Dharān, Nepal
Region: Province No. 1
Geographic Coordinates: 26.816700, 87.283300
Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 30.0°C (59°F to 86°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 116181
Language: Nepali
Dharān is a stunning city located in the eastern part of Nepal, Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is one of Nepal’s largest cities and serves as a gateway to many popular trekking destinations such as Kanchenjunga, Makalu-Barun National Park, And Everest Base Camp. The city has a rich cultural heritage and boasts an array of temples, Monasteries, And shrines that reflect its diverse religious traditions. The famous Pindeshwor Temple attracts thousands of devotees every year. Other notable landmarks include Buda Subba Temple, Dantakali Temple, And Saptashrungi Mata Mandir.
Dharān is also known for its lush green hillsides covered with tea gardens that produce some of the finest teas in Nepal. The tea industry has been an essential part of Dharān’s economy for over 100 years. Visitors can take a tour of these tea estates to learn about the process of tea production while enjoying scenic views. The city has several parks and gardens where visitors can relax amidst nature’s beauty. The popular Biratnagar Wildlife Reserve lies just on its outskirts which offers visitors an opportunity to spot rare species such as Bengal tigers and Indian rhinoceroses among others.
For those interested in history and culture, Dharān Museum provides insights into local customs and traditions through exhibits showcasing artifacts from various ethnic groups inhabiting this region. A visit to this museum will help you understand how people have lived here for centuries despite facing numerous challenges over time. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year including Dashain-Tihar (Nepali New Year), Holi (Festival Of Colors), Teej (Women’s Festival) among others which provide visitors with unique cultural experiences they won’t find anywhere else.
Dharān offers something for everyone – from breathtaking natural beauty to rich cultural heritage, From adventure sports to historical landmarks. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Nepal and looking for an authentic Nepalese experience.
- Pindeshwor Temple: This is a popular Hindu temple located in the heart of Dharan.
- Budhasubba Temple: This is another popular temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and located on a hilltop.
- Buda Subba Zoological Park: This is a zoo that houses various species of animals and birds.
- Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve: This is a protected area that houses various species of wildlife including wild elephants, tigers, rhinos, and more.
- Dantakali Temple: This is an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kali located on the banks of the Koshi River.
- Bhedetar Hill Station: This is a beautiful hill station located near Dharan that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Namaste Falls: These are beautiful waterfalls located near Dharan that attract many tourists every year.
- Tamor River Rafting: The Tamor River offers some thrilling white water rafting experiences for adventure seekers visiting Dharan.
- Textile Industry: Dharān has a thriving textile industry with numerous small and medium-sized mills producing cotton, woolen, and silk fabrics.
- Cement Industry: Several cement factories in Dharān produce high-quality cement for construction purposes.
- Chemical Industry: Many chemical factories in Dharān produce chemicals used in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, plastics, and textiles.
- Agriculture: Agriculture is an essential source of income for people living around Dharan. The fertile plains surrounding the city are suitable for growing crops like rice, wheat, maize, vegetables and fruits.
- Service Sector: The service sector also contributes significantly to the economy of Dharan with many hotels, restaurants, banks and other service providers catering to tourists as well as local residents.
- Education Sector: There are several schools, colleges, and universities located within or near Dharan making it an educational hub too.
- Transportation: Being situated on the east-west highway, Dharan serves as a major transportation hub connecting different parts of Nepal.
- The city of Dharan was established in 1902 by the Rana dynasty to serve as a trade route between India and Tibet.
- During World War II, Dharan played an important role as a base for the British Indian Army and as a supply center for the Burma Campaign.
- Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala, a prominent political figure in Nepal, spent several years in exile in Dharan after being imprisoned by King Mahendra’s regime.
- The royal massacre that occurred at Narayanhiti Palace in Kathmandu in 2001 had a significant impact on Dharan, with many residents expressing shock and grief over the tragedy.
- Dharan is home to several prestigious educational institutions including BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS), Purbanchal University, and Sunsari Technical College.
- The city has a diverse population that includes people from various ethnic groups such as Limbu, Rai, Gurung, Newar, Brahmin-Chhetri among others.
- Agriculture is one of the main sources of income for people living in rural areas around Dharan while industries like tea processing plants are also prevalent in some parts of town.
- Many famous mountaineers have passed through or trained at nearby hills or peaks like Mount Everest before their expeditions.
- The Limbuwan Movement is a political movement led by indigenous Limbu community to demand greater political autonomy within Nepal which started from this region.
- Damak Refugee Camp is located near Damak which is about 20km away from Darhan where thousands Bhutanese refugees were settled in early 1990s.
- Dantakali Temple is a well-known Hindu temple situated in Dharan, which is devoted to the goddess Kali.
- Pindeshwor Temple is another famous Hindu temple in Dharan that has beautiful architecture and great religious significance.
- Buda Subba Temple is a Buddhist temple located on a hilltop that provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley.
- Sunsari Museum showcases the history, culture, and tradition of Nepal’s Sunsari district.
- Sagarmatha Park is an ecological park with diverse flora and fauna species that nature lovers will enjoy visiting.
- Namaste Falls is a picturesque waterfall situated near Dharan that offers visitors an escape from city life.
- Bhanu Bhakta Memorial Park honors Nepalese poet Bhanubhakta Acharya and features his statue as well as beautiful gardens and walking paths for visitors to enjoy.
- Bijaypur Fort dates back to the 16th century, giving visitors a glimpse into Nepal’s rich history.
- Mahendra Stadium is Eastern Nepal’s largest sports stadium used for various sporting events and concerts throughout the year.
- Shiva Mandir Dhankuta Road Market Area: One of the oldest temples in town known for its unique architectural style where many people come every day to worship Lord Shiva.
- Dharan Football Club: Established in 1972, Dharan FC is one of the oldest football clubs in Nepal. The club has won several domestic tournaments and produced many talented players who have represented Nepal at the international level.
- Morang Football Club: Founded in 2009, Morang FC is another popular football club based in Dharan. The club has won several regional tournaments and has been a regular participant in the Nepali National League.
- Sunsari Cricket Association: Sunsari Cricket Association is one of the most active cricket associations in Nepal, with its headquarters located in Dharan. The association organizes various cricket tournaments and has produced many talented cricketers who have represented Nepal at an international level.
- Eastern Region Volleyball Association: Eastern Region Volleyball Association promotes volleyball as a sport across eastern Nepal, with its headquarters located in Dharan. The association organizes various volleyball tournaments and training programs for young players.
- Eastern Region Basketball Association: Similar to volleyball, Eastern Region Basketball Association promotes basketball as a sport across eastern Nepal, with its headquarters located in Dharan. The association organizes various basketball tournaments and training programs for young players to develop their skills and talent.
Overall, these sports teams have significantly contributed to the development of sports culture within Dharan city as well as across the eastern region of Nepal over the years by showcasing exceptional performances on national & international platforms while inspiring younger generations to pursue their passion for sportsmanship & excellence both on & off fields/courts/grounds etc..
- Dharan Mahotsav is a cultural festival that occurs annually in Dharan and lasts for three days. It features traditional dances, music performances, food stalls, and other entertainment events.
- Janai Purnima, also known as the Sacred Thread Festival, is celebrated by Hindus in August each year. Men change their sacred thread (Janai), while women tie a yellow thread around their wrist for protection.
- Dashain is the largest festival in Nepal and celebrated by both Hindus and Buddhists between September to October for 15 days. People visit their families, receive blessings from elders, play games like swings (Linge Ping) or fly kites (Changa Chet), eat delicious food while celebrating with joy.
- Tihar or Diwali takes place during October or November each year to celebrate the Festival of Lights where people light up candles outside their homes to welcome goddess Laxmi into their homes.
- Buddha Jayanti happens on the full moon day of May/June every year commemorating Lord Buddha’s birth anniversary; it’s an important day for Buddhists worldwide.
- Holi is a colorful celebration happening during February/March each year when people throw colors at each other to celebrate the arrival of spring season.
Note: Due to COVID-19 pandemic situation some festivals may be cancelled or postponed until further notice.
- Chatamari: A thin pancake-like dish made with rice flour, eggs, minced meat or vegetables, and spices. It is a popular street food in Dharan.
- Bhakka: A steamed dumpling made with millet flour and served with spicy tomato chutney.
- Dhido: A thick porridge-like dish made with buckwheat or millet flour and served with vegetables or meat curry.
- Newa Lahana: A traditional Newari restaurant that serves authentic Newari cuisine like choila (spicy grilled meat), bara (lentil pancake), and yomari (sweet dumpling).
- Bishal Bazaar: A popular food court in Dharan that offers a variety of local dishes like momo (dumplings), chow mein (stir-fried noodles), thukpa (noodle soup), and sel roti (sweet rice bread).
- Hotel Sathi: An iconic restaurant in Dharan known for its chicken fry, mutton curry, and fish fry.
- Rameshwor Restaurant: Another famous eatery that serves delicious Nepali thali along with other local dishes.
- The Pizza Station: If you’re craving pizza in Dharan, head to this place for some tasty wood-fired pizzas topped with fresh ingredients.
- Cafe 99 Degrees Celsius: This cozy cafe is a great place to hang out while sipping on some coffee or tea along with sandwiches, burgers, pasta dishes etc.
- Bhojan Griha: A fine-dining restaurant located inside the beautiful Gorkha Palace which serves traditional Nepalese food as well as Indian delicacies.
- Ghopghopā Pokhari: A popular public park in Dharan, known for its beautiful lake and scenic views.
- Panchakanya Park: A well-maintained park with a variety of recreational activities including boating, cycling, and jogging.
- Bijayapur Park: Another popular park in Dharan that offers a peaceful environment for relaxation and recreation.
- Saptarangi Park: A newly constructed park that features a variety of outdoor activities such as rock climbing and zip-lining.
- Tinkune Park: A small yet vibrant public park that is perfect for picnics and family outings.
- Bhedetar View Tower: Located just outside of Dharan, this tower offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
- Shree Antu View Point: Another scenic viewpoint located near Dharan that offers breathtaking views of the sunrise over the Himalayas.
- Trekking/Hiking Trails: There are several trekking routes around Dharan that offer opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Nepal’s eastern region, including Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek and Makalu Base Camp Trek among others.
