The Gateway to the Kosi Region – Land of Festivals, Rivers & Rural Culture
Saharsa, nestled on the banks of the Kosi River, is a vibrant district in north-eastern Bihar and often called the “Heart of Kosi”. Famous for its paddy fields, banana plantations, local fairs, and unique Maithil culture, Saharsa is a beautiful blend of rural traditions and urban growth.
The district headquarters is Saharsa town, a major center for trade, education, and administration. With the ever-shifting Kosi shaping its geography, Saharsa’s land is among the most fertile in the state.
Known for the grand celebration of Chhath Puja, regional fairs, and Maithili art, Saharsa is a must-visit for those wanting to experience true Bihar beyond the cities.
Located at 25.88°N, 86.60°E; area ~1,686 sq km. Traversed by Kosi and its distributaries, famous for fertile alluvial plains.
Population: ~2 million. Maithil & rural communities dominate. Major languages: Maithili, Hindi. Literacy: ~54%. Major occupation: Agriculture.
Historic ties to Mithila and ancient Kosi civilization. Formed in 1954 from Bhagalpur district. Center for Maithil culture and literature.
Tip: Visit from November to March for the best climate & festival vibe!
Iconic lake and temple complex, scenic for boating & Chhath Puja celebrations.
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Relax on scenic riverbanks, especially during Chhath Puja. Famous for sunrise, sunset, and rural vibes.
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The iconic bridge over Kosi, offering panoramic river views and a popular sunset spot.
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Visit sprawling banana plantations; Saharsa is one of Bihar’s largest banana-producing areas.
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Experience rural life, folk shows, and traditional shopping at the annual local fairs.
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Saharsa’s cultural life is full of color—Chhath Puja, Holi, Durga Puja, Eid, and Diwali are major celebrations. Chhath on the Kosi ghats is world famous.
Maithili folk music (Jat-Jatin, Bhagal, Sohar), rural dance, and vibrant fairs reflect local spirit. Women often wear traditional Maithili sarees, and community ties run deep.
Local artists are skilled in Maithili painting, bamboo craft, and pottery. Fairs and haats are great for experiencing the district’s living heritage.
Walk through Saharsa’s bustling markets to buy fresh bananas, handloom, rural crafts, and taste local snacks!
Heart of town—shop for clothing, rural handicrafts, and sample authentic street food!
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Saharsa’s favorite—wheat balls filled with sattu, roasted and eaten with spicy chokha.
Sweet, crunchy wheat-jaggery snack—specialty of Chhath Puja and local fairs.
Hearty flatbread stuffed with seasoned sattu, served with chutneys or curd.
Sweet, syrupy pancakes made for festivals like Holi—irresistible dessert!
Spicy black chickpea snack—local breakfast & popular street food in Saharsa.
Traditional cold drink made from sattu, lemon, water, and spices—refreshing in summer.
November–March: Best climate, all major fairs. Monsoon: Very green, river in full flow.
Chhath Puja (Oct/Nov), Holi, and Makar Sankranti are festive highlights!
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Book ahead during big festivals like Chhath Puja!
Saharsa celebrates festivals with heart—don’t miss these events!
| Festival | Month | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Chhath Puja | Oct / Nov | Grand rituals on Kosi ghats, folk music, devotional food |
| Matsyagandha Mela | Jan / Feb | Temple fair, rural shows, boating on lake |
| Holi | March | Colors, sweets, folk performances, fairs |
| Diwali | Oct / Nov | Diya lighting, home feasts, community gatherings |
| Eid-ul-Fitr | Varies | Special prayers, community feasts, shopping in markets |
| Makar Sankranti | Jan | Kite flying, rice sweets, local markets |
Visit Singheshwar Dham temple, fairs, and lush farmlands in this close-by district.
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Lively city for shopping, parks, and historical sites—perfect day trip from Saharsa.
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Ancient silk city on the Ganga, famous for Vikramshila University and Tussar silk.
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