Dhanushadham
In Nepali: धनुषाधाम
.jpg?width=1280)
In the Ramayana, Ram wins Sita's hand by lifting and breaking the great bow of Shiva. Tradition holds that one piece fell at Dhanusha, north of Janakpur, where a fossilised fragment is worshipped in a small temple in the forest.
Dhanushadham is one of the stops on the Parikrama, the circuit pilgrimage around Janakpur's sacred sites in spring, when thousands walk from village to village. The district takes its name from the site.
What to see and do
Visit the forest temple housing the stone believed to be part of Shiva's bow, surrounded by old trees and small shrines. The drive from Janakpur passes Maithili villages with mud houses, painted walls and mango orchards. The Parikrama pilgrimage in spring passes through, with devotees walking and singing between sacred sites.
Good to know
Facilities are basic; bring water. Combine the trip with other Janakpur-area sites on the same day.
Quick answers
- Where is Dhanushadham?
- Dhanushadham is in Dhanusha district, Madhesh Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Dhanushadham?
- About 90 m (295 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Dhanushadham?
- Dhanushadham is in or right next to Janakpur, so it is an easy day visit. Budget for a taxi there and back (about NPR 600–1,500, US$5–11) and meals (NPR 1,000–2,500, US$8–19 per person). If you stay in Janakpur, rooms cost about NPR 1,500 / US$11–NPR 4,500 / US$33 a night.
- How many days do I need for Dhanushadham?
- Half a day to a full day is enough; it is a short ride from central Janakpur.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Dhanushadham?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Dhanushadham?
- October–March; Parikrama in Falgun
- How do I get to Dhanushadham?
- About 45 minutes by road north of Janakpur. It is about 19 km (straight line) from Janakpur.
- What is Dhanushadham called in Nepali?
- धनुषाधाम
Photo gallery
1 / 9.jpg?width=960)
