Janakpur

Janakpur is the significant pilgrimage site for Hindus due to its relation with Hindu epic, Ramayana. It is the ‘city of ponds’, which is Situated in the sub metropolitan city in Dhanusa district of Nepal. Janakpur is both historical and religious sites of Nepal which is also known as Janakpurdham. It takes around 380km from Kathmandu to reach Janakpurdham. Janakpur city was the capital of the ancient Mithila Kingdom. 

Moreover, this city is about 123km south-east of Kathmandu, Janakpur is renowned for its numerous shrines and ponds which increases the religious importance of the place. However, Janakpurdham is regarded to be the dwelling place for so many arts and architectures of deities, craftsmanship, monasteries, historical towns housing, ancient temples and so on. 

Additionaly, it is the birthplace of Sita, ideal woman of all Hindus and consort of Ram, the ideal man. The huge temple of Janakpur bears a resemblance to the Mughal Palace of India which has so many broaden spaces including so many rooms, stages, sitting rooms, prayers rooms and storerooms. Moreover, the surroundings of the janaki temple leave every visitor with delightful moments. Janaki temple, Ram Mandir, Janak Mandir, Vivaha Mandap, Lazman temple and so many sacred ponds are the main attractions of janakpur. The huge crowd of visitors visit this place during the time of Ram Nawami, Vivaha Panchami and Chhat festival. Similarly, Janakpurdham is surrounded by five major rivers Dudhmati, Jalad, Rato, Balan and Kamala which increases the charm of this place. 

The major attraction of janakpur is the Ram Janaki temple which was built in 1811 AD and is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess, Sita. Locals of janakpur called it as a Naulakha Mandir as the total cost of its construction was nine lakhs. This temple has a three-storied structure which is made up of stones and marbles built in the mixed style of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Moreover, it is believed that a golden statue of goddess was found in 1657 and sita was told to live in this place. The marriage ceremony of Ram and Sita was held which is called  Vivah Mandap in the close proximity to the temple. Thousands of pilgrims visit this place in order to taste the beauty of religions and ancient history of Nepal. 

Moreover, another attraction of this place is Ram Mandir which was constructed by Amar Singh Thapa. It takes around 10-minute walk from Janaki Mandir to reach Ram Mandir. Similarly, Ram Nawami and Vivah Panchami are the two major festivals celebrated in this temple. Similarly, Gangasagar, the holy pond nearby the Ram Mandir is another fascinating beauty of Janakpur. Moreover, the water in the pond is believed to be brought from Gangasagar. The best version of this pond is that it looks magical at night time which adds the charm of this place. During the time of aarati, one can witness the entire scenario by boating on a pond which leaves the visitors spellbound with spiritual and religious vibes. 

Janakpurdham provoes women empowerment programs as there is the construction of a Women Development Centre holds its significance not only from the cultural, religious and historical point of view. This center enhances the women’s capacity to earn and sustain their life independently by providing so many skills and business training to the women. Special training of sewing, ceramics, and paintings are given to the women. That’s why, Janakpurdham is the melting pot of diverse cultures, religions, and history which is the representation of Mithila civilizations. However, the history, culture, language, literature, art and architecture adds to the charm of this historical place which compels every visitor to visit this place.