Introduction to and the Multidimensional Significance of Dhungrahawa Chowk and Shahipur Chowk

Located in the naturally and culturally rich Thakurbaba Municipality of Bardiya District, Dhungrahawa Chowk and the nearby Shahipur Chowk are two important centers carrying the historical, religious, and commercial identity of this area. Within this municipality, considered a confluence of biodiversity and Tharu culture, both of these chowks serve as focal points for local life, trade, and tourism.

According to local resident Pyari Tharu, “At one time, there was forest all around, and in the middle, along the roadside, there was a small, narrow village called something like ‘dhungra.’ Because it was a narrow, elongated (hemp-pipe-like) village, in the Tharu language it came to be called ‘dhungra,’ which was gradually corrupted into the name ‘Dhungrahuwa.'” Full of historical and religious significance, the greatest religious feature of these chowks and their surrounding area is the historic Mahadev Temple located here.

The Mahadev Temple and Religious Faith

The Mahadev Temple in this area is a cherished site of religious faith for local residents. During Shivaratri, the month of Shrawan, and other special festivals, large crowds of devotees gather here to worship Budhasubba and Mahadev. This temple and its surrounding area have made a great contribution to keeping traditional customs, Tharu culture, and religious values alive at the local level.

Commercial and Economic Activity

Various snack shops, restaurants, and stores serving local residents and travelers operate at these chowks.

Authentic Shahipur Khuwa and Local Dishes

This bakery, located in the Shahipur area, is a major attraction here. The special khuwa (a milk-based sweet) and locally made donuts, sel-samosa, and pakoda found here have made this place quite popular among the younger generation and local residents.

Diverse Products and Delivery

The bakeries and shops in this area produce pure-milk sweets and customized cakes, and also provide home delivery and surprise gift services to Thakurbaba Municipality (Bhurigaun, Ranipur, Manpur) and neighboring Madhuwan Municipality, boosting economic activity. Through diversification in agriculture, farmers and producers have each built their own distinct identity by producing their own specialty items — such as fish, leafy greens, pigs, and chicken — in large quantities.

Natural, Environmental, and Tourism Potential — Proximity to Bardiya National Park

Due to their proximity to Bardiya National Park, these chowks are also significant as tourist routes. The peaceful, lush, and clean environment here has the capacity to attract both domestic and international tourists.

Cultural Tourism

In this area, home to a large Tharu population, visiting tourists can experience the local culture, way of life, and taste of traditional dishes.