Janakpur

Janakpur Dham Nepal – Discover the Ancient Kingdom of Mithila

Janakpurdham or Janakpur (Maithili: जनकपुर), is a city located in Nepal which is the capital city of the Madhesh Province. The city was founded in the early 18th century but was designated as the location of the capital of the Videha kingdom, although there is no archaeological evidence to support this. In hindu mythology During the Treta yug period about 12 thousand years ago Janakpur used to be the capital of King Janak’s Kingdom of Mithila. Janakpur the birthplace of Janaki or Sita, the consort of Lord Ram, is an important religious pilgrimage site in the Terai plains, in south central Nepal. Janakpur’s history is deeply rooted in ancient Hindu mythology, particularly the Ramayana, one of the two great epics of India and Nepal. The city is also associated with Ramayana and is considered the place where Lord Rama and Sita were married. Janakpur Dham Nepal has more than seventy ponds, which is why it is also called the “City of Ponds.” During her engagement, Janaki or Sita chose Lord Rama to be her husband. Their wedding took place in a nearby temple called Vivaha Mandap. People from all over the world travel to this holy Hindu temple, especially in November and December for Vivah Panchami. It is the city’s annual festival that celebrates the wedding of Sita and Rama with many sacred rites and ceremonies.

During the festive season, the temple is decorated with special art and lights, and every day, bhajans are sung. We can feel both the euphoric and spiritual atmospheres around the temple. Every year, thousands of people come to this holy city to see it. The top 10 places to visit in Janakpur are listed below:

1. JANAKI TEMPLE

One of the top attractions of Janakpur, was built in 1898 AD by Queen Brisabhanu Kunwar of Tikamgargh. It reflects a fine blend of Indo-Islamic architecture. The dome of the temple is designed in the fashion of a palace in Rajasthan. The doors are ornately decorated with silver. And it is said that the statue of Sita, the presiding deity of the temple, was found in the Sarya River near Ayodhya.  It stands as a symbol of devotion to the Hindu goddess Sita, also known as Janaki, who is believed to have been born in this region. The temple is renowned for its magnificent blend of Mughal and Koiri architectural styles, marked by its high walls, intricate carvings, and beautiful marbles. Covering an area of 4,860 sq. feet, the grand structure is adorned with turrets, pavilions, and domes. 

2.RAM MANDIR 

Ram Mandir is situated in the ancient city of Janakpur, Nepal, which is renowned for its deep historical and religious significance. It is considered a sacred site in Hindu mythology, particularly because of its connection to the epic Ramayana. Janakpur is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita, making Ram Mandir an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of Lord Rama and Sita. The temple itself showcases stunning traditional architecture, with beautiful carvings and intricate designs that depict scenes from the Ramayana. The temple is surrounded by a peaceful ambiance, and pilgrims often visit to perform prayers and rituals. The Ram Mandir complex encompasses a serene environment that resonates with chants and hymns, creating an immersive spiritual experience. The site is not only a center of worship but also holds great cultural and historical value, attracting not only pilgrims but also history enthusiasts and tourists who wish to experience the tranquility and beauty of this religious landmark.

3. ROLWALING VALLEY

Nestled in the shadow of the Gaurishankar Himalayan range in Nepal, Rolwaling Valley lies adjacent to the Tibetan border, submerged between steep ice giants. Often hailed as one of Nepal’s hidden gems, this remote Himalayan valley offers trekkers an authentic experience, away from the more commercial routes. With approximately six days of trekking to enter the valley, adventurers will be awed by the stunning vistas including the Rolwaling River, magnificent waterfalls, and an array of diverse flora and fauna, contributing to its other-worldly allure. The picturesque valley is home to the Sherpa community, who preserve their rich cultural heritage and traditional agricultural practices. Tashi Lapcha Pass, at the end of the valley, provides a challenging but rewarding high mountain pass crossing for seasoned trekkers. The valley also features Beding, the largest village in the area, and the sacred Gaurishankar Conservation Area, which aims to protect the local biodiversity and cultural landmarks.

4. DOLAKHA BHIMSEN MANDIR

Dolakha Bhimsen Mandir, also known as the Dolakha Bhimsen Temple, is a revered Hindu shrine located in the ancient city of Dolakha, within the Janakpur Zone of Nepal. This temple is dedicated to Bhimsen or Bhim, a deity who is often identified with the Pandava brother Bhima from the Indian epic Mahabharata. The temple holds significant religious importance and is characterized by its unique architectural style which reflects the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. It is situated on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The deity here is worshipped as a god of trade and business by the local merchants and is believed to possess the power to grant prosperity and strength. The temple complex is frequently visited by pilgrims and tourists alike, who come to offer their prayers and witness the divine statue that is rumored to sweat, signaling impending calamities. The atmosphere around the temple is one of devotion and tranquility, making it a spiritual sanctuary for those seeking solace and blessings. The temple has also played a vital role in the social and cultural fabric of the Dolakha region.
5.RAM SITA VIVAH MANDAP

Ram Sita Vivah Mandap is a significant religious and cultural site located in Janakpur, Nepal. It is believed to be the place where Lord Ram and Goddess Sita were married, making it a site of great importance in the Hindu religion. The temple complex is adorned with intricate architecture and vivid murals that depict scenes from the Ramayana, the epic in which the story of Ram and Sita’s marriage is narrated. Pilgrims and visitors come from far and wide to witness the grandeur of the temple and to participate in the festivities, especially during the time of Vivah Panchami, the annual festival that celebrates the divine marriage. The temple is part of the larger Janaki Mandir area, which is a sprawling complex with multiple structures and is regarded as the birthplace of Goddess Sita. The atmosphere in and around the Ram Sita Vivah Mandap is charged with devotional energy, and the site is beautifully maintained with gardens and courtyards that contribute to the serene ambiance.

6. DHANUSHADHAM

Situated 18 km north-east of Janakpurdham, Dhanushadham, is believed to be the place where the broken remains of the divine Shiva bow fell after Ram broke it to obtain Sita’s hand in marriage. Dhandushadham is about an hour’s drive from Janakpur by bus. A fossilized fragment of the broken piece is still believed to be present here. Every Sunday in the month of Magh (January/ February), a Makar Mela (fair) takes place -a tradition that has not been broken since Vedic times – and tens of thousands of devotees from Nepal and India flock here to pay homage to this place.

7. GAURISHANKAR

Gaurishankar is a tranquil town located in the Janakpur zone of Nepal, revered for its natural beauty and cultural significance, especially within Hinduism. The region is named after Mount Gaurishankar, an imposing peak that stands as part of the Himalayan range, with an elevation of 7,134 meters. It is considered sacred as it is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati, according to Hindu mythology. The area exudes a peaceful atmosphere amidst lush green landscapes and offers stunning mountain views that attract trekkers, pilgrims, and nature enthusiasts from all over the world. The town itself serves as a gateway to the mountain and various trekking paths, providing a glimpse into the way of life in rural Nepal, including its unique customs, traditions, and cuisine. The Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project was established to conserve the biodiversity and cultural heritage of this region, ensuring that the natural and cultural assets are maintained for future generations. Tourists visiting Gaurishankar can expect to experience a blend of adventure, spirituality, and ecological awareness.

8. ROOT ART GALLERY

Root Art Gallery, located in the vibrant city of Janakpur, Nepal, boasts a unique blend of traditional Mithila art and contemporary creations. It serves as a cultural hub in the region, fostering a deep connectionwith the local artistic heritage. The gallery showcases an array of exquisite paintings created by local women, with themes often rooted in mythological and natural motifs. These artworks reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the Mithila region and preserve the age-old techniques passed down through generations. Visitors to Root Art Gallery can immerse themselves in a visual journey that tells stories of local folklore, religious beliefs, and social themes. The gallery not only exhibits art but also supports the artists by providing them with a platform to sustain their livelihood through their creations. Additionally, the gallery may conduct workshops or interactive sessions, providing insights into the traditional methods and motifs featured in the art pieces. It is an essential destination for art lovers and cultural explorers looking to understand and appreciate the unique artistic expressions of the Janakpur area.

9. SANKAT MOCHAN HANUMAN TEMPLE

Hanuman is worshiped in the Sankat Mochan temple. This temple was established in year 2000 by Paramhansa Shri Abadh Bihari Das, this temple is on the North West of Rangabhumi. Festivals like Vivian Panchami, Ramnawami, Jhula, Anukut, Kojagrath Purnima are celebrated in this Temple. Every Tuesday and Saturday thousand of devotees go to this temple for blessings. The Ramcharita manas poems are written in all over the wall of temple. The crowd of devotees are present heavily on Tuesday and Saturday. 

10. JANAKPUR DHAM RAIL STATION

Janakpur Dham Rail Station, located in Janakpur, Nepal, serves as one of the key railway stations in the country. It is an iconic representation of the connection between Nepal and India as it provides pivotal cross-border railway service, which solidifies trade and tourism between the two nations. The Janakpur Railway, also known as the Janakpur-Jayanagar Railway, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. It was originally established to transport timber from the forests of Janakpur to India. Today, the station has been modernized and serves as a significant transit point for pilgrims visiting the sacred city of Janakpur. The city is renowned for its temple of Goddess Sita and is a prominent religious site for Hindus, with the Janakpur Dham Rail Station being a major gateway for visitors coming to join various festivals and rituals. Architecturally, the station boasts a blend of traditional Nepali and modern structures, reflecting its importance in the region.