Budha Subba Temple | Dharan

Budha Subba Temple is a famous religious shrine located on the Bijayapur Hill in Dharan, Sunsari District of Eastern Nepal.

Visual Characteristics

The temple is a small, modest structure, but its defining visual feature is the surrounding grove of tip-less bamboo. These bamboo plants are unique because they lack the pointed tops typically found on the species. The temple grounds are often covered in colorful threads tied by devotees.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Budhasubba Path, Dharan 56700, Nepal.

Access: Located in the Bijayapur area of Dharan. It is easily accessible by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or a 15-minute uphill walk from the main Dharan market.

Hours: Open 24 hours (most active during daylight hours).

Connectivity: Full 4G/5G coverage within the Dharan urban area.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The temple is built on the burial site of Budha Subba, a Limbu hunter. According to legend, he and his sister used to hunt on the hill using slingshots. After he renounced hunting to meditate, he buried his bow and arrows. It is believed that the tip-less bamboo grew from those buried weapons.

Key Highlights & Activities

Naming on Bamboo: Historically, couples would carve their names into the bamboo to ensure eternal love. To prevent damage to the plants, this is now discouraged/prohibited, and devotees instead tie sacred threads to the bamboo.

Sacrifice: The temple is a site for animal sacrifice (mainly roosters and pigs) on Saturdays and during major festivals as an offering to the deity.

Religious Harmony: While originating from Kiranti (Limbu) traditions, the temple is equally revered by Hindus and Buddhists.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Proximity to Dharan: As a major city, Dharan provides high-quality lodging, diverse dining options, and medical facilities.

Stalls: The entrance to the temple is lined with small shops selling offerings, flowers, and local souvenirs.

Best Time to Visit

Saturdays: The most significant day of the week for worship and the busiest for visitors.

Dashain: The temple sees a massive influx of devotees during this major festival.

Facts & Legends

The biological anomaly of the bamboo lacking tips is the temple's most verified technical curiosity. Local legend asserts that Budha Subba's slingshot hit the tips of the bamboo, and they have never grown back since. It is also said that no crows are ever seen in the immediate vicinity of the temple.

Nearby Landmarks

Dantakali Temple – 0.5km (A major Shakti Peetha)

Pindeshwor Temple – 1.0km

Vijayapur Hill Viewpoint – Offers panoramic views of Dharan city and the Terai plains.

Bhedetar – 16km North (Hill station)