Patna: The transformation of Punaura Dham in Sitamarhi, regarded as the birthplace of Mata Janaki, is gathering pace with construction of a grand temple and development of the wider pilgrimage complex.
The Bihar Tourism Department has set December 31, 2028 as the target for completing the grand temple. Meanwhile, devotees will continue to worship at the site through a newly prepared temporary wooden pavilion while construction progresses.
Work has already started on the temple complex, including the construction of pillars, foundations and the boundary wall. An earthen access road is also being developed to support movement around the construction site.
Devotees Can Continue Worship During Construction
To ensure that religious activities continue without interruption, a temporary wooden pavilion, or Kasth Mandap, has been prepared within the Punaura Dham premises.
The idols of Lord Shri Ram and Mata Sita were installed in the pavilion in August 2026. Devotees can continue to have darshan and participate in worship while construction of the permanent temple moves forward.
The temporary arrangement is intended to maintain continuity of religious activities during the multi-year construction process.
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Temple Construction Gains Momentum
The grand temple is a key component of the wider Punaura Dham development project. Construction teams are currently working on pillars for various proposed buildings, along with the foundation and boundary wall of the temple complex.
An earthen access road is also being constructed to facilitate movement of workers, materials and equipment at the project site.
The government has targeted completion of the main temple by December 31, 2028, after which Mata Janaki’s idol will be installed in the newly constructed temple.
Technical Preparations Already Completed
Several preparatory steps have been completed before the main construction work.
According to the Tourism Department, soil testing and surveys have been completed, while the project has also received the required environmental clearance.
Some existing structures and assets located within the project area have also been demolished, clearing space for the planned development.
These preparatory works have enabled construction activities to move ahead at different parts of the site.
More Than a Temple: A Complete Pilgrimage Complex
The Punaura Dham project is planned as a comprehensive pilgrimage and tourism destination rather than a standalone temple.
The wider complex will include several facilities intended to improve the experience of pilgrims and visitors, including:
- Yagya Mandap and Anushthan Mandap
- Residence for the Peethadhishwar
- Museum and auditorium
- Women’s market or Mahila Haat
- Pilgrimage facilitation centre
- VIP accommodation
- Accommodation for saints
- Other facilities for visitors and devotees
The development is designed to provide religious, cultural and visitor facilities within the same broader complex.
Janam Kund and Sanctum Sanctorum in Focus
The development of Janam Kund and the temple’s Garbha Griha or sanctum sanctorum has also been given an important place in the master plan.
Janam Kund is closely associated with the religious identity of Punaura Dham. The project includes its development along with restoration and security measures for the surrounding complex.
The wider area will also be developed according to the approved plan, linking the key religious features of Punaura Dham with the new temple complex.
Religious Circuit to Link Sitamarhi Sites
The development plan also looks beyond Punaura Dham itself. There are proposals to connect the site with other places associated with Mata Sita in Sitamarhi and nearby areas.
The aim is to create a wider religious tourism circuit so that pilgrims visiting Punaura Dham can also explore other sites connected with the region’s spiritual heritage.
The proposed Sitapuram satellite township and other development components have also been incorporated into the broader plan.
Mithila Art and Local Livelihoods
The project also includes a cultural and economic dimension, with provisions to showcase Mithila’s traditional art and crafts.
Local artistic traditions, including Bajjika and Sikki art, are expected to receive greater visibility through the development. The proposed Mahila Haat could provide a dedicated space where women can sell handicrafts and other locally made products.
This could connect religious tourism with local livelihoods by creating opportunities for artisans and small producers to reach visitors coming to Punaura Dham.
Push for Religious Tourism and Local Economy
Bihar Tourism Minister Kedar Prasad Gupta said Punaura Dham holds major religious significance as the birthplace of Mata Janaki and that its comprehensive development will provide better facilities to pilgrims.
He said the project is expected to give a boost to religious tourism in Sitamarhi, while also creating opportunities for employment and economic activity. The minister also highlighted the role of the project in promoting Mithila’s art, culture and local handicrafts.
With temple construction now underway and the wider complex taking shape, Punaura Dham is being developed as a destination that combines faith, pilgrimage infrastructure, culture and local economic opportunities.
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