Overview
Janakpur is a major pilgrimage city in Nepal's Eastern Terai region, revered as the birthplace of Goddess Sita and the capital of the ancient Mithila Kingdom. The city draws Hindu pilgrims from Nepal and India year-round, with surges during festivals.
Culture · Day Trips · History
Before you go
Accommodation
Janakpur has three reasonable hotels and multiple lodges ranging from budget to mid-range. Pilgrimage season brings high demand.
Culture
Janakpur is the world centre of Mithila Culture. Maithili is the local language. Mithila painting and traditional crafts are major cultural expressions.
Shopping
Mithila paintings and handcrafts are available at the Janakpur Women Development Centre. Clay pottery, wooden items, and bamboo crafts are also available.
Transport
E-rickshaws, tempo, and auto-rickshaws are the main local transport. Bargaining is expected when boarding rickshaws. City buses run on outer edges and ring road at cheap fares.