History & Historical Heritage
Janaki Mandir is a grand Hindu temple in Janakpur, Nepal, dedicated to Goddess Sita (Janaki, the daughter of King Janaka). Built in 1910 AD by Queen Vrisha Bhanu of Tikamgarh, India, it is a masterpiece of mixed Hindu, Rajput, and Mughal architecture. The temple is constructed entirely of bright white stone and features three stories of arches, domes, and ornate balconies. The temple complex is believed to be built on the exact birthplace of Goddess Sita and the site of her marriage (Swayamvar) to Lord Rama. The temple is also known as the 'Nau Lakha Mandir' (meaning nine lakhs) because nine hundred thousand rupees were spent on its construction.
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Sacred Legend (Sthala Puranam)
"Janakpur was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mithila ruled by King Janaka. While tilling the land for a yajna, Janaka found a baby girl in a golden casket in the furrow, naming her Sita (furrow). Later, Lord Rama broke the sacred Pinaka bow of Lord Shiva here during the swayamvar, winning Sita's hand in marriage. Vivaha Panchami celebrates this divine wedding annually."
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Comprehensive Route Guide & Logistics
Nearest Airport
Janakpur Airport (JKR) - 3 km (connecting flights to Kathmandu) or Darbhanga Airport (DBG) in India - 80 km
Local Bus Routes
Available Bus Numbers: Frequent long-distance buses operate between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Janakpur daily
Railway Junctions & Connecting Trains
- Janakpurdham Railway Station - Connected by the newly revived Nepal Railways service connecting Jaynagar in India.