Madhesh Province (मधेश प्रदेश), located in the southernmost part of Nepal, is a vibrant region known for its fertile plains, rich cultural heritage, and strong cross-border trade ties with India. Formerly known as Province No. 2, it was renamed in January 2022 to reflect the identity and aspirations of the people of the Madhesi community.

Key Facts

• Capital: Janakpurdham (Janakpur)

• Area: Approx. 9,661 square kilometers (smallest province by area)

• Population: Over 6.1 million (as per latest census, highest population density)

• Major Languages: Maithili, Bhojpuri, Nepali, Tharu, Urdu

• Time Zone: NPT (UTC+5:45)

Geography and Administrative Division

Madhesh Province consists entirely of Terai (plains) region, stretching along Nepal’s southern border with India (Bihar state). The terrain is flat, agriculturally rich, and highly populated.

The province comprises 8 districts:

• Saptari

• Siraha

• Dhanusha

• Mahottari

• Sarlahi

• Rautahat

• Bara

• Parsa

Its strategic location makes it crucial for transportation, trade, and agriculture in Nepal.

Major Cities and Cultural Centers

1. Janakpurdham (Janakpur)

• Capital of Madhesh Province

• Spiritual city associated with Hindu goddess Sita (Janaki), wife of Lord Rama

• Major pilgrimage site featuring:

  • Janaki Temple

  • Vivah Mandap

  • Ram-Janaki marriage celebrations (Vivah Panchami)

2. Birgunj (Parsa District)

• Nepal’s major customs and trade hub with India

• Often referred to as the “Gateway to Nepal”

• Hosts the Dry Port, industrial corridor, and vibrant commercial areas

3. Rajbiraj, Malangwa, Gaur and Kalaiya

• Important towns with cultural, political, and economic relevance

Culture and Ethnic Diversity

Madhesh is one of Nepal’s most culturally rich and linguistically diverse regions. It is home to communities such as:

• Madhesi, Maithil, Tharu, Muslims, and Hill migrants

• Major religions: Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism

Key festivals include:

• Chhath Puja (celebrated with grand rituals on riverbanks)

• Vivah Panchami (symbolic marriage of Ram and Sita)

• Holi, Diwali, Eid, Ram Navami

• Teej, Maghi, and local fairs

Economy and Infrastructure

The economy of Madhesh Province is deeply rooted in:

• Agriculture: Major crops include rice, wheat, sugarcane, vegetables, and pulses

• Trade and commerce: With India through multiple checkpoints (Birgunj, Raxaul, Jaleshwar)

• Industrial growth: Concentrated in Bara-Parsa Industrial Corridor and Birgunj

• Remittances and small enterprises also play vital roles

Key infrastructures include:

• Tribhuvan Highway

• Birgunj Dry Port

• Railway line (Jaynagar to Janakpur)

• Proposed expansions in airport and rail connectivity

Tourism and Pilgrimage Highlights

• Janaki Temple: A grand example of Maithili architecture, attracting Hindu pilgrims from Nepal and India

• Gadhimai Temple (Bara): Site of the famous Gadhimai Mela, one of the largest religious festivals in South Asia

• Mithila Art and Craft: Traditional wall paintings, textiles, and pottery

• Dhanusha Dham, Parsa Wildlife Reserve, and Maithili cultural museums

Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges:

• Flooding and water management issues during monsoon

• Inadequate health and educational infrastructure

• Political and social inclusion issues

Opportunities:

• Expansion of religious and cultural tourism

• Development of cross-border trade and transport

• Promotion of Mithila art, handicrafts, and agribusiness

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Janakpur is believed to be the ancient capital of Mithila, birthplace of Sita

• The Janakpur-Jaynagar railway is one of Nepal’s only functioning passenger train services

• The Chhath festival is so culturally significant that it’s a public holiday in many districts