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Hariharnath Temple, a renowned temple devoted to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, sits as a symbol of spiritual unity in Sonepur, Bihar. The temple, placed next to the Ganga, draws both pilgrims and tourists, who are attracted to its peaceful atmosphere and rich history. The temple, whose origins may be dated back to the epic Ramayana, represents India’s ancient spiritual heritage. Devotees believe that praying here brings benefits and the fulfilment of wishes. Whether seeking divine blessings or admiring the temple’s architectural splendour, Hariharnath Temple is a must-see for anybody visiting Bihar.
Location
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The temple is located in Sonepur, a small town in Bihar’s Saran district. The temple’s gorgeous position, at the intersection of the Ganga and Gandak rivers, adds to its spiritual value. Sonepur is known for its annual cattle fair, which is one of the largest in Asia, adding to the town’s cultural significance. The temple’s proximity to the Ganga River serves as a perfect spot for pilgrims to perform rituals and offer prayers. The calm settings make it an ideal location for spiritual introspection. Also, Hariharnath Temple address is easy to navigate.
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How To Reach
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By Air: The temple is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. The nearest airport is Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport in Patna, which is approximately 30 kilometres away. Taxis and buses may transport you directly to the temple from the airport.
By Rail: If you’re travelling by train you can take a train from Patna Junction, to the Sonepur Junction, which is about 2 kilometres from the temple. Frequent trains connect Sonepur to major towns such as Patna, Delhi, and Kolkata.
By Road: Sonepur is easily accessible by car, with national highways connecting it to nearby cities. Local buses and auto-rickshaws are easily accessible for last-mile connection.
Places To Visit Near Hariharnath Temple
1. Sonepur Cattle Fair
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The Sonepur Cattle Fair, held annually in Sonepur, is one of Asia’s largest fairs, bringing tourists from all over the world. The fair, which begins on Kartik Purnima in November, offers a wide variety of cattle, horses, and elephants for sale. Aside from the cattle, the fair contains cultural performances, local artwork, and food stalls, making it a lively affair. Visiting during the fair offers a unique viewpoint on the region’s cultural and economic life.
Distance: 1.1 km from the temple
Timings: November to December
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2. Patna Sahib Gurudwara
Photo: Shivamsetu / Wikimedia Commons
Patna Sahib Gurudwara is a highly respected Sikh pilgrimage location. This gurudwara, dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, is an architectural artwork with a white marble building and golden domes. The gurudwara’s composed environment and historical significance make it an absolute must for those interested in Bihar’s spiritual past. The location offers langar (community meals) and welcomes people of all faiths. The meal served here is one of the most fulfilling meals anyone can ever consume.
Distance: 30 km from the temple
Timings: 3 AM – 9 PM
3. Mahavir Mandir
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The Mahavir Mandir in Patna has become one of India’s biggest Hanuman temples. It attracts millions of devotees each year, particularly during festivities such as Ram Navami. The temple’s basic yet strong atmosphere, along with the continual reading of Hanuman Chalisa, offers an extremely spiritual experience. The temple is also renowned for its charitable activities, which include hospitals and educational institutions, making it an important religious and social hub in Bihar.
Distance: 24 km from the temple
Timings: 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM
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4. Buddha Smriti Park
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Buddha Smriti Park is a modern monument to Lord Buddha’s life and teachings. The park includes a towering Stupa, a meditation centre, and a museum with Buddhist relics. You can explore the peaceful gardens, participate in meditation classes, and learn about Bihar’s rich Buddhist history. The park’s calm environment and educational exhibits make it an absolute must for those interested in spirituality and history, offering a peaceful break from the hectic pace of urban life.
Distance: 24 km from the temple
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
5. Golghar
Photo: Bhassingh / Wikimedia Commons
Built by the British in 1786 as a grain storage facility, this enormous, dome-shaped tower offers a panoramic view of the Ganga River and the city of Patna from its top. You can climb the 145 steps to the top for an amazing view, especially at sunset, when the setting sun turns the holy river into various shades of orange and red. Golghar is not only an engineering marvel, but it acts as a reminder of the city’s colonial history.
Distance: 20 km from the temple
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
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Where To Stay
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Accommodation around the temple ranges from low-cost hotels to comfortable guesthouses. Sonepur offers a few small hotels that offer limited amenities and are close to the temple. For more deluxe accommodations, guests can stay in Patna, which is just 30 kilometres away and provides more options, including premium hotels and heritage houses such as Hotel Raj, Hotel Maurya, Lemon Tree Premier, & Hotel Chanakya.
Where To Eat
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You can have appetising food at local Sonepur restaurants that serve traditional Bihari food. These little restaurants serve wonderful foods such as Litti chokha, sattu paratha, and Khaja. Patna offers a wide range of dining options, including Indian and international cuisines. If you are craving some fast food, you can find it anywhere in Patna.
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Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit Hariharnath Temple, Bihar is in the winter, from October to March when the climate is mild and perfect for sightseeing. A visit during Kartik Purnima in November is especially auspicious, as it aligns with the famous Sonepur Cattle Fair. This period also allows tourists to take advantage of the temple’s lively environment during the fair. Avoid going during the monsoon season, as the area may experience heavy rain, making travelling difficult.
Other Factors To Consider
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- Visit the temple during Kartik Purnima, which coincides with the Sonepur Cattle Fair. This period offers a unique cultural experience, with vibrant festivities and a chance to witness the fair.
- Wear traditional or modest attire to the temple as a sign of respect.
- Leave your shoes in the designated area before entering the temple.
- Carry water, especially during summer visits to keep yourself hydrated.
- There are very few ATMs around the temple. So it is advised to carry cash for any sort of transaction.
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Hariharnath Temple, with its deep history and spiritual environment, is a must-see for anyone searching for a meaningful and culturally enlightening experience. There is a lot to see and do, including touring the temple’s sacred spaces and visiting local attractions. Are you ready to explore the temple and its surroundings? Book your tour today with TripXL to ensure a smooth and memorable journey.
Cover Photo: Karoly Buzas / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
