Kaskikot Viewpoint Nepal
Experience breathtaking Himalayan panoramas and ancient history atop Kaskikot hill, a former royal palace site near Pokhara.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear mountain views
Kaskikot Viewpoint Nepal
Best Time
Clear mountain views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking Himalayan panoramas and ancient history atop Kaskikot hill, a former royal palace site near Pokhara.
"The views from Kaskikot are absolutely stunning, offering an unforgettable panorama of the Annapurna range."
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
The climb to the temple involves stone stairs, so comfortable footwear is essential for the hike.
📸 Capture the views
Bring your camera or phone for drone shots and stunning panoramic photos of the Himalayas and valley.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Annapurna Range Panorama
Kaskikot Viewpoint
Witness a stunning, unobstructed view of the majestic Annapurna mountain range, stretching across the horizon.

Kaskikot Kalika Temple
Summit of Kaskikot hill
Explore the ancient temple of Goddess Durga, also known as 'Gupta Kalika,' with deep historical and religious roots.
Pokhara Valley Vista
Kaskikot Viewpoint
Gaze down upon the sprawling Pokhara valley, dotted with villages and Fewa Lake, offering a contrasting landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Views
Historical Significance & Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
The climb to the temple involves stone stairs, so comfortable footwear is essential for the hike.
📸 Capture the views
Bring your camera or phone for drone shots and stunning panoramic photos of the Himalayas and valley.
💧 Stay hydrated
Carry water, especially if hiking during warmer parts of the day, as there are limited facilities.
⏳ Allow ample time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to enjoy the views, explore the temple, and soak in the atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
The climb to the temple involves stone stairs, so comfortable footwear is essential for the hike.
📸 Capture the views
Bring your camera or phone for drone shots and stunning panoramic photos of the Himalayas and valley.
💧 Stay hydrated
Carry water, especially if hiking during warmer parts of the day, as there are limited facilities.
⏳ Allow ample time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to enjoy the views, explore the temple, and soak in the atmosphere.
🚗 Hire a taxi or bike
Easily accessible from Pokhara; taxis or rented bikes are common ways to reach the viewpoint.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kaskikot Viewpoint for its absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range and the Pokhara valley. The historical significance of the Kaskikot Kalika Temple and the rewarding hike up its stairs are also frequently highlighted as major draws. While the views are universally loved, some find the facilities at the top to be basic, and the climb can be strenuous for some.
"The Kaskikot Kalika Temple is a significant Hindu Temple located atop a hill in Kaskikot, near Pokhara. It holds immense religious, historical, and cultural importance of the Kaskikot and its surrounding.
The goddess of this temple is also known as "Gupta Kalika" (Hidden Kalika). according to local mythology suggests that a blaze of fire, originating from Alam Devi in Syangja, traveled through various locations before settling and hiding in Kaskikot thumko, with a mysterious voice declaring the goddess's wish to remain hidden there."
Ajay Shrestha
"Kali's earthy abode emerges from a massive rock. To the temple lead many stone stairs. Be ready to make some effort. On the way you can visit small temples and meditate, having incredible views of rocky mountains"
Dr Agnieszka Konopka
"Historical located on the northern side of Fewa lake, approximately at a distance of 18 km from Lakeside. where you can observe a wide view of pokhara valley and annapurna himalayas range along with outskirts villages and a high hills"
ROSHAN BHANDARI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kaskikot Viewpoint is located about 18 km north of Lakeside, Pokhara. You can hire a taxi or rent a motorbike for the approximately 30-minute journey. Some visitors also enjoy hiking from Sarangkot or Naudanda to Kaskikot.
Public transport options are limited and may require multiple transfers. Hiring a private vehicle like a taxi is generally the most convenient way to reach the viewpoint directly.
The road is generally paved and well-maintained for most of the way, making it accessible for cars and motorbikes. However, some sections might be a bit rough depending on recent weather.
Yes, it's a popular hiking route for those who enjoy trekking. The walk offers scenic views and takes a few hours, providing a more immersive experience of the local landscape.
The viewpoint is well-known, and most drivers will know the way. You can also use GPS navigation on your phone, searching for 'Kaskikot Viewpoint' or 'Kaskikot Kalika Temple'.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no specific entrance fee to access the viewpoint itself. However, there might be small charges for parking or if you visit specific facilities like resorts.
The temple is typically open from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to visit during daylight hours to enjoy the views and explore the temple safely.
No, advance booking is not required for Kaskikot Viewpoint. It's a natural attraction and a temple, so you can visit spontaneously.
As with most Hindu temples, it's respectful to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. You may need to remove your shoes before entering the temple premises.
While the viewpoint is accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting. The best views are during daylight hours.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with clear skies often revealing the Annapurna range. Golden hour provides a magical glow.
You'll get panoramic views of the Pokhara valley, Fewa Lake, and the magnificent Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges.
Drone videography is popular here, with many creators capturing aerial shots. However, always be mindful of local regulations and respect privacy.
The path leading up to the temple has several vantage points offering different perspectives of the valley and mountains. The temple itself is also photogenic.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant mountain peaks.
🎫 ⛰️ Hiking & Activities
Yes, reaching the Kaskikot Kalika Temple at the summit involves climbing a significant number of stone stairs, which is a moderate hike.
The climb up the stairs can take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to admire the views.
You can hike from Sarangkot to Kaskikot or vice versa, which is a longer trek offering diverse scenery.
Kaskikot is situated at an altitude of approximately 1700 meters (around 5577 feet) above sea level.
A moderate level of fitness is recommended for the stair climb. If you have mobility issues, consider if the ascent is suitable for you.
🍽️ 🏨 Accommodation & Dining
There are limited dining options directly at the viewpoint. Some small local eateries might be available, or you can find more choices back in Pokhara.
While there aren't many traditional hotels, resorts like ES Deurali Resort are located in Kaskikot, offering a peaceful stay with beautiful surroundings.
Expect local Nepali cuisine, such as dal bhat, momos, and other traditional dishes. If staying at a resort, they will likely offer a wider menu.
For a wider variety and more established dining experiences, Pokhara's Lakeside area is the best option. Kaskikot offers a more local, simpler culinary experience.
You can certainly pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning views. There are open areas where you can sit and relax.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, the panoramic views are sure to captivate everyone. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat. The open spaces at the top also allow kids to move around a bit after the climb.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Trekkers
This area is ideal for day hikes that combine physical activity with incredible natural beauty. The trails are generally well-defined, and the payoff is immense: breathtaking mountain vistas and a glimpse into Nepal's historical heartland.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Drone operators will find ample opportunities to capture stunning aerial footage of the valley and mountains. The historical temple also provides a unique cultural element to your shots. Remember to scout for different angles and compositions to make your content stand out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Roots of Kaskikot
The Kaskikot Kalika Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is central to the site's historical and spiritual significance. Local mythology tells of the goddess's wish to remain hidden here, emerging from a massive rock. The temple's presence atop the hill adds a layer of mystique and reverence to the already breathtaking location.
Visiting Kaskikot offers a chance to connect with Nepal's royal past while enjoying unparalleled natural beauty. The blend of historical ruins, a sacred temple, and panoramic vistas makes it a unique destination for travelers interested in culture and scenery alike.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Kaskikot
Many visitors utilize drone videography to capture sweeping aerial shots of the valley, the winding roads, and the majestic Himalayas. This perspective truly highlights the scale and beauty of the landscape. Remember to be mindful of any local drone regulations.
Beyond the grand vistas, don't miss the details: the ancient stone stairs leading to the temple, the intricate carvings if any remain, and the vibrant local life in the villages below. A wide-angle lens is ideal for the panoramic views, while a telephoto lens can bring distant mountain details closer.
The Kaskikot Hike and Temple Experience
Upon reaching the summit, you'll find the Kaskikot Kalika Temple, a place of deep religious and historical importance. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is known locally as 'Gupta Kalika' (Hidden Kalika). The unique setting, emerging from a massive rock, adds to its mystique.
Visitors often describe the experience as spiritual and meditative. The combination of the physical exertion of the hike, the serene atmosphere of the temple, and the overwhelming beauty of the surrounding landscape creates a truly memorable visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit