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Places to Visit in Janakpur: Complete Travel Guide 2026

2025-12-04

Janakpur, the ancient capital of Mithila, stands as one of Nepal's most sacred pilgrimage destinations. Known as the birthplace of Sita and the site where Lord Ram and Sita were married, this city in the Dhanusha district draws thousands of devotees and travelers each year. With the renewed global interest in Ramayana tourism, especially following the inauguration of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, Janakpur has emerged as a must-visit destination in 2026.

Whether you're a pilgrim seeking spiritual connection, a culture enthusiast exploring Mithila traditions, or a traveler discovering Nepal's Terai region, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about places to visit in Janakpur.

What You'll Find in This Guide:

  • Complete list of Janakpur tourist places with detailed insights

  • Best time to visit and festival calendar

  • Practical itineraries for 1-day and 2-day trips

  • How to reach Janakpur from Kathmandu and India

  • Where to stay near Janaki Mandir

  • Cultural experiences and local travel tips

Top 10 Places to Visit in Janakpur (Quick Overview)

Here are the best places to visit in Janakpur that should be on every traveler's list:

Rank

Place

Why Visit

 

Best For

Location

1

Janaki Mandir

Nepal's most magnificent Hindu temple, dedicated to the Goddess Sita

Everyone, from pilgrims, photographers, to culture lovers

Central Janakpur

2

Ram Sita Vivah Mandap

The sacred wedding pavilion where Ram and Sita were married

Spiritual seekers, mythology enthusiasts

200m from Janaki Mandir

3

Dhanush Sagar

Pond with holy origins and evening aarti ceremonies

Evening rituals, photography

5-minute walk from the temple

4

Ganga Sagar

Peaceful pond perfect for sunset views

Relaxation, street food exploration

Near Janaki Mandir

5

Mithila Art Center

Experience traditional Madhubani painting workshops

Art lovers, cultural travelers

Janakpur market area

6

Raj Devi Temple

Ancient temple with local spiritual significance

Devotees seeking quieter spaces

Main city area

7

Ram Mandir

Important local worship center

Daily prayer participants

Near Bus Park

8

Janakpur Railway Station

Heritage architecture from the British era

Photography, families

3-4 km from the center

9

Dhanushadham

The site where Lord Shiva's bow broke

Day-trip pilgrims

18-20 km from Janakpur

10

Local Mithila Markets

Traditional handicrafts, Mithila paintings, and local cuisine

Shopping, food exploration

Central area

What Makes Janakpur Unique?

The Heart of Mithila Culture

Janakpur, also known as Janakpurdham, is more than just another religious destination. It represents the living heritage of Mithila culture, which spans across Nepal's southern Terai and the Indian state of Bihar. The city's identity is deeply intertwined with the Ramayana. It is also where King Janak ruled his kingdom, Mother Sita was born, and one of Hinduism's most celebrated marriages took place.

Why Janakpur Tourism Is Growing in 2025-2026:

The city has seen a remarkable surge in visitors following the 2024 Ram Mandir inauguration in Ayodhya. Travelers are now exploring the complete "Ramayana Circuit," which connects Ayodhya (Ram's birthplace), Janakpur (Sita's birthplace), and other mythological sites. This cross-border pilgrimage has firmly placed Janakpur on the international tourism map.

Cultural Distinctiveness:

What sets Janakpur apart is its preservation of Maithili traditions. The local language, Maithili, differs from other Nepali language and connects the region to its ancient roots. You'll encounter this cultural richness in:

  • Intricate Mithila paintings (Madhubani art) adorning homes and shops

  • Traditional architecture with backyards and painted walls

  • Local festivals are celebrated with unique Maithili rituals

  • Distinctive cuisine blending Nepali and Bihari flavors

The Festival City:

Janakpur's festival calendar draws massive crowds. Vivah Panchami, which celebrates Lord Ram and Sita's wedding, transforms the city into a spiritual carnival every November and December. Other significant festivals include Ram Navami, Chhath Puja, and Holi, each offering travelers a different cultural perspective.

Places to Visit in Janakpur: Detailed Guide

Category 1: Temples & Sacred Sites

1. Janaki Mandir - The Crown Jewel of Janakpur

Janaki Mandir stands as Nepal's most stunning example of Mughal-inspired architecture. Built in 1910 by Queen Vrisha Bhanu of Tikamgarh, this three-story marble temple dominates Janakpur's skyline with its pristine white domes and intricate carvings.

What Makes It Special:

  • 60 rooms spread across three floors, each dedicated to a different deity

  • Main sanctum houses idols of Sita (Janaki) and Ram

  • Exquisite marble work imported from Rajasthan

  • Evening aarti ceremonies that attract hundreds of devotees

  • Architectural blend of Mughal and Koiri styles

Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5:00-7:00 AM) for peaceful darshan, or evening (6:00-7:30 PM) for the grand aarti ceremony. During Vivah Panchami, the temple remains crowded throughout the day.

Visiting Tips:

  • Remove shoes before entering (shoe-keeping counters are available at the entry points).

  • Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees).

  • Photography is allowed in the outer areas, but restricted inside the sanctum.

  • Free entry, but donations are always welcome and encouraged.

How to Reach: Located in the heart of Janakpur, accessible by rickshaw, tempo, or walking from most accommodations in the city center.

Nearby Attractions: Ram Sita Vivah Mandap (200m walk), Dhanush Sagar (5-minute walk), local markets (immediate vicinity)

2. Ram Sita Vivah Mandap - Where the Divine Marriage Took Place

Just a short walk from Janaki Mandir, the Ram Sita Vivah Mandap marks the exact spot where King Janak arranged the swayamvar and Lord Ram won Sita's hand by breaking the powerful bow of Lord Shiva.

Mythological Significance:

According to the Ramayana, King Janak declared that whoever could string Shiva's mighty bow would marry his daughter Sita. Numerous kings and princes failed, but Lord Ram not only strung the bow, but even broke it. This sacred site commemorates that momentous event.

What to Experience:

  • Open-air pavilion with a sanctified central platform

  • Daily rituals and prayers are conducted by the local priests

  • Special ceremonies during the Vivah Panchami celebration recreate the wedding

  • Peaceful atmosphere, perfect for meditation

Best Time to Visit: Morning hours (6:00-9:00 AM) or during evening prayers. The site comes alive during Vivah Panchami with elaborate wedding reenactments.

Travel Tip: Visit this site immediately after Janaki Mandir to complete the spiritual circuit. Local guides (available near Janaki Mandir) can explain the detailed mythology.

[→ Read Full Article about Vivah Panchami]

3. Raj Devi Temple - Local Spiritual Center

While tourists flock to Janaki Mandir, locals often prefer the quieter Raj Devi Temple for their daily prayers. This temple offers an authentic glimpse into the everyday spiritual life of Janakpur.

What to Know:

  • Dedicated to Goddess Durga

  • Less crowded, more intimate atmosphere

  • Beautiful traditional Nepali temple architecture

  • Local festivals are celebrated with community participation

Best For: Travelers seeking peaceful prayer time away from crowds, those interested in observing local religious practices.

4. Ram Mandir - Community Worship Hub

Located near the bus park, Ram Mandir serves as an important local temple. Though smaller than Janaki Mandir, it holds significant value for daily worshippers and offers a different architectural style.

Visiting Note: Best combined with a trip to the railway station or when exploring the market areas.

5. Dhanushadham - Day Trip Pilgrimage Site

Located approximately 18-20 kilometers from Janakpur, Dhanushadham (also called Dhanusha Dham) is believed to be where Lord Ram broke Shiva's bow during Sita's swayamvar.

Why Visit:

  • Important mythological site in the Ramayana circuit

  • A temple complex with shrines to Shiva and Ram

  • Peaceful rural setting away from city crowds

  • Annual fairs during major Hindu festivals

How to Reach: Hire a private vehicle or take a local bus from Janakpur bus park (approximately 45 minutes). Best visited as a half-day excursion.

Travel Tip: Combine with a visit to nearby rural villages to experience authentic Mithila countryside life.

Category 2: Ponds & Scenic Spots

6. Dhanush Sagar - Sacred Waters & Evening Aarti

Dhanush Sagar, one of Janakpur's many sacred ponds, holds special significance as the site where pieces of Shiva's broken bow are believed to have fallen. The pond comes alive during evening aarti ceremonies.

What to Experience:

  • Traditional evening aarti with oil lamps floating on water

  • Local devotees performing ritual baths

  • Surrounding ghats are perfect for photography

  • Peaceful atmosphere for meditation

  • Small tea shops and street food vendors are nearby

Best Time to Visit: Evening between 5:30-7:00 PM for the aarti ceremony. Morning visits (6:00-8:00 AM) offer serene views with fewer crowds.

Photography Tips:

  • Golden hour (just before sunset) provides the best lighting

  • Evening aarti creates beautiful reflection shots

  • Respectfully photograph rituals from designated areas

Getting There: 5-minute walk from Janaki Mandir. Follow signs or ask locals for "Dhanush Sagar."

7. Ganga Sagar - Sunset Views & Local Life

Ganga Sagar offers a more relaxed pond experience compared to Dhanush Sagar. This is where locals come to unwind, and the surrounding area features small local shops.

What Makes It Special:

  • Beautiful sunset views across the water

  • Less ritualistic, more social atmosphere

  • Great spot to observe local daily life

  • Street food vendors selling local snacks

  • Clean ghats suitable for sitting and relaxing

Best For: Evening relaxation after temple visits, experiencing local culture, and casual photography.

Nearby: Close to Janaki Mandir complex, easily walkable from central areas.

8. Other Sacred Ponds

Janakpur features over 100 sacred ponds (sagar/kund), though many are smaller. Notable ones include:

  • Argaja Sarovar - Another mythologically significant pond

  • Various temple ponds - Scattered throughout the city

These water bodies are integral to understanding Janakpur's nickname as the "City of Ponds."

Category 3: Cultural Attractions

9. Mithila Art Center & Painting Workshops

Janakpur is the heart of Mithila painting (also called Madhubani art), a traditional art form featuring intricate geometric patterns, mythological scenes, and nature motifs. The Mithila Art Center offers visitors a chance to witness and participate in this ancient craft.

What to Experience:

  • Watch local artists create traditional Mithila paintings

  • Participate in hands-on painting workshops

  • Purchase authentic artwork directly from artists

  • Learn about the symbolism and techniques used

  • Photography of the artistic process (with permission)

Why It Matters: Mithila art is traditionally created by women and passed down through generations. Supporting this center helps preserve this UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage.

Workshop Details:

  • Duration: 1-3 hours, depending on complexity

  • Cost: Varies by workshop (typically NPR 500-2000)

  • Booking is recommended for groups

  • All materials provided

Best For: Culture enthusiasts, families with children, travelers seeking unique experiences beyond temples.

Getting There: Located in the market area, ask locals for "Mithila Art Center" or look for signs near Janaki Mandir.

10. Local Mithila Markets - Shopping & Authentic Cuisine

Janakpur's bustling markets offer an authentic slice of Mithila culture. Here you'll find everything from religious items to handicrafts to delicious street food.

What to Buy:

  • Mithila paintings on paper, cloth, or ceramics

  • Traditional Maithili textiles and clothing

  • Handicrafts, including bamboo work and pottery

  • Religious items - idols, prayer beads, incense

Where to Eat: The markets feature numerous street food vendors and small restaurants serving:

  • Dal-bhat - Traditional Nepali meal

  • Chura-dahi - Beaten rice with yogurt

  • Maithili preparations - including fish dishes unique to the region

  • Sweet shops - Don't miss the local pedha

Shopping Tips:

  • Bargaining is expected and part of the culture

  • Best prices found in inner market areas away from the main temple

  • Morning hours (8:00-11:00 AM) are less crowded

  • Many shops close during afternoon hours (2:00-4:00 PM)

Market Areas:

  • Main Market (near Janaki Mandir) - religious items, souvenirs

  • Station Road Market - handicrafts, textiles

  • Local bazaars - fresh food, daily goods

11. Janakpur Railway Station - Heritage Architecture

Built during the British era, Janakpur Railway Station is more than just a transport hub. It's also an architectural landmark. The station connects Janakpur to Jaynagar in India and represents a slice of colonial-era heritage.

Why Visit:

  • Beautiful British colonial architecture

  • Nepal’s only railway station

  • Historic railway connection to India

  • Perfect photo opportunity

  • Interesting to observe the unique narrow-gauge train

  • Pleasant gardens surrounding the station

Photography Note: The colorful trains against the heritage building create excellent photo compositions, especially during morning light.

Best Combined With: A visit to nearby Ram Mandir or as part of exploring the broader city beyond the temple area.

Getting There: Located 3-4 km from Janaki Mandir. Take a rickshaw or tempo (approximately 10-15 minutes).

Category 4: Best Places to Visit Near Janakpur

While Janakpur itself offers plenty to explore, several nearby destinations make excellent day trips or extensions to your itinerary.

Jaleshwar (60 km)

A small town in the Mahottari district known for its temples and local markets. The journey passes through the beautiful Terai countryside.

Best For: Travelers with extra time interested in off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Dhanushadham (18-20 km)

As mentioned earlier, this important pilgrimage site deserves a dedicated half-day visit for anyone following the complete Ramayana circuit.

Sitamarhi, Bihar, India (Cross-Border Tourism)

Located just across the Nepal-India border, Sitamarhi is believed by some to be Sita's actual birthplace. The Punaura Dham temple here attracts pilgrims from both countries.

Border Crossing Note: Indian and Nepali citizens can cross relatively easily. Other nationals should check visa requirements. The border crossing at Jaleshwar is the most convenient.

Day Trip Possibility: Yes, but allow a full day for border formalities and travel time.

1-Day and 2-Day Janakpur Itinerary

Tentative One-Day Janakpur Itinerary

Morning (6:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

  • 6:00 AM: Start with early morning darshan at Janaki Mandir (avoid crowds)

  • 7:30 AM: Visit Ram Sita Vivah Mandap for peaceful prayers

  • 8:30 AM: Breakfast at a local restaurant (chura-dahi or dal-bhat)

  • 9:30 AM: Explore Mithila Art Center, perhaps join a short workshop

  • 11:00 AM: Walk through local markets, shop for Mithila paintings

Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant

  • 1:00 PM: Rest at your hotel (Janakpur gets hot midday)

  • 3:00 PM: Visit Dhanush Sagar, explore the surrounding area

  • 4:00 PM: Relax at Ganga Sagar, enjoy sunset views

Evening (5:00 PM - 8:00 PM)

  • 5:30 PM: Attend evening aarti at Dhanush Sagar

  • 6:30 PM: Return to Janaki Mandir for a grand evening aarti

  • 7:30 PM: Dinner and explore evening markets

  • 8:00 PM: End your day

This Itinerary Covers: All major places to visit in Janakpur, cultural experiences, and spiritual highlights.

Comprehensive Two-Day Janakpur Itinerary

Day 1: Temple Circuit & Culture

  • Morning: Janaki Mandir, Ram Sita Vivah Mandap, local breakfast

  • Mid-morning: Mithila Art Center with extended workshop

  • Afternoon: Market exploration and lunch, rest period

  • Late afternoon: Raj Devi Temple, Ram Mandir

  • Evening: Dhanush Sagar aarti, dinner in the market area

Day 2: Exploration & Excursion

  • Early morning: Sunrise at Ganga Sagar

  • Morning: Day trip to Dhanushadham (half-day excursion)

  • Return for lunch

  • Afternoon: Visit Janakpur Railway Station, explore quieter neighborhoods

  • Late afternoon: Final shopping, relaxation

  • Evening: Farewell aarti at Janaki Mandir

This Extended Itinerary Adds: Day-trip experiences, deeper cultural immersion, photography opportunities, and a more relaxed pace.

Best Time to Visit Janakpur

Climate & Seasons

Winter (November - February) 

  • Temperature: 10°C - 25°C

  • Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing

  • Peak tourist season, especially during Vivah Panchami

  • Pack: Light woolens for morning/evening

Spring (March - May)

  • Temperature: 20°C - 38°C

  • It can get quite hot, especially from April to May

  • Holi festival falls during this season (March)

  • Pack: Light cotton clothes, sun protection

Monsoon (June - September)

  • Temperature: 25°C - 35°C

  • Heavy rainfall, humidity, and potential flooding

  • Fewer tourists, but transportation can be difficult

  • Not recommended unless you have specific reasons

Autumn (October - November)

  • Temperature: 15°C - 28°C

  • Clear skies, perfect weather

  • Post-monsoon freshness

  • Dashain and Tihar Celebrations

  • Vivah Panchami preparation begins

Festival Calendar

Vivah Panchami (November/December): Celebrates the marriage of Ram and Sita. The city transforms into a massive spiritual carnival with:

  • Elaborate wedding reenactments at Vivah Mandap

  • Processions throughout the city

  • Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims

  • Special night-long prayers and celebrations

  • Book accommodations 2-3 months in advance

Ram Navami (March/April) celebrates Lord Ram's birth with special prayers at all temples.

Chhath Puja (October/November) is an important Terai festival with sun worship rituals at all ponds.

Holi (March) is celebrated with traditional Maithili enthusiasm throughout the city.

Janaki Navami (April/May) celebrates Goddess Sita's birth, with special ceremonies at Janaki Mandir.

Special Section: Visiting Janakpur During Vivah Panchami

Vivah Panchami is when Janakpur truly comes alive. If you're planning to visit during this mega-festival (typically falling in late November or early December), here's what you need to know.

What Happens During Vivah Panchami

The festival recreates the divine marriage of Ram and Sita over several days, with the main ceremony on Panchami (fifth day of the lunar cycle).

Key Events:

  • Swayamvar Reenactment: Actors recreate Ram breaking Shiva's bow

  • Wedding Procession: Elaborate baraat (wedding procession) from Ram Mandir to Vivah Mandap

  • Wedding Ceremony: Full traditional Hindu wedding rituals are performed

  • Mass Weddings: Many couples choose to marry during this auspicious time

  • Cultural Programs: Dance, music, and theatrical performances throughout the city

  • Night Celebrations: Temples remain open all night with continuous prayers

Crowd Management Tips

Vivah Panchami attracts 300,000-500,000 visitors. Here's how you can manage:

Best Viewing Spots:

  • Reserve spots near Vivah Mandap early morning (before 6 AM)

  • Upper floor views from buildings near Janaki Mandir (ask shopkeepers)

  • Procession route along Station Road offers good viewing

  • Arrive 2-3 hours before major events

Avoiding Overcrowding:

  • Visit temples very early morning (4:00-6:00 AM) or late at night (after 10:00 PM)

  • Explore secondary temples and ponds during peak hours at main sites

  • Use less-traveled routes between locations

  • Keep expectations flexible, as delays are common

Where to Stay During Vivah Panchami

Booking Timeline:

  • Book 2-3 months in advance for the best options

  • Prices increase 2-3x during the festival

  • Hotels within 1 km of Janaki Mandir fill up first

  • Consider staying slightly outside the city center for better availability

Accommodation Strategy: Hotels near Janaki Mandir offer the best access but are most expensive and crowded. For a balance of convenience and comfort, look for hotels offering:

  • Walking distance (under 1 km) from main temples

  • Backup power (frequent power cuts during peak times)

  • Water supply reliability

  • Booking confirmation in advanced

How to Reach Janakpur

By Air

Janakpur Airport (JKR)

  • Direct flights from Kathmandu (multiple daily flights)

  • Flight duration: 35-40 minutes

  • Airlines: Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, Shree Airlines

  • Airport to city center: 5-6 km (15-minute drive)

Booking Tips:

  • Book flights 2-3 weeks in advance

  • Morning flights tend to be more reliable

  • During Vivah Panchami, book 2+ months ahead

  • The airport has basic facilities only

By Road from Kathmandu

Bus Options:

Tourist Buses (Recommended)

  • Duration: 8-10 hours

  • Departure: 6:00-7:00 AM from Kathmandu

  • Cost: NPR 800-1,500

  • More comfortable seats, fewer stops

  • Book through travel agencies or hotels

Local Buses

  • Duration: 10-12 hours

  • More frequent departures

  • Cost: NPR 500-800

  • Basic facilities, many stops

Private Vehicle/Taxi

  • Duration: 7-8 hours

  • Most comfortable and flexible option

  • Cost: NPR 12,000-18,000

  • Can stop at points of interest (depending on the passengers or driver)

  • Best for families or groups

Route: Kathmandu → BP Highway → Sindhuli → Bardibas → Janakpur

From India

By Rail:

The historic Janakpur-Jaynagar Railway connects Janakpur to Bihar, India. However, services can be irregular. Check current schedules at the railway station or online.

Cross-Border Travel:

  • Main border crossing: Jaleshwar-Sitamarhi

  • Buses are available from Patna, Muzaffarpur, and other Bihar cities

  • Allow extra time for border formalities

  • Both Indian and Nepali citizens have a relatively easy time crossing

From Delhi:

  • Fly to Kathmandu, then onward to Janakpur

  • Or bus to the Bihar border, cross to Nepal, then local bus to Janakpur

Getting Around Janakpur

Rickshaws: Most popular for short distances within the city. Negotiate fare before starting (typically NPR 50-150 for most trips).

Tempos: Shared three-wheelers on fixed routes. Very economical (NPR 10-30 per ride).

Taxis: Available through hotels or phone booking. Useful for longer trips or groups.

Walking: Central Janakpur is walkable. Main temples and attractions are within 2 km of each other.

Bicycle Rentals: Some hotels offer bicycles, which is a pleasant way to explore at your own pace.

Where to Stay in Janakpur: Areas, Safety, and Tips

Best Areas to Stay

Near Janaki Mandir (Most Convenient)

  • Walking distance to all major temples

  • Access to markets and restaurants

  • It can get crowded and noisy during festivals

  • Higher price range

  • Best for: First-time visitors, pilgrims with limited time

Station Road Area (Balanced Option)

  • 1-2 km from Janaki Mandir

  • Quieter than the temple area

  • Good range of hotels and restaurants

  • Easier transportation access

  • Best for: Families, travelers seeking comfort with convenience

Near Hospital/Bhanu Chowk (Budget-Friendly)

  • 2-3 km from main temples

  • Local neighborhood atmosphere

  • More budget accommodation options

  • Requires a rickshaw/tempo to reach temples

  • Best for: Budget travelers, longer stays

Safety Considerations

Janakpur is generally very safe for travelers, but standard precautions apply:

General Safety:

  • The city is conservative; dress modestly, especially near temples

  • Petty theft can occur in crowded areas. So, keep your valuables secure

  • Use registered taxis/rickshaws, especially at night

  • Women travelers can feel safe, but avoid isolated areas after dark

Health & Hygiene:

  • Drink bottled water only

  • Eat at busy, popular restaurants

  • Carry hand sanitizer

  • The Terai region has mosquitoes, so always carry a repellent

During Festivals:

  • Crowds can be intense, so watch your belongings

  • Stay hydrated in crowds

  • Keep your phone charged and share your location with family/friends

  • Have the hotel contact saved offline (phone number mainly)

What to Expect from Janakpur Hotels

Room Categories:

Janakpur hotels typically offer:

  • Standard/Regular Rooms: Basic amenities, fan or AC, attached bathroom

  • Deluxe Rooms: Better furnishings, reliable AC, TV, hot water

  • Super Deluxe: Spacious, modern amenities, quality bedding, work desk

Facilities to Confirm:

  • Power backup: Essential during peak seasons

  • Hot water availability: Morning and evening vs 24-hour

  • WiFi: Often available but can be slow

  • Parking: Important if arriving by vehicle

Price Ranges (Normal Season):

  • Budget: NPR 800-1,500

  • Mid-range: NPR 1,500-3,500

  • Comfortable: NPR 3,500-6,000

  • Premium: NPR 6,000+

Finding the Right Stay

When choosing accommodation in Janakpur, consider:

Location Priorities:

  • How much walking are you comfortable with

  • Need for quiet vs. central access

  • Transportation availability

Amenities That Matter:

  • Reliable hot water (essential in winter)

  • Generator backup (power cuts happen)

  • Clean, comfortable beds

  • In-house restaurant (convenient for early mornings)

For Families:

  • Hotels offering connecting rooms or larger spaces

  • Quieter locations away from market noise

  • Reliable facilities and service

For Festival Visits:

  • Confirmed advance booking with written confirmation

  • Flexible cancellation policy

  • Location not too deep in congested areas (for easier movement)

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

What to Wear

Temple Visits:

  • Covered shoulders and knees (mandatory)

  • Remove shoes before entering temples

  • Avoid leather items in temple premises

  • Light, breathable cotton fabrics work best

General:

  • Modest clothing is respectful and expected

  • Comfortable walking shoes are essential

  • Sun hat and sunglasses during the day

  • Light jacket for winter evenings

Local Etiquette

Religious Respect:

  • Don't touch religious idols or offerings

  • Photography restrictions vary, so always ask first

  • Move clockwise around temples and sacred sites

  • Sit properly near sacred areas (not with feet pointing toward deities or wearing shoes inside the sacred premises)

Cultural Courtesy:

  • Namaste is the common greeting

  • Remove shoes before entering homes or temples

  • Accept offerings with the right hand or both hands

  • Ask permission before photographing people

Language:

  • Hindi is widely understood

  • Many people speak English in hotels and tourist areas

  • Learning basic Nepali phrases is appreciated

  • Maithili is the local language, but not necessary for travelers

Diet & Hygiene

Food Safety:

  • Stick to busy, popular restaurants

  • Avoid raw vegetables unless at reputable hotels

  • Bottled water only (widely available)

  • Street food from busy vendors is generally safe

Vegetarian Options: Most restaurants offer extensive vegetarian menus. Janakpur has excellent:

  • Traditional dal-bhat

  • North Indian vegetarian dishes

  • Local Maithili vegetarian preparations

  • Sweets and snacks

For Non-Vegetarians: Limited options compared to other Nepali cities due to the religious nature of the city. Some restaurants serve chicken and fish.

Money & Payments

Cash vs. Card:

  • Cash is the main source of payment in Janakpur

  • ATMs are available, but they can run out during festivals

  • Few restaurants accept cards

  • Carry sufficient cash, especially during festivals

  • Mobile bank payments and digital wallets are available in major city areas 

Currency:

  • Nepali Rupee (NPR)

  • The Indian Rupee is widely accepted (but with less favorable rates)

  • Exchange money in Kathmandu for better rates

Essential Items to Pack

  • Sunscreen and hat (strong sun year-round)

  • Water bottle (stay hydrated)

  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

  • Basic medications (stomach issues, headache)

  • Mosquito repellent (especially near ponds)

  • Power bank (for phone charging during long days)

  • Modest clothing for temple visits

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Small bag for day trips

  • Photocopies of passport/ID (keep separate from originals)

Communication

Mobile Network:

  • Good coverage in the city center

  • Purchase a local SIM (Ncell or Nepal Telecom) for data

  • Hotel WiFi is available, but often slow

Emergency Contacts:

  • Nepal Police: 100

  • Tourist Police: Available near major attractions

  • Hospital/Ambulance: 102

  • Your hotel contact (save offline)

Photography Guidelines

Where You Can Photograph:

  • Outer areas of temples

  • Street scenes and markets

  • Ponds and landscapes

  • Architecture

Where to Be Cautious:

  • Inner sanctums (usually prohibited)

  • During specific rituals (ask first)

  • Women in traditional dress (ask permission)

  • Cremation areas (strictly avoid)

Best Photo Opportunities:

  • Janaki Mandir exterior (morning light)

  • Evening aarti at ponds

  • Mithila art workshops

  • Street life in markets

  • Railway station architecture