Pokhara is a beautiful city located in the lap of the Himalayas. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal. Known for its serene lakes, scenic views, and adventure sports, Pokhara has something to offer to every type of traveler. One of the major attractions in Pokhara is Pumdikot, a hill located on the eastern side of the city.
Pumdikot offers a unique combination of spiritual and scenic delights. This makes it a must-visit destination for tourists interested in religious tourism and day hikes.
Pumdikot is a popular destination for day hikes and is easily accessible from Lakeside Pokhara. The hike up the hill is not very challenging and can be completed in a few hours. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and interact with the locals to get a glimpse of the local culture.
Pumdikot Pokhara trekking route
The Pumdikot trek is a relatively short but scenic trek that starts from Bijayapur Khola. It is located about a 30-minute drive from Pokhara. The trek is best done during the autumn season when the weather is dry and sunny, and the skies are clear. This provides an excellent view of the mountains and landscapes around Pumdikot.
On the first day of the trek, you’ll begin by ascending uphill for about 3 hours through lush green forests, terraced fields, and local villages. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
The final destination for the day is Pumdikot. It is a small hill station that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Here, you can spend the night in a basic teahouse and enjoy the views of the sunset and sunrise.
On the second day of the trek, you’ll start by descending downhill from Pumdikot. You’ll pass through more picturesque villages and terraced fields.
After about 3 hours of trekking, you’ll reach the village of Thulakot. It offers stunning views of the Fewa Lake and Pokhara Valley. From here, the trek descends further down to the Lakeside area of Pokhara. You can take a well-deserved rest and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
While the Pumdikot trek is relatively easy and can be completed by beginners. It is essential to have a good level of fitness and prepare for the high altitude as you’ll be trekking up to 1,600 meters from sea level.
Similarly, the trek can be completed in two days, making it an ideal option for those who have limited time in Nepal. However, it’s recommended to hire a guide to ensure your safety and to make the most out of your trekking experience.
What is Pumdikot famous for?
There are several things that Pumdikot is famous for, including:
Trekking
Pumdikot is located near the popular trekking destination of the Annapurna Base Camp. This makes it a great starting point for trekkers. The hiking trail to Pumdikot is steep and rocky, but the views along the way are worth the effort. It usually takes about 3-4 hours to reach the top, depending on your pace and fitness level.
Natural beauty
The village is situated on a hill. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The nearby forests and waterfalls also make it a great place for nature lovers. There are several rest areas along the route where you may pause and take in the view.
Culture and heritage
Pumdikot is home to several temples and shrines, including the Pumdikot Bhagwati Temple. It is dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati. The village’s unique Newari architecture is another thing that sets it apart.
Agriculture
The area around Pumdikot is fertile and supports a thriving agriculture industry, with rice, wheat, and corn being the main crops. As you ascend, you’ll see terraced rice fields, traditional Nepalese houses, and lush green forests.
Overall, Pumdikot is a beautiful and culturally rich village that offers visitors a glimpse into rural Nepali life.
What is the best time to visit Pumdikot Pokhara?
The best time to visit Pumdikot in Pokhara is during the autumn season, which is from September to November. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, and the skies are usually clear.
This provides excellent views of the mountains and landscapes around Pumdikot. The temperature is also mild and comfortable, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor activities.
In contrast, the winter months (December to February) can be quite cold, with occasional snowfall. This may make the trek difficult. The spring season (March to May) is also a good time to visit, but it can be quite busy due to the high number of tourists.
The summer months (June to August) are generally not the best for trekking in the region as the monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and low visibility. This makes it difficult to enjoy the scenic beauty of Pumdikot.
What will you come across in Pumdikot Pokhara?
Once you reach the summit of Pumdikot, you’ll be greeted with stunning panoramic views of Pokhara city and the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Annapurna range, including the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak.
The view of the Phewa Lake from the top is also breathtaking. There’s a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at the summit, where you can offer prayers and seek blessings. The Pumdikot Shiva statue and the 108 Shiva Lingas are other major attractions here.
Aside from the religious significance, Pumdikot is also a popular tourist destination due to its stunning views and natural beauty. The World Peace Pagoda, which is a model of Mount Sumeru featuring the four-faced Buddha, is another attraction located nearby.
The view tower is another popular spot where you can get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding green hills and valleys.
For those interested in religious tourism, Pumdikot is a must-visit destination. The Shiva statue and the 108 Shiva Lingas are believed to have spiritual significance, and many devotees visit the place to offer prayers and seek blessings.
The Shiva Damaru, a musical instrument associated with Lord Shiva, is also present on the hill and adds to the spiritual aura of the place.
Pumdikot Shiva statue
The Pumdikot Shiva statue is a massive 51 feet tall and is the second Shiva statue in Nepal. It lies on a platform above the temple, and you can see it from a distance as you approach the summit.
The Lord Shiva statue is intricately carved and adorned with various symbols and ornaments. The 108 Shiva Lingas are located on the same platform as the statue, arranged in a circular pattern. Each linga represents a different manifestation of Lord Shiva and is sacred to devotees.
Apart from the Shiva statue and the scenic views, Pumdikot is also home to the World Peace Pagoda. The pagoda is a model of Mount Sumeru featuring Buddha and is a symbol of peace and unity. The pagoda offers panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Phewa lake, and Pokhara city.
The view tower on the hill is another major attraction and offers a bird’s eye view of the green hills and valleys.
The statue is a magnificent sight to behold and attracts a large number of devotees and tourists alike. The statue has 108 Shiva Lingas around it, adding to the spiritual significance of the place. The view of Pokhara city from the top of Pumdikot is breathtaking and is a major attraction for visitors.
FAQs
What is Pumdikot Pokhara Trek in Nepal?
Pumdikot Pokhara Trek is a scenic trekking route that offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges in Nepal. The trek is relatively short and can be completed in around 5-6 days.
This makes it perfect for those who want to experience trekking in Nepal without committing to a longer expedition.
How difficult is the Pumdikot Pokhara Trek?
The Pumdikot Pokhara Trek is a moderate trek, with some steep uphill and downhill sections. However, it is not too challenging and can be completed by trekkers of all skill levels, including beginners. The trek usually involves around 5-6 hours of walking per day.
What is the best time to do the Pumdikot Pokhara Trek?
The best time to do the Pumdikot Pokhara Trek is from September to November and from March to May, as these months offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and dry weather conditions. However, the trek can be done throughout the year, except for the monsoon season from June to August.
What are the highlights of the Pumdikot Pokhara Trek?
The Pumdikot Pokhara Trek offers trekkers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as the beautiful Phewa Lake in Pokhara. Along the way, trekkers will also pass through charming villages, terraced fields, and rhododendron forests. The trek also offers the opportunity to experience Nepalese culture and hospitality.
Do I need a guide or porter for the Pumdikot Pokhara Trek?
While it is not mandatory to have a guide or porter for the Pumdikot Pokhara Trek, it is highly recommended. A guide can help with navigation and provide insights into the local culture and history. Also, a porter can carry your luggage, allowing you to enjoy the trek without the burden of a heavy backpack.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pumdikot Pokhara is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in religious tourism or seeking a day hike with a magnificent view. The hike to the summit is challenging but rewarding, and the panoramic views from the top are breathtaking.
The Pumdikot Shiva statue and the 108 Shiva Lingas add to the religious significance of the place. The World Peace Pagoda and view tower offer additional attractions. Whether you’re a local or a foreign tourist, Pumdikot Pokhara is definitely worth a visit.
Pumdikot Pokhara is a unique destination that offers a combination of spiritual and scenic delights. The Pumdikot Shiva Statue, the World Peace Pagoda, and the view tower are major attractions. It offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding hills.
The hill is easily accessible from Lakeside Pokhara and is a popular destination for day hikes. Pumdikot is a must-visit destination for those interested in religious tourism. It is for sure that it will leave visitors with a sense of peace and tranquility.
