Rare Mystical Flower Bloom Draws Thousands

Thousands of devotees and visitors gathered on Monday at the historic Salhesh Fulbari, a sacred grove nestled about 4 kilometers west of Lahan Bazaar in Siraha district, in Eastern Nepal. The event marked the annual blooming of a mysterious garland-shaped flower that appears just once a year on the first day of Baisakh ( 1st Day of New Year of the Nepali Calendar) .

The rare bloom, growing high on a Haaram tree (Bischofia javanica), is not just a botanical wonder but a living symbol of one of Nepal’s most cherished folk love stories. It’s the eternal bond between the 14th-century folk hero King Salhesh and his beloved Kusma Malini. According to local legend, Salhesh Fulbari is the very place where their love first blossomed, and the flower is believed to be a divine reminder of their union.

Each year, the miraculous bloom draws pilgrims not only from across Nepal but also from neighboring countries. Many come to witness the flower with reverence, believing that couples who offer prayers or make vows beneath the sacred tree are blessed with a harmonious married life and the fulfillment of heartfelt wishes.

The mystical flower fades with Baisakh’s first day.