Katihār, India
Region: Bihar
Geographic Coordinates: 25.530000, 87.580000
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 40.0°C (68°F to 104°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 240565
Language: Hindi
Katihar is a city located in the state of Bihar, India. It is situated on the banks of River Kosi and is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The city has been a prominent center for trade and commerce since ancient times due to its strategic location on the Silk Route. The history of Katihar dates back to the Mauryan Empire, Which ruled over this region from 322 BC to 185 BC. During this period, Katihar was an important center for trade and commerce between India and other countries like China, Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar etc.
Later on, It became a part of various empires like Gupta Empire (4th-5th century AD), Pala Dynasty (8th-12th century AD), Mughal Empire (16th-18th century AD) before coming under British rule in 1765. One of the major attractions in Katihar is the Kali Temple which is dedicated to Goddess Kali. It was built during the reign of King Raja Baldev Sahi in 1733 AD and is considered one of the oldest temples in Bihar. Another important place to visit here is Manihari Ghat which serves as an entry point for pilgrims visiting Purnia district’s famous temple – Kali Bari Mandir.
Apart from historical monuments and temples, Katihar also offers some scenic spots for nature lovers such as Barauni Wildlife Sanctuary which houses several species like tigers, Leopards, Elephants etc., Making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
For those interested in local cuisine can try out some delicious delicacies such as Litti Chokha – a popular dish made with roasted gram flour balls stuffed with sattu (roasted chickpea flour) served with mashed potatoes mixed with spices; Sattu Sharbat – a refreshing drink made from roasted gram flour; Malpua – a sweet dish made with flour, Milk, Sugar syrup and cardamom powder. Overall, Katihar is a city that offers something for everyone. It is an ideal destination for history buffs, Nature lovers and foodies alike.
The rich cultural heritage and historical significance of the city make it a must-visit destination in Bihar.
- Manihari Ghat: A famous spot for boating and picnicking located on the banks of the Ganges River.
- Kali Temple: A temple dedicated to Goddess Kali that is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
- Katihar Museum: The museum showcases artifacts related to the history and culture of Katihar.
- Barari Park: A beautiful park with lush greenery, fountains, and walking trails that attract tourists and locals alike.
- Shiv Mandir: Another famous temple in Katihar dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Mahavir Mandir: A Jain temple that attracts devotees from all over India.
- Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary: Located around 25 km from Katihar, this sanctuary is home to various species of migratory birds during winters.
- Kursela Fort: An ancient fort built during the Mughal era that provides a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
- Durga Mandir: A Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga located in the heart of Katihar city.
- National Highway 31 Market: One of the biggest marketplaces situated at NH-31 road where people can buy clothes, furniture, grocery items, etc.
- The major industries and businesses in Katihar, India include:
- Agriculture
- Dairy farming
- Small-scale manufacturing units
- Food processing industry
- Retail trade
- The region is known for its production of:
- Rice
- Wheat
- Maize
- Jute
- Sugarcane
- Additionally, there are a few:
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Packaging industries
- The city also has a railway divisional office which provides employment to many people.
- Gautama Buddha is believed to have visited Katihār during his journey through India.
- The Mauryan emperor Ashoka is said to have built a stupa in Katihār.
- During the medieval period, Katihār was ruled by various dynasties including the Pala, Sena, and Gupta empires.
- In 1765, the British East India Company took control of Katihār as part of their expansion into India.
- Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, a famous Hindi poet and writer was born in Simaria village near Katihar in 1908.
- In 1942, Mahatma Gandhi visited Katihar as part of his Quit India movement against British rule.
- Many freedom fighters from this region contributed significantly during the Indian independence movement like Dr Rajendra Prasad who became the first President of independent India belonged to Siwan district which was under undivided Bihar before Independence.
- The famous Hindi film actor Manoj Bajpayee studied at Satya Narayan Academy in Belwa village near katihar for some time before joining National School of Drama (NSD).
- Katihar is also known for its contribution towards Indian Railways where it has one divisional office that caters to entire North-Eastern region railways operations.
- Kali Temple: A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali.
- Shiv Mandir: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Katihar Museum: The museum showcases the history and culture of the region.
- Baidyanath Temple: A significant pilgrimage site for Hindus located in Deoghar, near Katihar.
- Barari Park: A popular picnic spot and park with a lake and boating facilities.
- Mahagama Fort: An ancient fort built by the Mauryan Empire that now serves as a historical site for tourists.
- Pothia Palace: An impressive palace built during the British Raj era that is now used as a government office.
- Chhath Puja: A four-day festival celebrated in Bihar and Jharkhand to worship the Sun God.
- Durga Puja: A ten-day festival celebrated with enthusiasm throughout West Bengal, Bihar, and other parts of India.
- Holi: A colorful festival celebrated with great excitement across India.
- Eid-ul-Fitr: A Muslim festival observed after Ramadan.
- Diwali: The Festival of Lights is a five-day celebration that takes place throughout India.
- Bishari Mela: An annual fair held at Bishari village near Katihar during February-March every year.
- Kali Puja: Another significant Hindu festival that commemorates Goddess Kali’s victory over evil forces on Amavasya night (new moon day).
- Litti Chokha: A traditional dish of Bihar made with roasted wheat balls stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour) and served with mashed potatoes and brinjal.
- Samosa: A deep-fried snack filled with spiced potatoes and peas.
- Chaat: A popular street food snack consisting of crispy fried dough wafers topped with boiled chickpeas, potatoes, yogurt, chutneys, and spices.
- Biryani: A fragrant rice dish cooked with meat or vegetables and a blend of aromatic spices.
- Raj Darbar Restaurant: Known for its North Indian cuisine including biryani, kebabs, curries and tandoori dishes.
- The Royal Kitchen Restaurant: Offers a variety of vegetarian dishes like paneer tikka masala and palak paneer as well as non-vegetarian options like butter chicken curry.
- Hotel Shivam Palace: Serves traditional Bihari thali meals which include dal (lentil soup), rice, roti (flatbread), sabzi (vegetable curry) along with other accompaniments.
- Shree Sai Fast Food Corner: Popular for its chaats like papdi chaat and bhel puri along with samosas and other snacks served hot right off the stove.
- Gandhi Maidan – a large park with walking trails, playgrounds, and a stage for events.
- Jai Prakash Narayan Park – another popular park with jogging tracks, picnic spots, and a children’s play area.
- Kali Mandir Park – a small but beautiful park with lush greenery and a temple dedicated to the goddess Kali.
- Katihar Stadium – an outdoor sports complex that hosts cricket matches, football games, and athletic events.
- Boating at Balrampur Lake – visitors can rent paddle boats or rowboats to explore this scenic lake located on the outskirts of the city.
- Cycling at NH27 Highway- A long stretch of highway is perfect for cycling enthusiasts as they can enjoy the scenic beauty while cycling.
- Fishing at Mahananda River- Mahananda River offers fishing opportunities to fishing enthusiasts who want to spend time in nature while enjoying their hobby.
- Swimming at Hotel Royal Residency- Hotel Royal Residency has an outdoor swimming pool where visitors can take a refreshing dip during hot summer months.
