Janaki Mandir

The temple observes two principal aartis each day. The Mangala Aarti, the dawn ceremony, begins at 05:00 and marks the ritual awakening of the deities. The Sandhya Aarti, held at 19:30, is the evening lamp ceremony accompanied by devotional singing in the Mithila tradition. Between these formal rituals, devotees may approach for darshan of the enshrined images of Sita and Rama throughout the day.

Visitors should plan their visit around these aarti timings, as they represent the most significant moments of daily worship. The temple's schedule may adjust on festival days, so confirmation with temple authorities is advisable for those timing their visit to coincide with specific observances.

Vivah Panchami and Other Festivals

Vivah Panchami, celebrated in November or December, stands as the most prominent festival at Janaki Mandir. During this observance, the divine marriage of Sita and Rama is re-enacted through a magnificent procession that draws pilgrims from both Nepal and India. The festival transforms Janakpur into a center of celebration, with the temple at the heart of the festivities. This is simultaneously the most spectacular and most crowded period to visit.

Beyond Vivah Panchami, the temple observes Ram Navami in March or April, celebrating Rama's birth through kirtan, processions, and special worship. The broader Janakpur region also observes Parikrama circumambulation and Chhath, during which the town's ponds fill with devotees engaged in these regional observances.

Planning Your Visit

The most pleasant season for visiting extends from October through March, when weather conditions are favorable for travel and temple visits. Vivah Panchami, while the most visually spectacular time, draws large crowds; those preferring a quieter darshan experience should consider visiting outside this festival period.

Modest, traditional attire is appropriate for temple visits. Footwear must be removed before entering the temple, as is customary in Hindu places of worship. The temple is located at the heart of Janakpur town in Dhanusha District, Madhesh Province, Nepal, at coordinates 26.7304, 85.9257.

Getting There

Janakpur Airport (JKR) lies approximately 5 kilometres from the temple and receives flights from Kathmandu. The town is also served by a cross-border rail link to Jaynagar in India; the railway station sits within Janakpur, with bus connections available from the Indian border. Those traveling overland can reach the temple via road from India or from Kathmandu. Once in Janakpur, the temple's central location makes it readily accessible.