Janakpur, a city located in Province No. 2 of Nepal, is a place of great historical, cultural, and religious significance. Situated in the eastern Terai region, near the border with India, Janakpur is renowned as the birthplace of Goddess Sita and holds a prominent position in Hindu mythology. The city is associated with the ancient Kingdom of Mithila, ruled by King Janaka, the father of Sita. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, came to win Sita’s hand in marriage. This mythological connection has made Janakpur a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, attracting devotees from all over the world.
Quick Facts
| Location | Janaki chok, Janakpur 45600 |
| Area | 1,480 square metres (15,930 sq. feet) |
| Festivals | Vivaha Panchami, Rama Navami, Dashain, Tihar-Deepawali and Chhath |
| Built on | 1910 AD |
| Available transportation | Public Vehicles, Private vehicles, Rickshaws |
Janakpur is best known for its magnificent Janaki Mandir, a stunning Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Sita. Also known as the Naulakha Mandir, it was constructed in the 20th century and features impressive architectural details, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful artwork. The temple serves as a focal point for religious ceremonies and festivities, drawing devotees and tourists alike.
The city’s vibrant culture and heritage are reflected in its festivals and events. Vivah Panchami, the celebration of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita’s wedding, is the most prominent festival in Janakpur. It is observed with great enthusiasm, featuring grand processions, colorful rituals, and traditional performances. The festival showcases the city’s rich traditions and provides a captivating glimpse into the religious customs of the region.
Janakpur is also renowned for its Madhubani art, a unique form of painting that originated in the Mithila region. The city is home to numerous talented artists who create intricate and colorful Madhubani paintings, showcasing themes from mythology, nature, and daily life. These artworks have gained international recognition and are treasured for their beauty and cultural significance.
Major Attractions of Janakpur
- Janaki Mandir (Naulakha Mandir): The Janaki Mandir is a magnificent Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Sita, located in the heart of Janakpur. This temple is a masterpiece of architecture, featuring intricate wood carvings, detailed artwork, and exquisite craftsmanship. It serves as a focal point for religious ceremonies and attracts a large number of devotees and tourists.
- Ram Janaki Bibaha Mandap: This is a sacred marriage pavilion located in Janakpur, which commemorates the wedding of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. It is believed to be the exact spot where the divine wedding took place, according to Hindu mythology. The Bibaha Panchami festival, celebrated annually, reenacts this auspicious event and attracts a significant gathering of devotees.
- Ganga Sagar: Ganga Sagar is a sacred pond located near the Janaki Mandir. Devotees consider it highly auspicious to take a holy dip in its waters before visiting the temple. The pond is associated with various mythological tales and is believed to possess purifying properties.
- Ram Mandir: Situated near the Janaki Mandir, the Ram Mandir is another important religious site in Janakpur. It is dedicated to Lord Rama, the central character of the epic Ramayana. Devotees offer prayers and seek blessings at this temple, especially during festivals and religious occasions.
- Dhanush Sagar: Dhanush Sagar is a sacred tank located in the southern part of Janakpur. It is believed to be the spot where Lord Rama broke Lord Shiva’s divine bow during the swayamvar (marriage ceremony) of Sita. The tank has great significance in Hindu mythology and attracts visitors who come to witness its historical and religious importance.
- Mithila Art Gallery: Janakpur is renowned for its intricate and colorful Madhubani paintings, which are a form of Mithila art. The Mithila Art Gallery showcases a diverse collection of these traditional paintings, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore and appreciate this unique art form.
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Tips before visiting
- Best Time to Visit: October to February offers pleasant weather.
- Dress Code: Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Currency: Carry enough Nepalese Rupees (NPR) as credit cards may not be widely accepted.
- Local Customs: Respect local traditions, seek permission for photography, and follow religious practices.
- Language: Nepali is widely spoken, along with Maithili in Janakpur. English is spoken in tourist areas.
- Local Cuisine: Try sweet Lassi, crispy and spicy Taruwa, Litti Chokha, and Ghewar
- Transportation: Rickshaws and local taxis are available; negotiate fares before boarding.
How to get there
- By Air: The easiest and fastest way to reach Janakpur is by air. Janakpur has its own airport which operates domestic flights from Kathmandu. The flight duration is approximately 30-45 minutes.
- By Road: You can take a bus or hire a private vehicle from Kathmandu, which is approximately 135 kilometers away. The journey by road takes around 6-7 hours.
- By Train: Janakpur is also accessible by train from India. The nearest railway station is Jaynagar Railway Station, located in the Indian state of Bihar, just across the border. From Jaynagar, you can take a short rickshaw ride or hire a taxi to reach Janakpur, which is about 20 kilometers away.
