Spiritual · Dhanusha Dham
Visit the temple of Shiva's bow
See the temple where pilgrims worship what they believe is a fragment of Shiva's bow, broken by Rama to win Sita, and hear the story from the priests who tend it. Allow about an hour.
The Dhanusha temple stands at the centre of the town, surrounded by smaller shrines, trees and a pond. Pilgrims enter with flowers, sweets and incense, and the priests guide them to the sacred remains that local tradition identifies as part of Shiva's bow. Small stalls by the gate sell flowers, incense and sweets for offerings.
Ask your guide or a priest to tell the story of the swayamvar, the ceremony in which Sita chose her husband. Many versions are told in Maithili songs, and older visitors often join in. The temple has been rebuilt over the years, and you can see newer construction around the older shrine. Pilgrims from the Indian side of Mithila often visit as part of a wider circuit of Ramayana sites.
Remove shoes before entering, dress modestly and make a small offering if you wish. Photography of the inner shrine may not be allowed; ask first. Mornings are quiet and cool, the best time to visit. Combine the visit with a walk through the village or tea at a stall by the gate, and keep small notes for donations.
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Questions
What is at Dhanusha Dham?
Dhanusha Dham has a temple built around what Hindu pilgrims believe is a fragment of Shiva's bow, broken by Rama during Sita's swayamvar in the Ramayana. There are also smaller shrines, a pond, stalls and the surrounding Maithil village. A mela is held at Makar Sankranti.
How far is Dhanusha Dham from Janakpur?
About 18 km on a concrete road, roughly 40 minutes by car or 45 minutes by local bus. Most visitors make it a half-day trip from Janakpur, combining it with the Janaki Mandir and other sites in the city. Hiring a car gives you more flexibility.
Is there an entry fee at Dhanusha Dham?
There is usually no fixed entry fee for the temple. Visitors may make a donation or offering, and priests may ask for a small amount for a blessing or puja. Carry small notes and decide what you are comfortable giving.
Also in Dhanusha Dham
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