Top 10 Religious Places to Visit in Pokhara
Pokhara is rich in natural beauty but do you know about the many popular religious places to visit in Pokhara?
Pokhara, the city of lakes, is a beautiful valley with vast lush forests, diverse wildlife, adventurous activities, and mesmerizing mountain ranges. However, this place blessed with natural beauty, also holds a huge religious, cultural, and historical significance. Millions of devotees and historians visit Pokhara to pay homage and understand the mysteries of the ancient temples, monasteries, and stories behind them.
Here are the details of the top 10 religious places to visit in Pokhara, their uniqueness, and their specialties.
Best Time to Visit Religious Places in Pokhara
Travelers and devotees can travel to religious places in Pokhara at any time of the year. As Pokhara is one of the tourist areas of Nepal, visitors can feel welcome regardless of the season or month.
Travelers who wish to see specific events can schedule their travel plans accordingly. Some popular events and festivals fall in February, September, and October.
Religious Places to Visit in Pokhara
1. Tal Barahi Temple
Tal Barahi Temple, one of the religious places to visit in Pokhara, occupies a picturesque island setting at the heart of Phewa Lake. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Barahi and was constructed using stones around the lake.
There are records of many constructions and renovations of this place, but the actual origin of the Tal Barahi Temple remains a mystery to all. One popular myth among the locals is that Phewa Lake was once a village submerged into a lake following a massive flood. A villager's kindness to a beggar who was Goddess Barahi in disguise resulted in his house and the surrounding area remaining unharmed. That grateful villager then built a small statue there as a place of worship.
Later, in the 1800s, Kulmandan Shah constructed a temple around the statue. In 2017 B.S., King Mahendra Shah renovated and reconstructed the Tal Barahi temple to give it its current look.
2. World Peace Pagoda
The World Peace Pagoda of Pokhara is one of two peace pagodas in Nepal. It was constructed under the guidance of Nichidatsu Fujii, a Japanese monk, by his followers of Nipponzan-Myōhōji, with the help of local Buddhists in Pokhara.
The pagoda is among the 80 World Peace Pagodas in different parts of the world and symbolizes peace and non-violence. The foundation for the World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara was laid in 1947, and construction began in 1973; however, due to various reasons, it was only on October 30, 1999, that the inaugural ceremony was held and the pagoda was officially opened for the public.
The World Peace Pagoda, at an elevation of 1100 meters, is not only a religious place to visit in Pokhara. It provides an excellent vantage point to relax and gaze at the wonderful Phewa Lake and the mesmerizing snow-capped Annapurna Range.
3. Kedareshwar Mahadev Mani Temple
Kedareshwar Mahadev Mani Temple is a beautiful structure based on the Newari pagoda design. The temple is located near Komagane Park, Pokhara, in a serene environment on the lower bank of Phewa Lake.
Kedareshwar Mahadev Mani Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visitors can find the idol of Lord Shiva in the main temple and figures of other gods and goddesses in small temples around the complex. A statue of Nandi, Shiva’s mount, sits in front of the main temple, guarding it with other followers. The large area of the temple also houses a Gurukul, which teaches young learners different aspects of the Vedas.
This religious place in Nepal fills the devotees with a divine sensation. However, the quiet environment with the beautiful view of Phewa Lake and Queen Forest also gives peace and tranquility to every single visitor.
Kedareshwar Mahadev Mani Temple
4. Gupteshwor Mahadev Temple
Gupteshwor Mahadev Temple is one of the wonders of Nepal. This is one of the best places to visit in Pokhara to seek the thrill of exploration, as the temple of Gupteshwor Mahadev lies deep inside the cave.
The Gupteshwor Mahadev Temple was constructed following the incidental discovery of Shiva Lingam by two herders in a 3 km long cave during the 16th century. Locals found many other statues inside the cave, mostly of Lord Shiva, Parvati, Saraswati, and Nageswor. On the way from the main entrance, visitors will find a cow shed and cow statue over a Shiva Lingam, a Shiva Temple, wall carvings, and a famous underground waterfall, the Davis Falls, at the end.
The construction of the doorway, stairs, internal lighting, and other bridges inside the cave started in 1991. Since then, the Gupteshwor Mahadev Temple has become one of the top religious places to visit in Pokhara.
5. Pumdikot Shiva Statue
The Pumdikot Shiva Statue is the second tallest statue of Shiva in Nepal, with a height of 51 feet on a 57-foot-high white stupa. The 1500-meter-high location of the statue gives a majestic view of mountain ranges and the beautiful Pokhara Valley, making the climb for devotees and hikers worthwhile.
Pumdikot holds great historical and religious significance. This high hill contains 216 Shiva Lingas and is considered a Shaktipeeth—a power point or center of spiritual energy. For many decades, the Shah kings also took advantage of the high ground of Pumdikot and used it as a fort. During the rule of the Malla, Magar, and Shah dynasties, different rites and rituals were performed on the Bhumeshwor Temple of Pumdikot Hill for prosperity and victory in wars.
Even today, local farmers pray for good harvests and protection against storms and natural calamities. The place is filled with devotees during the festive seasons of Chaitee Dashain in April and Haritalika Teej in September. It is believed that fasting and visiting the place during these days make wishes come true.
6. Bindhyabasini Temple
Bindhyabasini Temple is the oldest and most religious place to visit in Pokhara. The temple premises contain many temples of Goddess Saraswati, Lord Hanuman, and Lord Shiva, however, the main temple is dedicated to the Goddess Bindhyabasini, an incarnation of Kali, hence the name.
The history of Bindhyabasini Temple is unsolved and full of mystery. Either the king of Kaski, Siddhi Narayan Shah, or the King of Parbat Khadgaman Malla is believed to have built the temple in 1842 B.S. The story goes that the king dreamed about establishing a temple of the goddess in his nation and ordered his men to bring a statue of the goddess from Bindyachal Parbat. On the way back, the men set up camp for a night, but the next morning, they could not lift the statue from the ground. Then the king decided to construct the temple in the very same place.
The Bindhyabasini Temple was destroyed many times for different reasons. The present temple has Shikhara-style architecture, however, no records about previous styles are available. But this has not affected the worshippers and faith in this temple and its goddess that dwells, or Bindhyabasini.
7. Jangchub Choeling Tibetan Monastery
Jangchub Choeling Tibetan Monastery has huge religious and cultural significance in Pokhara. It was constructed in 1967, under the guidance of Lama Dupsing Rinpoche, by HH, the 14th Dalai Lama.
The monastery consists of several shrines and temples dedicated to various Buddhist deities, including different forms of Lord Buddha, such as Avalokiteshvara and Manjushri. The Mahakala Dance and rally, observed in the month of Magh (January to February) every year during Sonam Losar, is a popular celebration among the local Buddhists and Hindus alike. The statue is burned at the end of the rally, and the ceremony is believed to take all the demons away.
Another event in Jangchub Choeling Tibetan Monastery is during Tamu Losar, when locals take copies of Buddhist scriptures around the city to symbolically spread the words of Buddha, and a ceremonial offering of Mandala to Rinpoche is conducted. Rinpoche, then, gives an oral translation of the Buddhist scriptures.
The monastery is free to enter and has no time restriction. However, visitors should notice that monks reside inside the monastery with a daily routine from 5:30 am to 10 pm.
Jangchub Choeling Tibetan Monastery
8. Matepani Gumba
Matepani Gumba of Pokhara was established in 1960 by Nyeshang people who migrated from Manang. The monastery follows the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, which emphasizes the teachings of Buddha and his lifestyle.
The Matepani Gumba features statues of various deities, including Lord Buddha, Guru Rinpoche, and other Bodhisattvas. The grand hall of the gumba has images and writing that illustrate the life and stories of Buddha. The gumba also houses resident monks who dedicate their lives to prayer, meditation, and Buddhist studies. Aside from religious teachings, young monks are also given basic education in subjects similar to regular schools.
Visitors can witness the Matepani Gumba in vibrant colors during important Buddhist festivals like Losar (Tibetan New Year) and Lhabab Duchen (Buddha's Birthday), where monks celebrate the events with traditional prayers, music, and dance.
9. Akaladevi Temple
Akaladevi Temple is another religious place to visit in Pokhara. Although the temple is 5 stories high, people often mistake it for a small structure due to its unique location in a narrow gorge between two cliffs.
Akaladevi Temple of Pokhara is one of the five major temples of Goddess Akaladevi in Nepal. Others are located at Syangja, Lamachaur, and Tanahun. The legend of Goddess Akaladevi follows a story in which a woman has complications while delivering her child. Akaladevi appears and helps the woman. Then, she takes the form of a stone. Locals built a temple around the stone and started worshiping at the place.
The actual idol of the goddess in Akaladevi Temple of Pokhara sits on the top floor, while a representation is placed on the ground floor for visitors to see and devotees to worship and pay homage.
10. Shiva Temple of Sarangkot
Shiva Temple of Sarangkot is a new temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of three prominent Gods in the Hindu religion. The temple is located at an elevation of 1592 meters above sea level and lies on the passage to Sarangkot View Point.
Sarangkot’s Mahadev Shiva Temple is one of the best places to visit in Pokhara. The main temple is built in traditional Newari architecture and houses a Shiva Linga. However, the place is popular among devotees and hikers alike. Travelers can either hike to the temple or use an elevator or cable car service. The visitors experience a serene and peaceful environment to relax and enjoy nature. There is also an eye-fixing view of snow-capped Annapurna and Machchhapuchhre Mountain.
Just above the Shiva Temple, travelers can find Sarangkot View Point with an entire view of Pokhara Valley, including Phewa Lake, Tal Barahi, Jangchub Choeling Tibetan Monastery, Pumdikot Shiva Statue, and World Peace Pagoda.
Route and Duration
Travelers can take either a road or a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The following details information on travel routes and duration for a visit to religious and historical places in Pokhara.
| Distance | ~200 km from Kathmandu to Pokhara |
|---|---|
| Duration by Road | 6 to 8 hours |
| Departure Time | 6 to 7 am |
| Road travel cost | NPR 1200 to NPR 1800 |
| Duration by flight | 20 to 40 minutes |
| Duration by flight | All day |
| Flight travel cost | NPR 4000 to NPR 7000 |
Tips and Guidelines While Visiting Religious Places in Pokhara
Religious places in Pokhara have different customs and traditions from one another, which can be confusing for outsiders. Here are a few tips and guidelines while visiting religious places in Pokhara:
- Dress Modestly: Visitors to religious places in Pokhara should dress modestly with clothing that covers shoulders and knees for both men and women and avoid overly revealing or tight clothing.
- Take Shoes Off: Most religious sites in Pokhara will require visitors to take their shoes off the premises. Some might be exceptions, but always look for designated areas to leave your footwear.
- Headwear: It is considered respectful to take off your headwear, during prayers, rituals, and while receiving blessings from priests and monks.
- Purchasing Offerings: While purchasing the offerings, do so from outside the site, as bargaining at the entrance is often considered disrespectful.
- Offering at Site: While making offerings at religious places, do not touch or disturb already placed items, such as flowers, incense, or lamps.
- Silence: Many religious places, like monasteries and gumbas, expect visitors to avoid loud talking or disruptive behaviors.
- Photography: Some religious areas have restrictions on photography, so ask permission before taking photos or videos.
- Clockwise Circumambulation: During circumambulation or parikrama, remember to walk around the sacred object (temple or idol) in a clockwise direction, not the other way around.
- Ticketing: Most religious places in Pokhara do not require an entry fee. However, inquire with officials about a change in rules for foreigners before entering the premises.
- Be aware of scams: Many scammers roam the religious places in Pokhara, trying to bait travelers into buying worthless items. Be aware of such scammers and have a safe trip.
Take away
There are several religious places to visit in Pokhara. The great thing about these religious places in Pokhara is the proximity of their locations. Every temple and monasteries are within close proximity to one another. This also shows the religious harmony among the different people. Furthermore, if travelers and devotees start their tour early in the morning, they can visit all the places within a single day.
Summary
There are many religious places to visit in Pokhara, each with its own unique history and huge significance. The faiths and beliefs of millions of devotees are attached to these places. Myths surrounding the ancient temples, such as Tal Barahi Temple, Kedareshwar Mahadev Mani Temple, Bindyabasini Temple, and Akaladevi Temple, might never be verified. But many visitors feel a powerful surge of energy and a soothing experience during the visit. Critics credit the site’s picturesque locations and beautiful scenery for the experience, but the feeling itself is undeniable.
While it is normal to enjoy the trip to these places of interest in Pokhara, Nepal, do not forget to abide by local rules and guidelines. The same goes for any adventurous activities in Pokhra, such as the Hot Air Balloon Ride, Rafting, Kayaking, and Paragliding.
