Arjun Dhara

Located in Arjun Dhara Municipality of Jhapa district, Arjun Dhara Temple is also known as the 'Pashupati of the East'. It has been given this name because its religious significance and architecture are similar to Pashupatinath.

Mythological Background

The history of Arjun Dhara is connected to the Mahabharata period:

• Exile of Pandavas and Theft of Cows: The five Pandavas and Draupadi were hiding in the kingdom of King Virat during their exile (Agyatvas). At that time, the Kauravas stole nine lakh cows of King Virat.
• Parjanya Astra and Origin of Water: Arjun fought with the Kauravas and brought back the cows. While returning, the cows were very thirsty when they reached this place. After not finding water anywhere, Arjun struck the ground with his 'Parjanya Astra' (arrow), from which a stream of water emerged. Because the cows drank water from that stream, the name of this place became 'Arjun Dhara'.

Physical Structure and Religious Beliefs

• Sacred Water and Skin Disease Cure: There is a large pond in the middle of the temple complex, on the south side of which there are 5 spouts made of five metals (Panchadhatu). Cold water flows from here constantly. According to popular belief, bathing in the water here cures skin diseases and washes away sins.
• Main Attraction: In the middle of the pond, there is a beautiful statue of Arjun bringing out water by hitting an arrow and cows drinking water.
• Veda Vidyapeeth: A Veda Vidyapeeth is in operation here for traditional Gurukul and Sanskrit education, which is protecting Vedic education.

Festivals and Fairs

A special fair is held here during Mahashivaratri, Balachaturdashi, and the entire month of Shrawan. There is a large presence of Bol Bam pilgrims on Mondays of Shrawan. Due to the religious and cultural importance of the temple, a postal stamp featuring Arjun Dhara was also issued in 2055 BS.

Travel Guide: How to Reach

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bhadrapur Airport (Chandragadhi), approximately 27 km away. Regular flights connect Bhadrapur to Kathmandu. From the airport, it is about a 30-40 minute drive.
• By Road: The temple is located about 5–6 km north of Birtamode, a major hub on the East-West Highway.
• Local Transport: Local buses, taxis, and electric rickshaws are frequently available from Birtamode to Arjundhara Dham.

Best Time to Visit

• Seasons: The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is pleasantly cool.
• Festivals: The temple is most vibrant during Maha Shivaratri, Bala Chaturdashi, and every Monday during the holy month of Shrawan (Bol Bam).

Visitor Information & Tips

• Timings: The temple is generally open for devotees from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
• Accessibility: The temple complex is mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it accessible for elderly visitors and those with minor mobility issues.
• Local Tips: Don't miss the chance to visit the Gurukul (Vedic school) and the Goshala (cow farm) located within the complex. Many visitors take a ritual bath in the water from the sacred spouts.