Sonepur Mela is a major annual fair held at Sonepur in Bihar, near the confluence of the Ganga and Gandak rivers. Traditionally associated with livestock trading, the fair also brings together handicrafts, food stalls, exhibitions and cultural performances. It begins around Kartik Purnima, when pilgrims gather for ritual bathing and worship at the nearby Harihar Nath Temple.
Sonepur Mela usually extends over several weeks and attracts large crowds from Bihar and beyond. Patna is a practical regional transport base, but visitors should check the Bihar Tourism announcement for the year's confirmed dates, programme and travel arrangements. Comfortable footwear is useful across the extensive grounds, and travellers should safeguard belongings, use authorised transport and follow local crowd-management guidance during busy festival days.