Dhanusha Mandir in Dhanushadham is a historical temple constructed in 1939 A.D. Dhanushadham falls on the resting place of Parikrama route that has special significance to Hindus. It is situated 18 kilometers north-east of Janakpurdham and only 10 kilometers from Dharapani on East-West Highway.
Janaki Mandir is another famous place to visit in Dhanushadham. Janaki Mandir also known as Naulakha Mandir is dedicated to Sita who is also known by the name Janaki. A rare blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, the temple is the first and only example of its kind in Nepal. The temple has a beautiful garden and an adorned Vivah Mandap i.e. wedding courtyard dedicated to Ram and Sita. The temple is in Janakpur city, the headquarters of Dhanusha district.
Parashuram Kunda, previously known as Janak Sarobar holds historical as well as cultural significance. It is believed to be the pond where Rishi Parasuram bathed to quell his anger after his confrontation with Ram over breaking of the sacred bow. The lake is also picturesque, with lotus flowers growing on it and lush trees on its southern banks. The lake in Mithileshowar Nikas VDC is 4 kilometers west from Dhanushadham. It falls on the way to Dhanushadham from Janakpurdham.
There are several other pilgrimage sites in and around Dhanushadham area. Among the many, temples are Ram Mandir, Ganesh Mandir, Shiva Mandir, Hanuman Mandir, Ram Krishna Mandir, Panchamukhi Hanuman Mandir, Baba Makhandada Kuti and others. Jaleshwor Mahadev in Jaleshwor is another popular temple in the nearby area. The temple of Jaleshwor Mahadev was built by King Girban Bir Bikram Shah Dev in 1867 B.S. Some other popular pilgrimage sites are; Maithani, where there are 12 temples and 8 ponds dedicated to different deities; Madai, where the temple of Muneshwor Mahadev is situated; Kanchan Ban, where popular temples in the area are situated; Parbata, where a temple of Hanuman is situated; Karuna, where the famous temple of Ram Janaki is a major attraction. Dhanusha Forest near Dhanusha Temple is ideal for picnic or leisurely walk in the shade. The forest is lush with trees, bushes and a big pond. There are possibilities of carrying out sports in the lake in future.
Diverse cultural groups live in the district of Dhanusha. Yadavs, Teli, Brahmins, Kayastha, Tharu, Musahar, Rajput and Chhetri are the main inhabitants of these villages. Most are farmers by occupation. The whole region is also considered center of the Maithali culture, therefore Maithali art and culture is predominant in this area.
Festivals celebrated with much pomp and joys are: Ram Navami during Dashain in October; Vivaha Panchami that celebrates Ram-Sita’s union in November; the famous Terai festival of Chhath Parba also in November; Maghe Sankranti in January; and Falgun Purnima in February or March when thousands of devotees carry out Parikrama of Janakpur and nearby sacred sites.
Luxury hotels to budget accommodation and food facilities are available in Janakpur city. Dharamashalas are also available for pilgrims at Dhanushadham site. Food is delicious with Indian culinary touch. Varieties of sweets and vegetarian specialities are available for devout Hindus. Other tourist facilities are also available in Janakpur.
The best months to visit Dhanushadham are between October-March. The weather is hot, humid during summers and pleasant during winters, with maximum rain between June-August.
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