Ratna Sagar

Ratna Sagar, meaning "Ocean of Jewels," is a sacred pond in Janakpur surrounded by temples and considered one of the four holiest ponds in the city. Located about a 10-minute walk from Ramananda Chowk, this serene site offers spiritual seekers a tranquil environment for contemplation and worship.

The name carries deep legendary significance: ancient stories tell that King Janaka, the wise and wealthy ruler of Mithila, used this pond to store precious jewels. Whether this represents actual treasure or a metaphor for spiritual riches, the name has persisted through millennia, connecting visitors to the glorious era of the Mithila Kingdom described in the Ramayana.

Ratna Sagar Temple, named after the sacred pond it surrounds, is dedicated to Lord Rama and Mother Sita. The temple is quite tall and houses idols of the divine couple, continuing the worship tradition that has existed since the ancient kingdom. A beautiful garden surrounds the temple complex, creating a picturesque panorama that delights both spiritual seekers and photographers.

As part of Janakpur's identity as the "City of Ponds," Ratna Sagar contributes to the remarkable collection of over 72 ancient water bodies dotting the landscape. These ponds were constructed for religious ceremonies, ritual bathing, and practical water storage, creating a unique urban ecosystem that has sustained the city for millennia.

A visit to Ratna Sagar offers escape from the bustling city center. The peaceful atmosphere, gentle waters, and surrounding temple architecture create an environment conducive to meditation and spiritual reflection. Many pilgrims include Ratna Sagar in their circuit of Janakpur's sacred sites, paying respects at the temple before continuing to other holy locations.

The pond and temple complex represent the integration of Hindu devotion with the natural environment—a characteristic feature of Mithila religious architecture that sought harmony between worship spaces and water bodies.