Patna: The world-renowned Harihar Kshetra Sonepur Fair has opened once again in Bihar, drawing visitors and devotees from across India and abroad. Billed as Asia’s largest cattle fair, it has seen significant upgrades this year, with the state tourism department announcing expanded security and improved amenities for the month-long event.
One of the key new offerings is a tour package tailored for couples. Priced at Rs 6,000, the package includes hotel accommodation, travel in an air-conditioned car, the services of a trained guide, and all meals — from breakfast to dinner.
Near the fairgrounds, a tourist village has been set up featuring modern Swiss-style luxury cottages. The tents, designed to evoke royal aesthetics, have been categorised as Mini Darbari and Rajwadi, and include air-conditioning, attached bathrooms, round-the-clock electricity and water, and full security. Domestic tourists are being charged Rs 3,000 a night, while foreign visitors pay Rs 5,000.
The Bihar Tourism Development Corporation has also arranged dedicated luxury vehicles operating between Patna and Sonepur to ease travel for visitors.
Officials say the new facilities are attracting considerable international interest. Among the early arrivals this year are 14 tourists from Japan and eight from Germany, along with several domestic travellers who have opted to stay in the Swiss cottages.
The Sonepur Fair, held annually from Kartik Purnima at the confluence of the Ganga and Gandak rivers, is considered one of the oldest fairs in India. Over the course of its month-long run, millions of devotees visit the sacred site to take ritual baths and participate in what remains the subcontinent’s most prominent cattle fair.
