What is Barahachhetra?

Barahachhetra (also spelled Baraha Kshetra) is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage destinations in Nepal, located in the Sunsari District of Koshi Province. It lies near Dharan, in eastern Nepal, at the confluence of the Koshi and Koka rivers. The temple is devoted to the Baraha (Varaha) incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who took the form of a boar to save the Earth.

Barahachhetra is recognized as one of the four sacred “Kshetras” in Hindu scriptures, alongside Kurukshetra, Kedarnath, and Muktinath. It is also one of the most visited pilgrimage sites during Makar Sankranti.

Location and Accessibility

• Province: Koshi Province (formerly Province No. 1)

• District: Sunsari

• Nearby City: Dharan (approx. 5 km)

• Elevation: Around 400 meters above sea level

• GPS Coordinates: ~26.9°N, 87.3°E

How to Reach Barahachhetra:

• From Dharan: 20–30 minutes by vehicle or 3–4 hours on foot (popular during pilgrimages)

• From Biratnagar: About 60 km via Itahari and Dharan

• Nearest Airport: Biratnagar Airport (~1.5 hours’ drive)

• Public Transport: Local jeeps, buses, and footpaths accessible year-round

Religious Significance of Barahachhetra Temple

The main temple at Barahachhetra is dedicated to the Varaha avatar of Lord Vishnu. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Baraha, a wild boar, to rescue the Earth (personified as Goddess Bhudevi) from the demon Hiranyaksha, who had submerged it in the cosmic ocean.

 Features of the Temple:

• Main Idol: A large stone idol of Baraha with Goddess Lakshmi seated on his back

• Temple Architecture: Traditional Nepali pagoda-style structure

• Other Shrines: Small temples dedicated to Shiva, Ganesh, and other Hindu deities

• Located at the Triveni Sangam (confluence) of Koka and Sapta Koshi rivers

 Scriptural References:

• Cited in the Skanda Purana, Brahma Purana, and other ancient texts

• Reputed to be a meditation site for Rishi Veda Vyasa, Parashar, and Valmiki

Barahachhetra Mela and Major Festivals

🔅 Makar Sankranti (January 14–15)

• The largest religious fair (Barahachhetra Mela) is held annually on Makar Sankranti

• Over 100,000 pilgrims attend to bathe at the river confluence and offer prayers

🔅 Kartik Purnima (October–November)

• Considered highly auspicious for spiritual purification and ancestral offerings

🔅 Other Observances

• Shraddha and Tarpan: Rituals for ancestors performed at the riverbanks

• Ekadashi, Haribodhini Ekadashi, and other Vaishnav festivals draw crowds year-round

Spiritual and Natural Environment

Barahachhetra is situated in a peaceful forest region, surrounded by hills and flowing rivers. The area is ideal for:

• Meditation and yoga retreats

• Spiritual hiking from Dharan

• Nature photography and bird watching

 Koshi River Significance:

• The Koshi (Sapta Koshi) is Nepal’s largest river

• Bathing at its confluence with Koka River is believed to cleanse sins and grant moksha

Nearby Attractions and Pilgrim Circuits

Facilities and Tourism Services

Barahachhetra is developing steadily as a spiritual tourism hub with support from both government and local communities.

 Available Amenities:

• Dharmashalas and guest houses for pilgrims

• Local eateries and tea shops

• Parking areas and public restrooms

• Guides and pujaris (priests) for rituals

 Development Plans:

• Paving and lighting of roads to the temple

• Construction of footbridges, resting shelters, and information centers

• Preservation of the Baraha heritage complex as a national cultural site

Visitor Tips for Travel Content

Target keywords: pilgrimage Nepal, Barahachhetra travel guide, Vishnu temples in Nepal, spiritual tourism Koshi Province

Travel Tips:

• Visit during early morning for calm rituals and photogenic light

• Carry modest attire and personal water/snacks

• Respect local customs during Shraddha rituals

• Hire a local guide if visiting during off-peak season

Quick Summary Table

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Conclusion: Why Visit Barahachhetra?

Barahachhetra, Nepal is a destination where myth, devotion, and natural beauty intersect. As one of the oldest and holiest Hindu temples in the Himalayan region, it offers:

• Spiritual fulfillment

• Cultural immersion

• Scenic natural experiences