One of Asia's biggest cattle fairs is the Sonepur Mela in northern Bihar. This mela is held on the banks of the river Ganga every year on Kartik Poornima in November. The fair is also called Harihar Kshetra Mela. This fair is famous for trading cattle, breeds of dogs, elephants, birds, and camels. Devotees also take a dip at the confluence of the river for purification and blessings.
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Sonepur Mela Highlights
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Particulars |
Details |
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Name |
Sonepur Mela |
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Dates |
November 13 - December 14, 2024 |
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Explore |
Decorated Elephants |
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Location |
Sonepur, Bihar |
History of Sonepur Mela
During the Chandragupta Maurya time, the emperor bought elephants and horses for his army during the fair. It is also believed that the two brothers were devotees of Lord Vishnu, they accidentally cast a magical spell on each other due to which one turned into an honest elephant and the other a ferocious crocodile.
On a full moon day, the elephant bathed at this river confluence. The crocodile attacked it a few moments later. Sensing the elephant's distress, Lord Vishnu had to intervene to push the chariot of good over evil. Thus, today, Sonepur Mela, in addition to its cattle trading dominance, has a religious component.
What to Explore at the Sonepur Mela
- Just like the Pushkar Mela of Rajasthan is known for camels, the Sonepur Mela is famous for decorated elephants put for sale.
- You can explore the Haathi Bazaar, where you can touch and feed the elephants during the auction.
- There are other stalls also put up for trading of birds, poultries, and cattle.
- You can also shop for agriculture implements, garments, perfumes, handicrafts, and utensils in wood and brass.
- Visitors and devotees also take a dip at the sacred confluence of River Ganga and River Gandak.
- There will be sports adventures and a book fair organized at the mela.
How to Reach
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Particulars |
Details |
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Airways |
Patna Airport (30 km) |
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Railways |
Sonepur Junction |
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Roadways |
Hajipur Bus Stop (5 km) |
FAQs
Q: When will the Sonepur Mela Bihar Happen?
A: Sonepur Mela Bihar 2024 will happen from November 13 and will go on till December 14, 2024.
Q: Where will the Sonepur Mela 2024 happen in Bihar?
A: Sonepur Mela 2024 will happen on the confluence of River Ganga and River Gandak in the Sonepur District in Bihar.