Sunauli Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sunauli with this comprehensive travel guide, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Sunauli

Sunauli is a small town in the Purvanchal region of Uttar Pradesh, located in the Indo-Gangetic Plains of Northern India. Sunauli is a popular travel destination for many reasons, including its proximity to the Nepal-India border, its rich history and culture, and its beautiful natural surroundings.

List of Places to Visit in Sunauli

If you’re planning a trip to Sunauli, here are some must-see attractions to check out:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sunauli Border - The Sunauli Border between India and Nepal is a popular tourist spot. You can visit the border and see the customs office, and take a photo with one foot in India and one foot in Nepal.

  • Lumbini - Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, is located just a short drive from Sunauli. The sacred site houses several temples and monasteries and is a necessary stop for any spiritual traveler.

  • Kushinagar - Kushinagar is another important Buddhist site located near Sunauli. This is where Buddha died and attained Parinirvana. Visitors can see ancient stupas and ruins.

Natural Attractions of Sunauli: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chitwan National Park - Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just across the border in Nepal. The park is perfect for nature-lovers and houses a variety of endangered animals such as tigers and rhinos.

  • Gorakhpur Bird Sanctuary - Just 45km from Sunauli, the Gorakhpur Bird Sanctuary is a great spot for birdwatchers. The sanctuary houses numerous species of birds including migratory birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sunauli

Sunauli has several hiking and biking trails that offer stunning scenery of the surrounding areas. You can go on a trek to explore the unspoiled beauty of the local flora and fauna, or rent a bicycle to tour the countryside at a leisurely pace.

Best Things to Do in Sunauli: Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours available for visitors in Sunauli. Here are a few popular options:

  • White Water Rafting - The nearby Bhote Koshi River in Nepal is fantastic for white water rafting.

  • Sightseeing Tour - Join a guided sightseeing tour to see the major attractions in Sunauli, including the Sunauli Border, Lumbini, and the Gorakhpur Bird Sanctuary.

  • Yoga and Meditation Retreats - Sunauli is known for its spiritual culture, and many yoga and meditation retreats are available for visitors who want to relax and reconnect with themselves.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sunauli

Here’s a sample itinerary to get the most out of your week-long trip to Sunauli:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Sunauli, check into your hotel, and explore the local area
Day 2 Visit the Lumbini and explore the local temples
Day 3 Explore the natural splendor of Sunauli by trekking or biking in the nearby national parks
Day 4 Take a day trip to Kushinagar, the ancient Buddhist temple site
Day 5 Take a yoga or meditation class and relax in the tranquil surroundings
Day 6 Go on an adventure white-water rafting in neighboring Nepal
Day 7 Spend the day souvenir shopping or exploring more sights before departing Sunauli

Food and Drink Scene of Sunauli

Hunger and thirst is not an issue when traveling in Sunauli. Here’s what to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bati Chokha - This popular North Indian dish is made from oven-baked wheat balls that are served with a spicy mix of roasted eggplant, mashed potatoes, and tomatoes. It’s usually paired with aromatic dal (lentil soup).

  • Samosa - This famous Indian snack is a deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potato and peas.

Local Beverages

  • Lassi - A popular and refreshing drink, lassi is a sweet and creamy yogurt-based drink, which is commonly flavoured with rose, mango, or other fruit flavors.

  • Chai - India’s famous masala chai is a spicy-sweet tea made by simmering tea, milk, and spices.

Where to Stay in Sunauli: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sunauli has many accommodation options to meet the needs of all travelers. Here are some popular options:

  • Hotel Poonam Palace - This comfortable hotel has clean accommodations and warm hospitality. It is located just a few meters from the Sunauli border.

  • Sanjay hotel - Located near the Gorakhpur railway station, this hotel provides comfortable accommodations for travelers in Sunauli.

What to Buy in Sunauli: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Sunauli, there are many locally made souvenirs and handicrafts you can buy as souvenirs. Here are a few ideas:

  • Terracotta Pottery - Sunauli is well-known for its high-quality terracotta pottery.

  • Chikankari Embroidery - This delicate hand embroidery is known for the graceful, floral cotton work and is a specialty of Uttar Pradesh.

Local Culture and Customs of Sunauli

Sunauli’s local culture is rich and varied, with a deep-rooted religious tradition. Visitors should dress modestly and be respectful when visiting religious sites. Locals are usually friendly and welcome travelers with open arms.

Best Time to Visit Sunauli

The best time to visit Sunauli is between October and April when the weather is comfortable, and there is less rainfall. The summer months can be quite hot and humid, while the winter months can be chilly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sunauli

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink tap water or eat street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

  • Don’t visit without the necessary travel documents if crossing the border from India to Nepal.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sunauli

Sunauli is a pretty safe place to visit, but visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Health in Sunauli

Visitors should ensure they have all the necessary vaccinations before traveling to Sunauli. Also, it’s important to drink bottled water and avoid eating street food to avoid any stomach upsets.

Getting to Sunauli: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sunauli

  • Gorakhpur Airport - Gorakhpur Airport is the nearest airport to Sunauli, located approximately 80 km away.

Bus Stations Near Sunauli

  • Sunauli Bus Stand - The main bus station in Sunauli is located near the border.

Other Options

  • Train - Visitors can take a train from Gorakhpur railway station to Sunauli, which is just 68kms away.

How to Get Around in Sunauli

Visitors have several options to get around in Sunauli, such as auto-rickshaws, buses, and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Sunauli: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sunauli is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area, with several destinations and excursions nearby. Some popular options include:

  • Chitwan National Park - This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located across the border in Nepal and is famous for its wildlife and natural beauty.

  • Ayodhya - Ayodhya is a sacred city and is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama.

Conclusion

Sunauli is a vibrant and culturally rich town with plenty of activities to keep visitors occupied. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, Sunauli has something to offer every traveler. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip to Sunauli and make the most of your visit.