Things To Do
in Sonhauli
Sonhauli is a small town in Bihar that reflects rural Bhojpuri life and warm hospitality. Surrounded by fields, rivers, and ancient temples, it offers an authentic glimpse of everyday life away from crowded metros. The town is a convenient base for exploring nearby villages, crafts, and scenic countryside on foot or by bicycle.
Visitors can expect flavorful home-style food, simple comforts, and a pace of life that invites exploration at a relaxed tempo.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Sonhauli airport and check into your selected accommodation. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, savoring the flavors of regional cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll around the nearby markets, soaking in the vibrant local life.
After a peaceful morning, explore the local attractions like the beautiful temples and parks that Sonhauli has to offer. Engage with friendly locals, learning about their customs and traditions. For lunch, indulge in some delicious street food that captures the essence of local flavors.
As the sun sets, take a guided evening tour of the town to witness the stunning sunsets over the landscape. Treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a popular restaurant, sampling authentic dishes from the region. End the night with a cultural performance or local music session.
Start your day with an invigorating nature walk through nearby trails, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views. Breathe in the fresh air as you spot various birds and wildlife, making your morning a refreshing experience. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature, enhancing your connection with the outdoors.
Continue your exploration by visiting nearby picturesque waterfalls, where you can dip your feet in the cool water and enjoy the serenity. Prepare a picnic lunch to enjoy by the falls, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon swimming or relaxing at the location, making sure to capture memories with photos.
Return to Sonhauli as the day winds down and enjoy a relaxing evening at your accommodation. Dine at a local restaurant, opting for traditional Punjabi dishes that tantalize your taste buds. Share stories and reflect on your day while sitting around a bonfire, if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🫖Tea or coffee | $0.25-1.50 |
| 🚍Short local transport | $0.50-2 |
| 🧺Groceries (1 kg rice or lentils) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Genuine small-town Bihar experience with friendly locals
- Affordable prices and easy-to-navigate, compact town
- Limited nightlife and fewer English-speaking services
- Fewer luxury amenities and longer travel times to larger cities
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kripya madad kijiye" - Please help
- "Aap kahan se hain?" - Where are you from?
- "Kaisan baa?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Sonhauli
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over ancient temple archways and bustling morning markets makes for atmospheric portraits.
Colorful stalls, baskets, and everyday interactions provide candid street photography opportunities.
Wide horizons and silhouettes of farmers and boats create striking silhouettes at dusk.
Expansive fields with tractors, workers, and horizon lines ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.
Food in Sonhauli
Sonhauli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Charred dough balls stuffed with sattu, served with chokha made of roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and potatoes. Look for it at local dhabas and street stalls.
Must-Try!
Flatbread stuffed with roasted gram flour, typically served with pickles or yogurt for a fulfilling meal.
Lentil curry with plain rice, a staple in many homes and modest eateries.
Spiced chickpeas simmered with onions, tomatoes, and spices; popular as a light snack or side dish.
Light, cooling rice-based dish variations often enjoyed in warm weather with yogurt or pickle.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daily market with street stalls selling litti chokha, chaat, samosas, bhujia, and fresh produce.
Seasonal stalls along the river selling fried fish, snacks, and light bites during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and ask before taking photos inside temples.
Greet with Namaste or Pranam; use Ji as a respectful suffix after names.
Safety
Tipping in Sonhauli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in rural eateries; round up the bill or leave small coins for service in dhabas or hotels.
Cash is the most widely accepted; many places are starting to accept mobile wallets (UPI, Paytm, PhonePe) and some larger shops may take cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days with high humidity; carry water, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Heavily humid with frequent rains; waterproof footwear and rain gear are essential; some rural roads can be muddy or flooded.
Cool to cold mornings and pleasant afternoons; bring a light jacket for early hours and evenings.
Sonhauli at Night
Hiking in Sonhauli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-covered hills with seasonal trails and viewpoints near Sasaram and surrounding districts.
Gentle trails along nearby rivers with farmland scenery and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Sonhauli by plane.
Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, about 100-120 km from Sonhauli; well-connected to major Indian cities; road or rail transfer to town.
Bodhgaya Airport, approximately 180-260 km away; suitable for domestic connections; longer drive to reach Sonhauli.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant religious group with diverse communities and local cultural traditions.
Significant minority contributing to local cuisine, crafts, and festivals.
Caste-based and regional diversity typical of rural Bihar.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; casual matches on streets and in fields are common.
Traditional sport played in villages and local tournaments.
Played in schools and open grounds, especially among youth.
Traditional sport with local wrestling pits and gymnasiums in rural areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sonhauli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are plentiful; look for dal, chana, chowel (rice), and seasonal vegetables. If you’re unsure, ask for dal-tadka or sabzi with roti and chokha instead of meat dishes.