Biratnagar

Biratnagar (बिराटनगर) is a sub-metropolitan city in southeast Nepal. In Nepali "birat" means huge and "nagar" means city. In the past, the region had a king whose name was Birat and the ruins of whose palace can be seen. The name "Biratnagar" for the city comes from the name of King Birat.

Biratnagar is the hometown of many influential leaders in Nepalese politics including Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala, Girija Prasad Koirala, Manmohan Adhikari and Kirtinidhi Bista. Biratnagar is an industrial powerhouse of Nepal with many industries located in and around its suburbs. It is in Koshi Zone - one of the fourteen administrative zones of Nepal and is also the headquarter of Morang district. Its geographical location is 26°28'60"N 87°16'60"E.

It is located in the fertile Gangetic plains and the land is very fertile. Hence Biratnagar has traditionally been an agricultural hub and is home to many industries based on agriculture. It is located at the border with India and is therefore a major centre for trade and commerce with India. Biratnagar is linked with Kathmandu by roads and air. Biratnagar Airport is the regional hub for vital air services serving the Eastern part of the country.

Tourism

Biratnagar is not a typical tourist city but is a great hub to explore the interesting places in eastern Nepal like Ilam. However, there are many things to do in the city. One can stroll along the unique market that is along a straight road and branches out and savour the street food.

For the food lovers, don't miss the tasty barbecues (called "sekuwa" in Nepali) and other local delicacies or satisfy your sweet tooth with tasty sweets in one of many sweet shops in the main market. Some famous restaurants in Biratnagar are Aangan, Sagar, Bikaner Sweet House, Unique Sweets. Also, don't forget to taste the Veg Momos near Chandni Chowk.

Biratnagar is ideal as a hub for travel plans in Eastern Nepal. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve famous for its wildlife, especially for bird-watching enthusiasts, is a mere 90-minute drive from the city. It is also home to the endangered wild buffaloes called "Arna" in Nepali.

The largest rhododendron forests of Tinjure, Milke and Jaljale can be reached in about 3–4 hours. Scenic treks with views of Mt. Makalu and Kanchenjunga can be started from the small towns of Basantapur or Tumlingtar.

The beautiful tea gardens of Ilam are just 4 hours' drive away. Another place of interest is the hilly district of Dhankuta with its orange orchards.

Another beautiful location near Biratnagar is Dharan which is 1.5 hours' journey by bus. The place is famous for Dantkali Mandir and hilly areas.

Border Crossing

India and Nepal have an open border with no restrictions on the movement of people on either side; Indians and Nepalis do not need a passport or visa for crossing the border. Therefore an Indian or a Nepali can cross the border between Jogbani and Biratnagar without carrying any document.

There are six immigration points along the Indo-Nepal border for the entry and exit of nationals of third countries who must carry necessary travel or identity documents such as passport and visa. These are: Banbasa, Dhangadhi, Nepalganj, Bhairahawa (Sunauli), Birganj and Kakarbhita.

From : www.wikipedia.org