Dharan is a sub-metropolitan city in Nepal, situated in the Sunsari District of Eastern Nepal. It is the gateway to the Mahabharat hills and is one of the biggest pilgrimage locations in Nepal. This low-lying hilly region is extremely clean, colorful, and culturally diverse as well as a center for football in Nepal, hence it being called ‘mini-Brazil’. Located in the Sunsari District of Eastern Nepal, the city does not have extreme climates, making it a pleasant destination for tourists throughout the year.
Dharan is called a colorful city with multi-cultural diversity. People living in this city are from Sankhuwasabha, Panchthar, Ilam, Bhojpur, Dhankuta and Taplegung Khotang. This calls for multi-ethnic festivities and activities that are celebrated here all throughout the year.
History:
Dharan was once known as ‘Budha Subba’s Fort’, named after a Kirat king. In 1956, the Nepali government established a military academy in Dharan, which is now known as the Tribhuvan University Institute of Technology. Dharan also played a significant role in the Nepali Civil War, as it was a major base for the Maoist rebels.
Geography:
Dharan is situated on the foothills of the Mahabharat Range in the north with its southern tip touching the edge of the Terai region at an altitude of 1148 ft (349m). Dharan bazaar grew up near Phusre where the old walking route to Dhankuta and a large part of the Eastern hills left the plains with the ascent of Sanghuri Danra. In the days when villagers in the hills made their annual trek to sell and buy goods this was a natural location for a market where hills and Terai met.
Culture:
Dharan is a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over Nepal calling it home. The city is known for its vibrant festivals, including the annual Dharan Festival, which celebrates the city’s rich culture and diversity. Dharan is also home to a number of temples, monasteries, and other religious sites.
Economy:
Dharan is a major commercial and industrial center in Eastern Nepal. The city is home to a number of factories, including textile mills, paper mills, and cement factories. Dharan is also a major agricultural center, with the surrounding area producing rice, wheat, maize, and other crops.
Tourism:
Dharan is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over Nepal and the world. The city is known for its natural beauty, including the surrounding hills, rivers, and forests. Dharan is also home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the Budha Subba Temple, the Dharan Clock Tower, and the Namche Bazar.
Things to do in Dharan:
Visit the Budha Subba Temple: This temple is dedicated to Budha Subba, a Kirat king who is said to have founded Dharan.
See the Dharan Clock Tower: This clock tower is a landmark in Dharan and offers stunning views of the city.
Explore Namche Bazar: This traditional market is a great place to experience the local culture and buy souvenirs.
Go white-water rafting on the Seti River: This is a thrilling activity that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Visit the Pathibhara Devi Temple: This temple is dedicated to Pathibhara Devi, a Hindu goddess who is said to protect the city.
Go hiking in the Mahabharat Range: The Mahabharat Range offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Getting to Dharan:
Dharan is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is the Biratnagar Airport, which is about 50 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is the Biratnagar Railway Station, which is about 60 kilometers away. Dharan is also well connected by bus to major cities in Nepal.
Tips for visiting Dharan:
**The best time to visit Dharan is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), when the weather is pleasant.
**Dharan is a relatively safe city, but it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings.
**The local currency in Nepal is the Nepalese rupee (NPR).
**English is not widely spoken in Dharan, so it is helpful to learn some basic Nepali phrases.
Some Related links with Nepal Tour and Trekking:
