10 Most Famous Temples in Pokhara
Pokhara in Nepal is one of the most popular tourist destinations of the country. It is known for its scenic beauty and the serene atmosphere. Pokhara is also known for its cultural roots and is one of the most important cities in the country right next to Kathmandu, the capital. An ideal destination for all age groups, the city has everything from mountain ranges to lakes, markets and shrines. For those who wants to know the cities culture in close and know about its history, the temples are the best source. Here are the most famous temples in Pokhara that one must visit.
1. Tal Varahi Temple
The temple of Tal Varahi or Tal Barahi is located in Kaski district and is known popularly as the lake temple. Dedicated to goddess Durga, this temple stands alone in a small island in a section of Phewa Lake. While there are many stories associated with the temple, the most popular one among the people are that king Kulmandan Shah who was the first king of Kaski had a dream in which he saw the temple above the lake and the goddess asking him to construct it. He followed the instructions and build the temple.
2. Shanti Stupa
The World peace pagoda or Shanti Stupa is the first one that was build. Located on top of the Ananda hill, one has to do a bit of trekking in order to reach the temple. The temple was built in Buddhist pagoda style and is painted in a brilliant white. The temple gives a whole view of the Annapurna mountain ranges, Pokara city and Phewa lake. The Shanti Stupa was built just after world war 2 to inspire peace for all races and creeds.
3. Bindyabasini Temple
The temple is said to be one of the oldest temples in Nepal with the idol of goddess bhagavati. Located on a small hill hock, the temple provides and amazing view of the Himalayas as well. Legend has it that King Siddhi Narayan Shah bough the deity before the unification of the country. The temple is also known for the Hindu wedding ceremonies that happen over here.
4. Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
This cave temple is not just mysterious but attracts a large number of locals and tourists all around the year. The main god of worship here is Shiva with a stalagmite idol of Shiva Lingam as the main idol. With the entrance of the temple right across Devis falls, one might even have to crawl on all fours in some parts of the cave.
5. Radha Krishna Shanti Ashram Lame Al
The temple is located in Lekhnath and is a very spiritual place. The temple that was built in late 1008 by Sharan Devacharya Maharaj has also played an important role in making the Lekhnath municipality as a center for social and spiritual growth and well-being. The temple is quite famous among radha Krishna devotees and various cultural programs are conducted over here throughout the year.
6. Bhadrakali Temple
The temple was built in 1817 and was known as ‘Mudule Thumpko’. It is 230 levels above the sea level and is situated in serene and lush green forest. The place is not just famous for the temple but is actually a pictic spot too for its beautiful view and greenery around. There is a Buddhist monastery too near the temple which shows the harmony of religions.
7. Bhimsen Temple
The 200 year old temple is located in the old baazar and is built in the olden Newari style. The temple is one of a kind and stands right in midlle of the road. The Bhimsen temple was dedicated to the god of trade and commerce. The exterior of the temples has amazing carvings with windows and pillars.
8. Kedareshwar Mahadev Mani Temple
The temple is relatively new compared to the other temples around Pokhara. Dedicated to lord Shiva, the temple is located in Pokhra- Komagane friendship park. The temple is one of the larger temples made in the old Newari Pagoda design and looks quite similar to the temples seen around in Kathmandu.
9. Matepani Gumba
MatepaniGumba is a Buddhist Monastery in which there is a temple dedicated for Buddha. With eye catching wall paintings and a huge statue of Lord Buddha in meditation, the temple and its surroundings are a site to be seen. Unlike other monasteries, they are quite warm towards visitors irrespective of religion.
10. Akaladevi Temple
The Nepalese style temple is located in Lamachaur and has three tiered roofs build with cement and bricks. The temple is dedicated to Akaladevi and attracts various devotees despite it being a newly constructed temple. The festival of Teej is celebrated here with promt and glory.
