Ganga Sagar and the ponds of Janakpur
In Nepali: गंगासागर र जनकपुरका पोखरी · Also known as: Ganga Sagar · Dhanush Sagar · गंगासागर
Janakpur is often called a city of ponds (sagar). Ganga Sagar and Dhanush Sagar, close to the Janaki Mandir, are the most sacred: people bathe at their ghats, and each evening a Ganga aarti with lamps and bells is performed at Ganga Sagar.
During Chhath, in October–November, women stand in the water at sunset and sunrise making offerings to the sun, and the pond banks are lit with thousands of lamps. It is one of the most moving festivals in Nepal to witness.
What to see and do
Walk the ghats of Ganga Sagar and Dhanush Sagar at dusk for the evening aarti, when priests wave lamps to the sound of bells and conch shells. Other notable ponds include Argaja Sagar and Ratna Sagar, some linked with episodes of the Ramayana. In the early morning, the ponds are busy with bathers, washing and prayers.
Good to know
Chhath is the highlight: women fast for days and make offerings to the setting and rising sun from the water's edge. Arrive early for a place on the ghats and respect the devotees' space. Mosquitoes are common in the evenings.
Quick answers
- Where is Ganga Sagar and the ponds of Janakpur?
- Ganga Sagar and the ponds of Janakpur is in Dhanusha district, Madhesh Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
- How much does it cost to visit Ganga Sagar and the ponds of Janakpur?
- Ganga Sagar and the ponds of Janakpur 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 Ganga Sagar and the ponds of Janakpur?
- 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 Ganga Sagar and the ponds of Janakpur?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Ganga Sagar and the ponds of Janakpur?
- Chhath (Oct–Nov); winter evenings
- How do I get to Ganga Sagar and the ponds of Janakpur?
- In central Janakpur, walking distance from Janaki Mandir. It is about 1 km (straight line) from Janakpur.
- What is Ganga Sagar and the ponds of Janakpur called in Nepali?
- गंगासागर र जनकपुरका पोखरी
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