According to the legends, soil from this site was taken for the marriage ceremony of Rama and Sita. A copper inscription reveals that in 1869 BS (1812-1813 AD), King Girvan Yuddha Bikram Shah allocated 275 bighas of land for the temple’s administration.
Located near Janakpur, the temple shares cultural similarities with the city and is part of the Panchkoshi circuit. The temple is built in a dome style which features a submerged Shiva Linga in a quadrangular water tank beneath 16 steps. The temple is said to be named Jaleshwar Mahadev because Lord Shiva is believed to dwell in a pool of water, manifested as the Shivalinga. The surrounding ponds, including Barun Sir, Purand Sir, Purni Sir, and Mahantha, further enhance the temple’s spiritual atmosphere, serving ritual and symbolic purposes.
Festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Maghe Sankranti draw massive crowds to the temple. On Maha Shivaratri, devotees can touch the Shiva Linga, a rare opportunity as it remains underwater for the rest of the year. But the interesting thing about this opportunity is that the water refills in mere minutes after being completely drained. This remarkable occurrence adds to the temple's mystique and spiritual significance, with many considering it a divine aspect of the site.
The Jaleshwar Mahadev Temple carries a quiet charm that draws people in with its simplicity and spiritual energy. The sight of the submerged Shiva Linga, surrounded by water, feels almost magical, while the nearby ponds add to the temple’s peaceful atmosphere. Whether visiting during a bustling festival or on a calm day, the temple offers a sense of connection and serenity that lingers long after you leave.
Despite its religious importance, challenges in administration remain, with historical land allocations no longer in effect. Efforts are ongoing to include the temple in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Photo Credit-Wikidata,What The Nepal,khojnu.com.
