Rajbiraj

City & bazaarTerai1 min read

In Nepali: राजविराज

Rajbiraj, Saptari
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Nepal's first planned town, laid out on a grid in the 1930s around a central square.

Rajbiraj was designed in the 1930s with straight, crossing streets and a central square, making it the first planned town in Nepal. It is the headquarters of Saptari and a centre of Maithili culture, with the Rajdevi temple as its main shrine.

From here you can visit the Chhinnamasta Bhagawati temple near the border, the Kanchanrup area and the eastern side of Koshi Tappu. Rajbiraj has an airstrip with occasional flights.

What to see and do

Walk the grid streets around the central Tribhuvan Chowk, visit the Rajdevi temple, and sample Maithili sweets and snacks in the bazaar. From Rajbiraj, day trips lead to the Chhinnamasta temple, the Koshi Barrage and the eastern edge of Koshi Tappu for birdwatching.

Good to know

Rajbiraj is quiet and very hot in summer. Hotels are simple. The Saptari district is a heartland of Maithili culture, with vibrant Chhath and Holi celebrations.

Quick answers

Where is Rajbiraj?
Rajbiraj is in Saptari district, Madhesh Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
What is the altitude of Rajbiraj?
About 76 m (249 ft) above sea level.
How much does it cost to visit Rajbiraj?
For a 3-day trip from Biratnagar, about NPR 5,500 (≈ US$41) per person on a budget, or NPR 14,000 (≈ US$105) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 5,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
How many days do I need for Rajbiraj?
Plan 1 night there; with travel from Biratnagar and back, about 3 days in all.
Do I need a permit or ticket for Rajbiraj?
No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
When is the best time to visit Rajbiraj?
October–March
How do I get to Rajbiraj?
South of the East–West Highway from Kanchanpur/Rupani. It is about 53 km (straight line) from Biratnagar.
What is Rajbiraj called in Nepali?
राजविराज
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