Jhapa (झापा)

Kakarbhitta is the main eastern border gateway between Nepal and India, located in Mechinagar Municipality. It serves as an active international trade and transit hub, facilitating the movement of cargo, tourists, and cultural exchanges between eastern Nepal and the Indian states of West Bengal, Sikkim, and Assam. The town features a bustling commercial area, major transport terminals, and custom offices. It is the primary entry point for international travelers overland, welcoming visitors with its lively border-town energy and serving as the starting point for exploring the plains and hills of eastern Nepal.

Kichakbadh is an important archaeological and historical site located in the southern part of Jhapa, near the Mechi River. According to the Hindu epic Mahabharata, this site was the capital of the ancient Matsya Kingdom, ruled by King Virat. It is believed to be the exact location where the army commander Kichaka was killed by Bhima. Excavations have revealed ancient brick walls, clay pottery, and stone sculptures dating back thousands of years. The site features a quiet pond, a beautifully maintained park, and lifelike statues depicting the dramatic battle between Bhima and Kichaka, making it a significant spot for historical and spiritual tourism.

Arjundhara Dham, often referred to as the 'Pashupatinath of the East,' is a highly prominent Hindu pilgrimage site located in Arjundhara Municipality. The temple's mythology is deeply tied to the Mahabharata; it is believed that during their exile, the Pandavas stopped here, and Arjuna shot an arrow into the earth to create a spring. The sacred spring water flows continuously into a central pond through five stone sprouts designed like cow heads, symbolizing the quenching of the thirst of sacred cows. The temple attracts thousands of devotees during major festivals like Maha Shivratri and Bala Chaturdashi, who come to take holy baths.

Satakshi Dham is a highly sacred religious and natural sanctuary located on the banks of the Satasidham River, tucked away at the foothills of the Mahabharat range. The site features ancient rock caves, small temples, and natural spring pools, creating a serene, highly spiritual atmosphere that feels untouched by time. According to local legend, Goddess Satakshi Devi hid in these natural caves to escape from demons. The dham attracts thousands of pilgrims during the Bala Chaturdashi festival, who come to pay homage to their deceased ancestors and perform sacred rituals. It is also a beautiful spot for birdwatching and hiking.

The Kankai River, also known as the sacred Kankai Mai, is the largest river flowing through Jhapa district, originating from the hills of Ilam. The river is highly revered as a holy goddess, and its banks serve as sacred cremation grounds, religious ashrams, and the venue for the famous Maghe Sankranti festival. The Kankai Corridor features beautifully developed riverfront embankments, parks, and temple complexes. The iconic Kankai Bridge, the longest bridge on the East-West Highway, offers spectacular, wide-open views of the river basin and the stunning sunsets, making it a popular spot for evening walks and relaxation.

Kachankawal is a unique geographical extreme, recognized as the lowest point of Nepal, situated at an altitude of just 59 meters above sea level in southern Jhapa, bordering India. The site is marked by a official memorial pillar surrounded by a quiet pond, representing a significant geographic landmark of the country. The surrounding area is home to the dense Kachankawal forest, which protects unique lowland flora and fauna. It is inhabited by the Rajbanshi and Santhal communities, offering visitors a chance to experience their distinct, culturally rich lifestyles and taste traditional lowland cuisines like Bhakka (rice flour cake).