The Bishnupaduka Temple, located in Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City-20, has garnered widespread recognition as a center of spiritual devotion. Nestled amidst the picturesque Sunsari district, Bishnupaduka is revered as the sacred site where Lord Vishnu is believed to have performed ancestral rites, seeking salvation for His ancestors. This sacred site holds deep significance for adherents of the ancestral offering tradition.
Milan Timsina, who traveled from Jhapa, spoke about his profound faith in performing ancestral rituals at Bishnupaduka Temple to bring salvation to his departed father. “I have come here to conduct ancestral rites in memory of my parents. Despite challenges in accessibility and transportation, there is a strong belief that ancestors attain peace here,” he remarked.
Similarly, Suman Bista from Morang shared his belief that performing rituals at Bishnupaduka Temple brings solace to the souls of the departed. Rajkumar Niraula, Chairman of the Bishnupaduka Temple Management Committee, emphasized that devotees from various parts of Nepal and different regions of India gather annually on the auspicious day of Poush Shukla Aunsi to offer prayers in significant numbers, ranging from 150 to 200 devotees daily.
Situated about 12 kilometers from Dharan’s main bazaar, Bishnupaduka Temple attracts a daily influx of 150 to 200 devotees. Padam Limbu, Ward Chairperson of Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City-20, stressed the importance of conserving and promoting this religious and tourist destination.
Established in 1970 through excavation efforts led by Laxman Ghising, the temple is renowned for its footprint of Lord Vishnu carved in stone, believed to be left during His worship. Although traditionally overseen by Tamang priests, Brahmin priests now conduct ancestral offering rituals at the temple.
