KatiharA vital junction in North Bihar connecting the Northeast to the mainland, defined by its historic jute mills and diverse cultural heritage.
Updated November 2026
Local businesses in Katihar
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Katihar in one minute
Katihar — live weather, population, hidden places and cost of living, auto-updated.
Katihar is a prominent city in the eastern part of Bihar, serving as the administrative headquarters of its namesake district. Historically part of the Purnia Division, the city evolved as a critical transport node during the British Raj due to its proximity to the borders of West Bengal and Bangladesh. It is situated on the plains between the Mahananda and Ganga rivers, facilitating its growth as a regional trade center for agricultural produce.
The city is widely recognized for its Katihar Junction, one of the largest and busiest railway stations in the Indian Railways network. Economic life in the region was traditionally anchored by jute manufacturing, which flourished alongside a vibrant local economy of small-scale industries and wholesale markets. Today, Katihar remains a melting pot of cultures, influenced by its geographical position at the intersection of Mithila and the Surjapuri-speaking belt.
Fast facts
| Status | Municipal Corporation |
| District | Katihar |
| Division | Purnia |
| District population (2011) | ≈3071029 — pending |
| City population (2011) | ≈240838 — pending |
| Urban agglomeration | ≈285400 — pending |
| Density | ≈1100 per sq km |
| Languages | Hindi, Maithili, Surjapuri |
| Main stations | Katihar Junction (KIR) |
| Nearest airport | Bagdogra (IXB) |
| River | Mahananda |
| Sub-divisions | Katihar, Barsoi |
| District literacy | ≈52.28% — pending |
| Famous for | Railway Junction and Jute Mills |
City map
Demographics CENSUS 2011
Last official census — 2021 census deferred, estimates update on release.
2,40,838 residents
per 1,000 males
municipal area (2011)
≈26,492 children (est.)
Hidden & heritage places in Katihar
Katihar beyond the postcards — quiet places and lanes most guides skip.
Gogabil Lake
A seasonal oxbow lake that serves as an important wetland for migratory birds. It is one of the few designated community reserves in Bihar, attracting avian species from Central Asia during winter.
Directions ↗Kalyaneshwari Temple
An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, known for its traditional architecture and local religious significance. It draws large crowds during the Navratri and Diwali seasons.
Directions ↗Ganga Ghat
A sacred riverfront where the Ganges flows majestically. It is a major site for ritual bathing during Kartik Purnima and serves as a vital ferry point for crossing into Jharkhand.
Directions ↗Baba Gorakhnath Temple
A local landmark dedicated to Lord Shiva and Guru Gorakhnath. The temple premises host community gatherings and are particularly active during the Shravan month festivities.
Directions ↗Badi Durga Sthan
The central site for Durga Puja celebrations in the city. This temple is deeply integrated into the local history and serves as the primary focal point for communal prayers.
Directions ↗Barsoi Junction Area
A significant secondary railway hub in the district. The surrounding area is known for its rural charm and the intersection of various rail lines heading toward Siliguri and Malda.
Directions ↗Weekend getaways near Katihar
Approximate road distances from Katihar.
Cost of living in Katihar
Indicative monthly estimates for a single person — verify locally before deciding.
| 1 BHK rent (city) | ₹3,000 – 6,000 / mo |
| 2 BHK rent (city) | ₹6,000 – 11,000 / mo |
| Meal at a local eatery | ₹70 – 150 |
| Groceries (single, month) | ₹3,500 – 5,500 |
| Utilities (basic) | ₹1,200 – 2,500 |
| Monthly total (est.) | ₹10,000 – 17,000 |
Estimates only · tier-3 market · updated with market data over time
What runs Katihar's economy
What actually runs Katihar.
Railway Hub Operations
The city functions as a major transshipment point for Indian Railways, providing extensive employment in maintenance, logistics, and transport services.
Public Sector ↗Jute Processing
Home to historic mills like the Rai Bahadur Hardutroy Motilal Chamria Jute Mill, which processed raw jute from North Bihar and Bengal.
Primary Industry ↗Makhana Processing
The region is a significant producer of Foxnuts (Makhana), with local units involved in popping, grading, and packaging for national export.
Agro-Processing ↗Solar Power Plants
Recent developments include large-scale solar installations intended to boost the renewable energy grid in the Seemanchal region.
Renewables ↗Wholesale Grain Markets
A central hub for the trade of maize, paddy, and wheat, serving as a procurement center for traders across Bihar and West Bengal.
Wholesale ↗Telecom and Banking
As a district headquarters, the city hosts regional offices for major telecommunications firms and public sector banks serving the rural hinterland.
Services ↗Famous food & restaurants in Katihar
Where locals actually eat — local counters, classics and street institutions.
Sagar Restaurant
A popular dining destination known for North Indian thalis and vegetarian specialties located near the heart of the city.
Directions ↗Stalls at Railway Chowk
Famous for local street food including litti chokha, samosas, and tea, catering to the thousands of daily rail passengers.
Directions ↗Local Mithai Shops
Renowned for traditional Bihari sweets like khaja and anarsa, prepared with locally sourced dairy and sugar.
Directions ↗V-Mart Food Court Area
A modern hangout spot offering quick bites, burgers, and south Indian snacks for shoppers and younger crowds.
Directions ↗Verified from local guides · Sep 2026 · hours change — call ahead
Markets & shopping
New Market
The primary commercial district for clothing, electronics, and daily essentials, characterized by bustling lanes and high footfall.
Directions ↗Bara Bazar
The oldest trading hub in the city, specializing in bulk hardware, textiles, and household goods.
Directions ↗Festival & fair calendar
Chhath Puja
The most significant festival involving offerings to the Sun God at the Mahananda river banks.
Durga Puja
Celebrated with grand pandals and cultural programs across the city neighborhoods.
Kali Puja
A major event featuring elaborate lighting and traditional rituals, particularly at the local Kali temples.
Makar Sankranti
Marked by kite flying and the consumption of chura-dahi, celebrating the harvest season.
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FAQ
What is Katihar famous for?
Katihar is primarily known as one of the most important railway junctions in India, connecting Bihar to the Northeast. It is also historically significant for its jute mills and makhana production.
Which rivers flow through Katihar?
The district is bounded by the Ganges in the south and the Mahananda river flows through the city region, significantly influencing its geography and agriculture.
Is Katihar a safe city for travelers?
Katihar is a typical Tier-2 Indian city. It is generally safe for travelers, though standard precautions should be taken when navigating crowded railway station areas at night.
How can I reach Katihar?
The city is best reached by train via Katihar Junction, which has direct connectivity to Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. The nearest commercial airport is at Bagdogra.