About Mata Janaki Temple, Janakpur, Nepal
The Janaki Mandir in Janakpur, Nepal, is dedicated to Goddess Sita, also known as Janaki, and is one of the most important Hindu temples in Nepal. Janakpur is regarded in tradition as the birthplace of Sita and the capital of her father, King Janaka of Videha.
The temple draws pilgrims from India and Nepal, especially at the Vivaha Panchami festival that celebrates the marriage of Rama and Sita.
Story of Mata Janaki Temple
The present temple was built in the early twentieth century and is known for its white domes, arches and carved windows in a style that blends Mughal and Rajput influences. It is among the largest temples in Nepal.
The sanctum holds an image of Sita, and the complex has many halls, courtyards and smaller shrines. A large pond called Ganga Sagar lies nearby.
What Makes Mata Janaki Temple Sacred for Devotees
Birthplace of Sita
Janakpur is remembered in the Ramayana as the city of King Janaka. Devotees come to honour Sita as the ideal of devotion and strength.
Ram and Sita
The Ram Janaki story is told here through festivals, songs and plays, making the town a living centre of Ramayana devotion.
Annual Festivals & Rituals at Mata Janaki Temple, Janakpur, Nepal
Vivaha Panchami Celebrations at the Temple
The wedding of Rama and Sita is re-enacted in the winter month of Margashirsha with processions and plays.
Ram Navami Celebrations at the Temple
The birth of Lord Rama is celebrated with prayers and fairs.
Chhath Celebrations at the Temple
A major festival on the ponds of Janakpur.
Sacred Places to Visit Near Mata Janaki Temple
Ram Mandir : A temple of Lord Rama close to the Janaki Mandir.
Ganga Sagar and Dhanush Sagar : Sacred ponds with ghats used for ritual baths.
Dhanushadham : A site linked in tradition with the broken bow of Lord Shiva.
Common Questions About Visiting Mata Janaki Temple
Visitor Information
Darshan Timing
Address
Janaki Mandir, Janakpur Dham, Dhanusha District, Nepal
How to Reach the Temple
By Air: Janakpur Airport has domestic flights. Kathmandu has the nearest international airport.
By Rail: A railway line links Janakpur with Jaynagar in India.
By Road: Roads connect Janakpur to the East-West Highway and the Indian border.