Jalpesh Mela at Shivaratri
Feb–Mar, Mahashivratri (lunar calendar)
The Jalpesh temple stands on the Jarda river about 7–8 km from Maynaguri, around 25 km from Lataguri. Building began in 1524 under the Koch ruler Bishwa Singha and the temple was rebuilt in 1563 and 1663. Its fair at Mahashivratri, in February or March, has run since the seventeenth century, and before independence elephants were traded here.
Today the mela fills the fields around the temple for several days with stalls of household goods, clothes, toys, sweets and food, rides for children and long queues of devotees waiting to offer water and bel leaves to the Shivalinga known as Anadi. Pilgrims come from all over North Bengal and from Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh. There is also a large pilgrimage in the month of Shravan, in July and August.
For visitors based at Lataguri in February or March, a morning at the Jalpesh Mela is a vivid contrast to the forest. Go early, before the crowds peak, keep your belongings close, and expect slow traffic on the Maynaguri road.
How to do it well
- Go early in the morning on a weekday of the fair to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Leave valuables at your lodge and carry small notes for stalls and offerings.
- Hire a car from Lataguri for the morning; buses and autos are packed during the mela.
Questions people ask
Good to know
When is the Jalpesh Mela
The main Jalpesh Mela is held at Mahashivratri, which falls in February or March depending on the lunar calendar, and lasts several days. A second large pilgrimage happens in the month of Shravan, July–August. Check exact dates before you travel.
How do I reach the Jalpesh temple
The temple is about 7–8 km from Maynaguri town and roughly 25 km from Lataguri. Hire a car from Lataguri, or take a bus to Maynaguri and an auto or toto to the temple. During the mela, expect slow traffic and plan extra time.
How old is the Jalpesh fair
The Shivaratri fair at Jalpesh has been held since the seventeenth century, and the temple itself dates its first construction to 1524 under the Koch ruler Bishwa Singha. Before independence, elephants were traded at the fair.
Is the Jalpesh Mela safe for families
Generally yes, but it is very crowded. Keep children close and agree a meeting point, carry little cash, and avoid peak hours on the main Shivaratri day. Mornings on the days around Shivaratri are calmer.