Janaki-Kund
Historical Context and Religious Belief:The term Janaki-Kund is often used for two major ponds: Urvija Kund near Janaki Sthan in the city, and the pond near Punaura Dham. The kund near Janaki Sthan is historically significant, believed to be the spot where King Janaka took Goddess Sita for her bath during her childhood, a belief rooted in local mythology and folk traditions. The word 'Kund' signifies a sacred reservoir or pond, and bathing here is considered an act of great piety. Even though the architectural focus is minimal compared to the temple, the pond's presence is essential to the local narrative of Sita's life. The water body serves not just a historical role but also supports the surrounding ecosystem and community, being a traditional gathering spot. It is deeply integrated into the religious rituals, especially during festivals, and is maintained as a sacred water source alongside the main temple complex. Its tranquil waters offer a moment of reflection on the ancient life and legends of Sita Mata.:
General information
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Ideal Duration:
30 Minutes to 1 Hour:Place Type:
Sacred Water Body and Ritual Site:Entry Fees:
No Specific Entry Fee:There is No Entry Fee to visit the Janaki-Kund. The area is open to the public as a sacred water body.
Donation and Ritual Costs:Like the adjacent temple, donations are welcome for the upkeep of the ghats and water qua...No Specific Entry Fee:There is No Entry Fee to visit the Janaki-Kund. The area is open to the public as a sacred water body.
Donation and Ritual Costs:Like the adjacent temple, donations are welcome for the upkeep of the ghats and water quality. Fees for specialized rituals (like pind-daan) or for hiring a local priest to perform a puja on the ghats are separate and should be negotiated in advance. The purchase of flowers, incense, or lamps for personal offerings is also a voluntary expense. Local authorities may charge a nominal fee for parking near the main temple complex. :Timing:
Regular Timings:Generally accessible from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM, though the immediate surroundings of the kund are usually open 24 hours for pilgrims who wish to take a dip. Ideal Visit Time (Rituals)Sunrise (around 5:30 AM to 7:00 AM) is the most Ideal Visit Time, as this is ...Regular Timings:Generally accessible from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM, though the immediate surroundings of the kund are usually open 24 hours for pilgrims who wish to take a dip. Ideal Visit Time (Rituals)Sunrise (around 5:30 AM to 7:00 AM) is the most Ideal Visit Time, as this is when the water is calmest, and many local devotees perform their morning rituals and surya namaskar (sun salutation). :Special Events:
Chhath Puja:While not directly a temple event, the kund and its ghats become a major center for the sun-worship festival of Chhath Puja (October/November), where thousands of devotees gather to offer Arghya (offering to the Sun God) at sunrise and sunset, a spectacle of fait...Chhath Puja:While not directly a temple event, the kund and its ghats become a major center for the sun-worship festival of Chhath Puja (October/November), where thousands of devotees gather to offer Arghya (offering to the Sun God) at sunrise and sunset, a spectacle of faith and tradition.
Local Festival Rituals:During Janaki Navami and Ram Navami, special rituals involving the sacred water are performed, often including bringing the idol to the ghats for a ceremonial bath (Snan Yatra). :Best Photo Spots:
Reflection Photography:Capturing the perfect still reflection of the surrounding architecture and the sky in the water, especially at daybreak.
Ghat Activity:Photos of the colorful and devout crowds performing puja or taking a dip, focusing ...Reflection Photography:Capturing the perfect still reflection of the surrounding architecture and the sky in the water, especially at daybreak.
Ghat Activity:Photos of the colorful and devout crowds performing puja or taking a dip, focusing on the vibrant cultural and religious activity on the steps (Ghats).
Small Shrines:Close-up shots of the small, simple shrines located on the banks of the kund, often beautifully decorated with flowers and sindur. :Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Taking a Holy Dip or Sprinkling Water:The primary activity is to take a ceremonial dip in the water or at least sprinkle the water over the head as a mark of respect and purification.
Performing Rituals:Devotees can perform pind-daan (ancestral rites) or other water-based pujas on the ghats, often with the help of local priests.
Quiet Reflection:Spend time sitting on the ghats, absorbing the spiritual energy and watching the local life and rituals unfold.
Photo Opportunities: Capture the picturesque view of the temple structures reflected in the kund's water, which is particularly beautiful at dawn or dusk.
Supporting Local Vendors: Buy flowers, diyas (lamps), or prasad from the small local stalls lining the approach to the kund,...
Information
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Why Famous:
Ceremonial Bathing Site of Goddess Sita:Its fame stems from the belief that it was the bathing site of the infant Sita, making the water sacred. Taking a ceremonial dip is considered auspicious, believed to purify sins and fulfill wishes, particularly for women seeking bles...Ceremonial Bathing Site of Goddess Sita:Its fame stems from the belief that it was the bathing site of the infant Sita, making the water sacred. Taking a ceremonial dip is considered auspicious, believed to purify sins and fulfill wishes, particularly for women seeking blessings for a happy married life and fertility. The proximity of the kund to the main temple solidifies its importance, creating a complete pilgrimage experience where one visits the birthplace (Janaki Sthan) and the associated sacred water body. The practice of taking a holy dip continues the ancient traditions of Hindu ritualism linked to water bodies and deities. : -
Architecture:
Natural Water Body and Ritualistic Design:The kund is primarily a Natural or semi-artificial water reservoir/pond, often rectangular or square-shaped. Its Architecture is less about elaborate construction and more about functional design for ritualistic use. It features st...Natural Water Body and Ritualistic Design:The kund is primarily a Natural or semi-artificial water reservoir/pond, often rectangular or square-shaped. Its Architecture is less about elaborate construction and more about functional design for ritualistic use. It features stone or concrete ghats (steps) leading down to the water, allowing devotees to easily take a ceremonial dip or perform achamana (sipping water) during puja. The Dimension varies, but a typical sacred kund can cover an area of several hundred square meters, deep enough to hold water year-round. Surrounding the kund, one often finds small, dedicated shrines or platforms for performing yagnas or havans. The periphery is usually lined with trees, providing shade and a serene atmosphere, with a clear focus on simple, durable construction to manage the high volume of pilgrims, especially during holy festivals. : -
How To Reach:
By Local Transport:Since it is adjacent to the Janaki Sthan Mandir, follow the directions to the main temple. From Sitamarhi Junction (2 KMS), it is a short ride by e-rickshaw or auto-rickshaw. The kund is a well-known landmark and is easily reachable on foot from the temp...
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety (Water Quality)Exercise caution when descending the ghats as they can be slippery. While a dip is traditional, be mindful of the water's condition, especially during the non-peak season. Packing (Clothing for Dip)If you plan to take a holy dip, carry a spare set of clothes and a to...
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