Siddha Pokhari
A historic, serene pond in Bhaktapur offering tranquil walks, stunning reflections, and a glimpse into local life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and serene
Siddha Pokhari
Best Time
Peaceful and serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, serene pond in Bhaktapur offering tranquil walks, stunning reflections, and a glimpse into local life.
"A peaceful and historic pond in Bhaktapur, perfect for evening walks and relaxation."
🎯 Best for Photography
Capture stunning reflections, especially during sunrise/sunset. Golden hour is magical!
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls
Perfect for a relaxing walk, enjoying the cool breeze and local atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Reflective Waters
The pond itself
Witness stunning reflections of the sky and surrounding architecture on the calm surface.

Historic Ambiance
Around the pond
Explore ancient shrines and statues, feeling the centuries of history surrounding you.
Boating Serenity
On the pond
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride, offering a unique perspective of the serene landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best for Photography
Capture stunning reflections, especially during sunrise/sunset. Golden hour is magical!
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls
Perfect for a relaxing walk, enjoying the cool breeze and local atmosphere.
🛶 Enjoy a Boat Ride
Experience the tranquility from the water; rentals are available.
🍜 Taste Local Snacks
Sample traditional treats from vendors around the pond.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best for Photography
Capture stunning reflections, especially during sunrise/sunset. Golden hour is magical!
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls
Perfect for a relaxing walk, enjoying the cool breeze and local atmosphere.
🛶 Enjoy a Boat Ride
Experience the tranquility from the water; rentals are available.
🍜 Taste Local Snacks
Sample traditional treats from vendors around the pond.
🌧️ Rainy Day Charm
The pond is beautiful even in the rain, adding a unique mood.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Siddha Pokhari is widely praised as a peaceful and historic gem in Bhaktapur, offering a serene escape with beautiful reflections and a calm atmosphere. Visitors appreciate its cleanliness, cultural significance, and suitability for relaxation and photography. While generally tranquil, evenings can become moderately crowded, especially during local events.
"A peaceful and historic pond in Bhaktapur, perfect for evening walks and relaxation. The place is clean, calm, and offers a beautiful atmosphere with reflections on the water. A must-visit spot for nature and culture lovers."
Gita Rai
"Siddhapokhari, also known as "Ta Pukhu," is one of Bhaktapur's hidden gems, offering a serene retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. This historic pond, believed to have been built during the Malla period in the 15th century, holds cultural and historical significance.
What to Expect:
Peaceful Ambiance: The calm waters of the pond surrounded by stone-paved walkways and lush greenery make it a perfect spot for relaxation. The environment feels especially tranquil in the early mornings and evenings.
Cultural Vibes: Siddhapokhari is not just a scenic spot; it’s a part of Bhaktapur’s rich heritage. Locals often visit for spiritual reasons, and the area feels alive during festivals like Indra Jatra.
Great for Photography: The reflections of nearby temples and the surrounding landscape in the pond create picture-perfect moments.
Local Experience: It's a great place to observe local life, as people gather here for leisure, worship, and even feeding the fish in the pond."
Siwin Joshi
"I recently had the pleasure of visiting a serene and picturesque place nestled in a beautiful pond. It was truly a tranquil oasis in the heart of nature. The calm and peaceful ambiance instantly captivated my senses.
I highly recommend a visit to this enchanting pond. It is a hidden gem that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression and provide a much-needed respite from the chaos of everyday life. Venture into this peaceful haven, and you will not be disappointed."
Ri_ Ley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Siddha Pokhari is located in Sallaghari, a short distance from Bhaktapur Durbar Square. You can take a local taxi or a short walk (about 15-20 minutes) to reach the pond. Some visitors mention it's a pleasant walk, especially if you enjoy exploring the city's outskirts.
Yes, local buses and microbuses frequently travel towards Sallaghari from Bhaktapur city center, making it accessible via public transport. Ask for the 'Siddha Pokhari' stop.
From Kathmandu, you can take a bus or taxi to Bhaktapur. Once in Bhaktapur, follow the directions above to reach Siddha Pokhari. The journey from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur takes about 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic.
Limited parking is usually available near the pond, especially for those arriving by private vehicle. However, it can get busy during peak hours.
Absolutely! It offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling Durbar Square and is a great spot for relaxation and photography. Many visitors include it as part of their Bhaktapur exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entry fee to visit Siddha Pokhari itself, making it a free and accessible attraction. However, boat rentals will incur a separate charge.
Siddha Pokhari is typically open from early morning until late evening, allowing visitors to enjoy it at different times of the day. It's a public space, so hours are quite flexible.
While the area is generally safe, it's best to visit during daylight or early evening hours for the full experience and better visibility. Some parts might be dimly lit after dark.
No advance booking is required as there is no entry fee. You can visit spontaneously.
Siddha Pokhari is a public pond and is generally open every day of the year. It might be more crowded during local festivals.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most magical light for photography, with beautiful reflections on the water. Evenings can be vibrant with the sunset sky.
Expect stunning landscape shots with reflections, cultural elements like shrines, local life, and vibrant skies. It's a great spot for both nature and cultural photography.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in Nepal, especially around heritage sites. It's advisable to check local rules or avoid using drones to prevent any issues.
Yes, many visitors capture beautiful moments with their smartphones. The natural beauty and reflections make it photogenic.
The entire perimeter of the pond offers good vantage points. Walking around the pond allows you to find unique angles and compositions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Siddha Pokhari itself is more of a relaxation spot, there are local vendors around the pond selling snacks and refreshments. For full meals, you'll find numerous eateries in the main Bhaktapur city area.
Vendors typically offer traditional Nepali snacks like 'chatamari', 'bara', 'pani puri', and local tea. It's a great way to experience local flavors.
Picnicking is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful of the environment and dispose of your trash properly. Enjoying snacks by the pond is a common activity.
Most local snacks sold by vendors are vegetarian-friendly. For more extensive vegetarian options, explore the restaurants in Bhaktapur city.
Yes, trying local snacks from the vendors is part of the experience and offers authentic flavors. Just ensure they look clean and well-prepared.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy peaceful walks, photography, boating, feeding the fish, observing local life, and simply relaxing by the water.
Yes, children can enjoy the open space, watching the fish, and a gentle boat ride. It's a safe and pleasant environment for families.
A visit can range from 1-2 hours for a leisurely stroll and some photos, to longer if you plan to enjoy boating or simply relax.
Public restrooms might be available nearby, but they can be basic. It's advisable to use facilities before or after your visit if you have specific needs.
The pathways around the pond are mostly paved, but some areas might have uneven surfaces. It's generally manageable for most, but caution is advised.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
A gentle boat ride is also a highlight for kids, offering a bit of adventure in a calm setting. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place for families to unwind and enjoy some quality time together away from the busier tourist spots. Pack some snacks or try the local treats from vendors for a complete family outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
It's a place to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature and oneself. The historical undertones and the gentle sounds of water create a calming atmosphere that many find rejuvenating. You can spend hours here without feeling rushed, making it a perfect solo excursion.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
Beyond reflections, the ancient shrines, statues, and the surrounding traditional architecture provide rich subjects for cultural and architectural photography. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day offers constantly changing visual narratives. Don't miss the vibrant colors, especially after a rain shower.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Siddha Pokhari
The pond's design, with its stone-paved walkways and surrounding greenery, creates a tranquil environment that has been cherished for centuries. It serves as a vital part of Bhaktapur's urban landscape, offering a serene escape from the bustling city life. The presence of various statues and shrines dedicated to deities around the pond further enhances its spiritual aura, making it a place for contemplation and worship.
Beyond its historical and religious value, Siddha Pokhari is also a popular spot for recreation. Visitors often engage in boating, feeding the fish, and simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance. The reflections of the sky and surrounding structures on its calm waters make it a photographer's delight, capturing the essence of Bhaktapur's timeless beauty.
Experiencing Siddha Pokhari: A Photographer's Paradise
Beyond the reflections, the pond is dotted with ancient statues and small shrines, adding a layer of cultural depth to your shots. Capturing the interplay of light and shadow on these historical elements can yield dramatic and evocative images. The vibrant green of the surrounding foliage, especially after rain, adds a fresh, lively contrast to the ancient stone structures.
Visitors often find joy in photographing the local life around the pond – people engaged in prayer, children playing, or vendors selling their wares. The serene atmosphere, combined with the picturesque setting, makes it easy to capture candid moments and the authentic spirit of Bhaktapur. Don't forget to experiment with different angles, perhaps from a boat, to get unique perspectives.
Boating and Local Delights at Siddha Pokhari
Complementing the serene environment are the local vendors who line the pond's edge. They offer a delightful array of traditional Nepali snacks and refreshments. Sampling these local treats, such as 'pani puri', 'chatamari', or a warm cup of 'chiya' (tea), is an integral part of the Siddha Pokhari experience. It’s a chance to taste authentic flavors while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Many visitors find immense pleasure in simply sitting by the pond, enjoying these local snacks, and observing the gentle rhythm of life. It’s a simple yet profound way to connect with the local culture and appreciate the peaceful ambiance that Siddha Pokhari offers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit