Things To Do
in Janakpur

Janakpur, located in southeastern Nepal, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is famous as the birthplace of Goddess Sita, making it an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. The city is characterized by its beautiful temples, particularly the Janaki Mandir, which showcases stunning Mithila art and architecture.

With its lively markets and warm hospitality, Janakpur offers a unique blend of spirituality and local culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Janakpur
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Janaki Mandir, an iconic temple dedicated to Sita, and explore its intricate architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Ram Mandir and take a stroll through the local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for traditional handicrafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then take a leisurely walk around the bustling streets to capture the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Maithili Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the Mithila region.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the local art studios where traditional Mithila paintings are created, and try your hand at painting.

evening
:

Attend a local cultural program or folk dance performance to experience the traditional music and dance of the region.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$2-5
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.30
🏨Budget Hotel Night$10-20
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$1-10
Coffee at a Cafe$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Warm and welcoming local people.
  • Delicious traditional cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation can be crowded.
  • Language barrier for non-Nepali speakers.
  • "नमस्ते" - Hello
  • "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
  • "कृपया" - Please
  • "म माफ गर्नुहोस्" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "तपाईंको नाम के हो?" - What is your name?

Places to Visit in Janakpur

Visit one of these nice places.

Janaki Mandir

The stunning architecture and intricate details of this temple make it a must-visit for photographers.

Mithila Art Studios

Capture the vibrant colors and creativity of local artists at work.

Local Markets

The lively atmosphere and colorful stalls provide endless opportunities for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Janakpur

Janakpur offers a delightful array of local cuisine that reflects its cultural heritage. From traditional vegetarian dishes to unique sweets, the culinary scene is rich and varied.

Janakpur Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Samosa

A popular fried snack filled with spiced potatoes and peas.

Must-Try!

Litti Chokha

A traditional dish made of whole wheat balls served with mashed eggplant and spiced potatoes.

Madhubani Thali

A colorful platter featuring various local dishes, served on a single plate.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Janakpur Market

A bustling market offering a variety of street food, snacks, and fresh produce.

Bihar Road Street Stalls

Popular for quick bites, particularly samosas and chaat.

Climate Guide

Weather

Janakpur experiences a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (April to June) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall. Autumn (October to November) is pleasant and dry, while winters (December to February) are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C (41°F) at night.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

Remove Shoes

Always remove shoes before entering homes and temples.

Respect Local Customs

Be mindful of local traditions and cultural norms, especially during festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Janakpur is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying valuables and keep your belongings secure. It's also wise to travel in groups at night and know basic emergency contact numbers.

Tipping in Janakpur

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some places accept mobile payments; ensure you have local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March-May)

Warm and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (June-August)

Hot and humid conditions with occasional rains; stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Autumn (September-November)

Cooler temperatures and clear skies are perfect for exploration and photography.

Winter (December-February)

Mild weather, but nights can be chilly; pack warm clothing for evening outings.

Nightlife Guide

Janakpur at Night

Janakpur's nightlife is relatively low-key, focusing more on cultural events and gatherings. You can find small cafes and restaurants that stay open late, offering a cozy atmosphere. Occasionally, local festivals and celebrations may involve music and dance, providing a glimpse into the regional culture during the evening hours.

Hiking in Janakpur

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Siddhartha Hiking Trail

A scenic trail located about 30 km from Janakpur, offering beautiful views and a moderate hiking experience.

Kakani Hill

Situated around 40 km from Janakpur, this hiking spot allows you to explore local flora and fauna while enjoying panoramic views.

Airports

How to reach Janakpur by plane.

Janakpur Airport (JKR)

Located about 4 km from the city center, Janakpur Airport offers limited domestic flights to Kathmandu and other nearby cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Janakpur is quite walkable, especially in the central areas where most attractions are located within walking distance. The streets can be busy, and traffic may be chaotic, but you will find plenty of pedestrian-friendly paths. Exploring on foot allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mithila Community

The local Mithila community is known for its unique art and cultural traditions.

Hindu Pilgrims

Many Hindu pilgrims visit Janakpur, especially during festivals, contributing to the city's vibrant cultural tapestry.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is very popular among locals, with matches often played in public parks.

Football

Football is also widely played and watched, especially among the youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Janakpur can be congested, particularly during peak hours. Rickshaws and motorcycles are common modes of transport, while local buses are available but can be crowded. Walking is a practical option in many areas, as attractions are typically close together.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Janakpur.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local food is vegetarian, but be sure to ask about ingredients for specific dishes.

Gluten-Free

Some dishes are naturally gluten-free; however, confirm with the restaurant to avoid cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Janakpur are basic, with several local clinics and hospitals available. However, for serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Kathmandu for better services. It's recommended to carry a basic first aid kit and have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Nepal

Read more in our Nepal 2025 Travel Guide.

Nepal Travel Guide