Makar Sankranti marks the sun's entry into Capricorn and the turn toward longer days, and it is one of the main festivals at Dhanusadham. Pilgrims from Dhanusha, neighbouring districts and Bihar arrive from early morning, bathe in nearby ponds, offer sesame and rice at the temple and share festive food: chura (beaten rice), dahi (curd), tilkut and sesame laddoo.
A fair grows around the temple, with stalls of sweets, bangles, toys, clothes and household goods, swings for children and devotional music. It is a local celebration rather than a tourist event, and the mix of pilgrims, families and traders gives a strong sense of Mithila village life.
If you plan to visit on the day, start early from Janakpur, agree a meeting point with your group, and keep valuables to a minimum. The temple queue can be long by mid-morning. January mornings in the Terai are often foggy and cold, so bring a warm layer.
Good for
- Pilgrims
- Photographers
- Groups
Questions travellers ask
When is the Dhanusadham fair?
The main fair is on Makar Sankranti, usually 14 or 15 January, with activity continuing for a day or two. Check the exact date in the calendar each year. Smaller gatherings take place on other festival days such as Ram Navami and Vivah Panchami.
What food is eaten on Makar Sankranti in Mithila?
Chura (beaten rice) with dahi (curd) and jaggery is the classic meal, along with sesame sweets such as tilkut and til laddoo. Khichdi is also cooked in many homes. Stalls at the Dhanusadham fair sell most of these.
Is the Dhanusadham fair crowded?
Yes, on the main day the temple and roads are very busy, especially from mid-morning. It is a friendly local crowd, but keep children and seniors close. Visiting early or the day after gives a calmer experience.
