Janaki Mandir

Janaki Mandir is a grand temple built at the birthplace of Mother Sita (Janaki). It is located in Janakpurdham in Dhanusha district of Madhesh Province. This temple is considered one of the largest and most artistic temples in Nepal.

History and 'Naulakha Mandir'

The history of Janaki Mandir has been connected with the glory of Janakpurdham since the Ramayana period:

• Construction: The current grand temple was commissioned by Princess Brishabhanu Kunwari of Tikamgarh, India. Its construction work started in 1894 AD and was completed in 1911 AD.
• Reason for the name Naulakha: Since 9 lakh silver coins (rupees) were spent on the construction of this temple at that time, it began to be called 'Naulakha Mandir' locally.
• Religious Background: According to mythological belief, this temple is built in the same place where Mother Sita was found while King Janak was plowing the field. It is believed that the foundation for the establishment of the temple was laid after the ascetic Shurkishordas found a golden idol of Sita here in 1657 AD.

Architecture

The architecture of Janaki Mandir is a unique blend of Hindu-Rajput and Mughal styles. Its features are as follows:

• Structure: It is a bright white colored three-story structure made entirely of stone and marble. It has a total of 60 rooms.
• Artistic work: Beautiful pictures of Mithila Art (Madhubani painting) are carved on the walls of the temple. It has attractive turrets, large domes, and latticed windows, which have given it the appearance of a grand palace rather than a temple.
• Area: This temple is spread over an area of about 4,860 square feet and its height is 50 feet.

Travel Guide: How to Reach

Janakpur is a major hub in the Terai region and is well-connected by multiple modes of transport:

• By Air: Daily flights operate from Kathmandu to Janakpur Airport (25–30 mins). The temple is about 3 km from the airport; rickshaws and taxis are easily available.
• By Road:
  • From Kathmandu: Regular deluxe and local buses depart from Kathmandu, taking 7–9 hours via the scenic BP Highway.
  • From India: Janakpur is close to the Indian border town of Jaynagar (approx. 30 km).
• By Rail: Janakpur houses the only operational railway in Nepal. A broad-gauge line connects Jaynagar (India) to Janakpurdham, making it a popular route for pilgrims.

Best Time to Visit

• Ideal Season: October to March is the best time, as the weather is pleasant and cool.
• Avoid: April to June (extremely hot, often exceeding 40°C) and the monsoon season (July to September).
• Festivals:
  • Vivah Panchami (Nov/Dec): The grandest festival celebrating the wedding of Ram and Sita.
  • Ram Navami (March/April): Celebrates the birth of Lord Ram.
  • Chhath Puja (Oct/Nov): A major festival where devotees gather at sacred ponds like Ganga Sagar.

Visitor Information & Tips

• Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended as it is a highly sacred site. Remove shoes before entering the temple complex.
• Mithila Culture: Explore the local markets for traditional Mithila Art (Madhubani paintings) and try local Mithila delicacies like Thekua and sweets.
• Ponds: Visit the nearby sacred ponds, Ganga Sagar and Dhanush Sagar, which are integral to the city's religious life.