Sonepur Mela One of Asia’s largest cattle fair and the pride of northern Bihar, Sonepur fair is held on the banks of the Ganga River at the confluence with its tributary, Gandak. Not only cattle but also different breeds of dogs, elephants, camels, and species of birds are also sold at this fair.
Every year the fair takes place on the auspicious dates of Kartik Poornima (full moon day) in November. People come from far-away locations just to take part in this huge Sonepur Mela.
Sonepur comes under the Saran district which is located in the northern part of Bihar. The Sonepur Mela is one of the famous fairs of Bihar which is held on the bank of River Ganga. This place is situated at a distance of approx. 25 km from the capital city Patna. This fair is also known as ‘Harihar Kshetra Mela’ as it is celebrated in the memory of Lt. Baba Harihar Nath.
History of Sonepur Mela
Sonepur Mela has its origins traced back to the times of Chandragupta Maurya, the first ruler of India. Historians believe that the emperor used this fair as an opportunity to make purchases of elephants and horses for his huge army. The cattle fair also beholds a mythological narration about its history. As per the legend, there were two brothers; both utmost devotees of Lord Vishnu, enchanted a magical spell on each other accidentally. As a result, one turned into an honest elephant, while the other a ferocious crocodile.
Once during a full moon day, the elephant was enjoying a bath at this very confluence of rivers. Moments later, it was attacked by the crocodile. Sensing the trouble of the elephant, Lord Vishnu had to intervene to push the chariot of victory of the good over evil. Thus, in the present day, Sonepur Mela along with its cattle trading supremacy, holds a religious angle as well.
Celebrations & Attractions of Sonepur Mela
Just like the legendary state Rajasthan boasts about camels in the Pushkar Fair, Sonepur Mela in Bihar also has a wide range of decorated elephants all lined up for sale & purchase, which is meant as ‘the star attraction’. Bejeweled giant elephants are a sight to behold. Elephants are the main attraction of Sonepur Mela which increases the beauty of the fair.
On medieval occasions, traders from as far as Central Asia used to come here for the exchange of animals in the Sonepur Cattle Fair. Indeed, even today, it is the biggest cattle fair of Asia that goes on from about fifteen days to the entire month.
Another main attraction of this fair is the sighting of various enhanced elephants all arranged up for sale in Haazi Bazaar. Countless Indian breed horses are additionally exchanged or traded here.
Enjoy mind boggling performances of artists & craftsmen in Folk shows, diversions and tricks of jugglers. Other exciting things are merchandise like handicraft works, local clothing, Sonepur Mela toys, weapons, utensil, and agricultural tools, and local Indian adornments are accessible available to be purchased through the stalls here.
Tips for visiting the Mela
- Enjoy the festival & stay alert in the dark, beware of pick-pocketers and avoid crowded areas & places of the stampede.
- Avoid carrying loaded materials, cameras, mobile phones & other valuables.
- Walking around throughout the fair will be at your best to see the entire Sonepur Mela.
How to reach Sonepur
By Air
Patna airport is the nearest airport Sonepur, which is located at a distance of 30 km. This airport is well- connected through regular flights with important cities of India.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is Sonepur Junction, proudly having the world’s 8th largest railway platform. This railway station is well-connected to important cities of the country through regular trains.
By Road
The nearest bus stand is in Hajipur. 5 km away from Sonepur. Via road, Sonepur is 25 km away from Patna. Taxis, buses, three wheelers and tongas are available.