Baraha Kshetra
In Nepali: वराहक्षेत्र · Also known as: Barahachhetra · वराहक्षेत्र
Baraha Kshetra honours Vishnu in his boar (Varaha) incarnation, who is said to have rescued the earth from the cosmic ocean. The temple stands where the Koka and Koshi rivers meet, just above the point where the Sapta Koshi leaves the gorge and spreads onto the plains.
It is mentioned in the Puranas and is one of the most important pilgrimages in eastern Nepal, with its biggest fair at Kartik Purnima. The drive to nearby Chatara and the views of the huge river leaving the mountains are dramatic.
What to see and do
Visit the main Varaha temple and the ghats at the confluence, and walk along the riverbank where the Koshi emerges from its gorge. The Kartik Purnima and Makar Sankranti fairs are colourful, with pilgrims from Nepal and India bathing in the river.
Good to know
The site is also sacred to the Kirat community. Be careful near the river, which is powerful and cold. Dharan and Itahari have the nearest good accommodation.
Quick answers
- Where is Baraha Kshetra?
- Baraha Kshetra is in Sunsari district, Koshi Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Baraha Kshetra?
- About 150 m (492 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Baraha Kshetra?
- For a 3-day trip from Biratnagar, about NPR 5,000 (≈ US$37) per person on a budget, or NPR 12,000 (≈ US$89) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 5,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Baraha Kshetra?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Biratnagar and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Baraha Kshetra?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Baraha Kshetra?
- October–March; Kartik Purnima
- How do I get to Baraha Kshetra?
- About 1 hour from Dharan or Itahari via Chatara. It is about 43 km (straight line) from Biratnagar.
- What is Baraha Kshetra called in Nepali?
- वराहक्षेत्र
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