bloom (bright yellow) or harvest.
Traditional temple architecture, ritual scenes and communal gatherings offer candid cultural photography opportunities.
Vibrant market scenes with vendors, produce, textiles and local crafts — great for street and portrait photography.
Calm water scenes, fishermen, and birds provide tranquil compositions, especially in early morning mist.
If your visit coincides with a festival or mela, you’ll find colorful costumes, processions and performances to photograph.
Food in Parauli
Parauli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted wheat balls (litti) served with mashed spiced vegetables (chokha). A regional favorite, available at village kitchens and roadside stalls.
Must-Try!
A plate with rice/roti, dal, seasonal sabzi, pickles and chutney — the best way to sample everyday local cuisine at a dhaba or small restaurant.
Crisp fried pastries stuffed with spiced potatoes or lentils; common breakfast or snack items sold by street vendors.
Simple milk- or flour-based sweets available at sweet shops in the nearest town or during festivals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market day where fresh produce, spices, snacks, and homemade pickles are sold — ideal for tasting seasonal fruits, roasted corn, chaats and local sweets.
Small eateries and chai stalls along main roads offering quick hearty meals (dal, roti, sabzi) and tea with samosas or biscuits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders first, use polite forms of address, and show deference in conversation and seating.
Both men and women should avoid revealing clothing; women may prefer a scarf (dupatta) to cover shoulders when visiting religious sites or conservative homes.
Remove shoes and hats before entering homes and temples; ask before photographing people or rituals.
Use the right hand for eating, giving and receiving items; the left hand is often considered unclean in social contexts.
Safety
Tipping in Parauli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest and discretionary: small amounts for porters, drivers (INR 50–200), and good service at restaurants (5–10%). In rural eateries and dhabas tipping is not expected but appreciated. Always tip in cash.
Cash (Indian rupees) is preferred in villages; small shops and dhabas may not accept cards. Mobile UPI and wallet payments (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm) are increasingly common in nearby towns but have limited use inside small villages. ATMs and banks are located in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
April to June brings hot, dry weather with daytime temperatures often high; plan outdoor activities early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated and use sun protection.
June to September sees the southwest monsoon with heavy, sometimes disruptive rains; rural roads can become muddy and some low-lying areas flood — carry waterproof gear and allow extra travel time.
October to November is pleasant with clearer skies after the rains, moderate temperatures, and harvest-time activity — good for photography and local events.
December to February are cooler and comfortable, with chilly mornings and nights (sometimes foggy); ideal for exploring on foot but bring warm layers for early mornings and evenings.
Parauli at Night
Hiking in Parauli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy, flat walks along nearby rivers or canals offering birdwatching, sunrise views and local fishing scenes; best at dawn or dusk.
Short looped walks through fields, ponds and hamlets that reveal rural architecture, irrigation systems and seasonal crops.
Out-and-back walks through orchards and groves (seasonal), pleasant under canopy shade and good for observing rural fruit cultivation.
Airports
How to reach Parauli by plane.
Regional airport serving eastern Uttar Pradesh with connections to major cities; typically a few hours' drive from rural areas depending on road routes.
Major airport with numerous domestic flights and some international connections; accessible by road from the surrounding region within several hours.
Major airport in the neighboring state of Bihar, reachable by road from eastern UP districts; useful for visitors combining visits to Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh.
State capital airport with wide domestic connectivity; longer drive but many flight options for reaching the region from other parts of India.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority are farming families involved in smallholder agriculture, seasonal cropping and livestock rearing.
Small-scale artisans, shopkeepers and market traders who supply household goods, food and services.
Young people often migrate seasonally or permanently to larger cities for education and employment, influencing local demographics and remittance patterns.
Predominantly Hindu population with Muslim and other minority groups present in many villages; festivals and religious life shape the social calendar.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport — informal matches take place in village grounds and school fields across age groups.
Traditional contact sport widely played and watched in rural communities and during local festivals.
Traditional wrestling has cultural roots in the region; akharas (wrestling pits) and local competitions may be found in nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Parauli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant (dal, sabzi, paneer dishes). Ask for 'shakahari' (vegetarian) and avoid dishes cooked with ghee if strictly vegan; many local cooks will adjust oil/ghee usage if asked politely.
Vegan options are available but require caution: ask about ghee, yogurt and paneer in mixed dishes. Simple lentil curries with plain rice and vegetable sabzis can usually be prepared vegan on request.
Rice-based dishes and many lentil preparations are naturally gluten-free, but avoid wheat-based rotis, litti, and fried snacks unless you confirm ingredients and shared oil usage.
Carry allergy cards in Hindi if you have severe allergies and communicate clearly to cooks; cross-contamination is possible in small kitchens.