Category : Heritage
Baraha Kshetra Temple
-5, Baraha Municipality, Sunsari, Koshi Pradesh9705130100
Barahachhetra (also known as Barahakshetra or Varahakshrata) is a significant Hindu and Kirat pilgrimage site situated between the confluence of Koka and Koshi rivers in Sunsari, Koshi Province, Nepal. As one of Nepal's oldest shrines, it is mentioned in ancient texts like the Brahma Purana, Varaha Purana, Skanda Purana, and even the Mahabharata. Devotees worship the Varaha incarnation of Lord Vishnu here, making it one of the Char Dham in Nepal.
The temple is located about 5 km northwest of Dharan in Sunsari district. The original temple appearance dates back to 1991 BS when it was rebuilt by Juddha Shamsher after being demolished by an earthquake in 1990 BS. The site boasts nine temples, including those dedicated to Laxmi, Panchayan, Guruvarah, Suryavarah, Kokawarah, and Nageshwar, and contains ancient statues over 1500 years old.
Pilgrims visit Barahachhetra throughout the year, with special festivities on Kartik Purnima and Makar Sankranti. Indian pilgrims generally visit during Kartik Purnima, while Nepalese from hilly regions come during Makar Sankranti. Additionally, large numbers of pilgrims attend on days like Rishi Panchami, Byas Panchami, Fagu Purnima, and other festive occasions, creating a year-round vibrant atmosphere.
Barahachhetra derives its name from the myth where Lord Vishnu, in his Varaha incarnation, protected the earth from sinking into the underworld (Patala) with his tusk. He then settled with his wife Laxmi on the banks of the Koshi River, giving the place its sacred significance. The temple area features a significant and beautiful image of the Varaha incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Kumbha Mela
Nepal is the World's Fifth Destination of Kumbha Mela. In every twelve years, a semi-Kumbha Mela has been organizing since 2058 B.S. in Chataradham, Sunsari. The second event was held in 2070 B.S. for the duration of a month. More than 600,000 people visited for Kumbha Asnan in the Koshi in the year 2070.
Features & Services
- Accommodation
- dining
- temple visits
- meditation and prayer areas
- pilgrimage services
- cultural programs
- medical facilities
- transportation
- shopping
- restrooms
- parking
- event hosting.
Opening Hours
- Sun 16 Feb, 2025 5 AM - 6 PM
- Mon 17 Feb, 2025 5 AM - 6 PM
- Tue 18 Feb, 2025 5 AM - 6 PM
- Wed 19 Feb, 2025 5 AM - 6 PM
- Thu 20 Feb, 2025 5 AM - 6 PM
- Fri 21 Feb, 2025 5 AM - 6 PM
- Sat 15 Feb, 2025 Closed - Closed