Janakpur

Janakpur or Janakpurdham (Maithili: जनकपुर, pronounced [/dʒənəkpuɾ/]), is the capital city of Madhesh Province in Nepal. This sub-metropolitan city is a central hub for the Maithili language, as well as for religious and cultural tourism in Nepal. The city was founded in the early 18th century but was retrospectively designated as the location of the capital of the Videha kingdom and the birthplace of Hindu deity Sita. The founder of modern Janakpur is considered to be the 17th century's ascetic Hindu saint Sannyasi Shurkishordas. Janakpur is located about 225 km (140 mi) southeast of Kathmandu. As of 2021, the city had a population of 195,438, with a density of 2,125/km2. Janakpur is currently the fourth most densely populated city in Nepal. Janakpur is located about 23 km from the Bhitthamore border with India. Nepal Railways operates a service between Janakpur and Jainagar in India.