Discover Janakpur A Sacred Pilgrimage and Cultural Hub
Janakpur holds great significance for Hindus worldwide. It is the birthplace of Goddess Sita and where she married Lord Rama, one of the most beloved couples in Hindu mythology. Our Janakpur Cultural Tour invites you to explore this ancient city and its rich traditions.
A City Rooted in History and Spirituality
Janakpur dates back to the Rigvedic period, around the 9th to 10th century BCE. This makes it one of Nepal’s oldest and most famous cities. At the city’s center, you’ll find the impressive Janaki Mandir. Built in 1898 by Queen Brisabhanu Kunwari, it’s also called the “Nau Lakha Mandir” because it cost nine lakh rupees to construct. This temple stands as one of the largest in Nepal.
Temples, Ponds, and Rituals
Walking through Janakpur, you will come across many ancient temples tied to Hindu mythology. The Ram Janaki Temple, located in the city’s heart, draws visitors who wish to connect with the stories of the Ramayana.
The city also features over 200 sacred ponds. Pilgrims often take ritual baths in these waters. Notable ponds include Ganga Sagar, Dhanush Sagar, and Ratna Sagar. Bathing in these ponds is a key part of any pilgrimage in Janakpur.
The Vibrant Maithili Culture
Janakpur serves as the center of Maithili culture. The city is alive with traditional art, music, and festivals. Maithili art, known for its bright colors and delicate feminine forms, has earned global recognition.
You’ll hear devotional bhajans and religious discourses broadcast through loudspeakers across the city. New shrines and idols regularly appear, showing the city’s ongoing religious devotion.
Festivals and Community Life
Janakpur hosts several important festivals. The annual Parikrama draws up to 100,000 people who circumambulate the city on the full moon day of February or March. Another key celebration is Chhath in October or November, when women offer prayers to the sun god by bathing in sacred ponds.
The city’s cultural diversity extends beyond religion. Indian-style sweets are a local specialty. Near the Ram Janaki temple, Hindus and Muslims live peacefully side by side, reflecting Janakpur’s spirit of harmony.
How to Reach Janakpur
Janakpur lies about 390 km from Kathmandu, which translates to roughly a 10-hour drive. For faster access, daily flights connect the city with Kathmandu in around 40 minutes. Additionally, Janakpur hosts Nepal’s only operational railway line, which links directly to India. This makes the city a popular destination for both tourists and pilgrims.
Why Choose the Janakpur Cultural Tour?
This tour gives you a chance to experience an ancient city where myth and reality intertwine. You’ll enjoy folk songs, traditional dance, and meet locals dressed in colorful attire. Janakpur keeps its history alive and offers a unique cultural experience.
