Introduction
Pokhara, regarded as the “Gateway to the Himalayas,” is one of the most picturesque cities in Nepal. With the stunning view of mountains, serene lakes, and green landscapes, Pokhara is a heaven for travelers. While popular with tourists for Phewa Lake and Sarangkot, it also conceals a world of natural wonders beneath its surface and within its dense forests involving splendid waterfalls and sinister caves just waiting to be explored.
For adventure junkies and nature enthusiasts, such hidden palaces really offer an exciting experience apart from the usual tourist attractions. So, if planning a trip from Gorakhpur, opting for a Pokhara tour package from Gorakhpur is just the perfect travel option to enjoy and ensure an effortless journey bordering these charming sites.
Hidden Waterfalls and Caves in Pokhara
- Devi’s Fall (Patalo Chhango)—The Disappearing Wonder
About 2 km south of Lakeside in Pokhara, Devi’s Fall is one of the most unique waterfalls in the valley. To add to the common definition of waterfalls that flow into rivers or lakes is this one that disappears underground into a deep tunnel, thus making it quite a mesmerizing sight. Visiting this place is quite best during the monsoon season when the waterfall is at its strongest lashing down to a gushing sound with much mist rising from the fall. The sound of rushing water and the mist that rises from the fall gives it an added sense of awe and wonder.Lore has it that the name “Devi’s Fall” comes from a Swiss tourist who swam in this waterfall and drowned. Since then the site has been a symbol of beauty and mystery. The place has lush green surrounding landscapes, making it a great place for photography and recreation. This site is meant for individuals looking for beauty and a bit of history. - Gupteshwor Cave: A Sacred Underground Sanctuary
Just a few paces from Devi’s Fall is the well-known limestone cave of Gupteshwor, which holds religious importance. There is another temple inside the Gupteshwor cave, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, that is worth seeing. While the interior of the cave is really decorated with unique examples of stalactites and stalagmites, a section of Devi’s Fall runs through it, enhancing the atmosphere of mystery.The natural beauty of this cave, along with its series of temples shaded with trees, forms a space of great spiritual importance. Pilgrims and adventure seekers alike flock to the cave to appreciate the natural beauty and the spiritual essence of the site. It also heightens the spiritual atmosphere, with worshippers flocking in to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. - Mahendra Cave: The Underground Marvel-
Mahendra Cave lies 8 km away from the Lakeside. It is another unnoticed treasure sought after by many. Ancient stalactites and stalagmites abound within this cave, casting a magical underground fold. Quite unlike other commercial caves, Mahendra Cave retains its natural untouch beauty that draws one’s attention. The cave is named after the King Mahendra of Nepal and is said to house bats and other small creatures. One must come with a flashlight because the darkness of the cave prevails, punctuated only by some faint illumination here and there. Mahendra Cave is an adventure that provides an authentic caving experience perfect for the wild-at-heart. The mystery starts there as you overcome narrow paths and uneven floors. - Bat Cave (Chhepal) –
The Thrill Seeker’s ParadiseFor a spine-chilling adventure, the Bat Cave near Chhepal village is the perfect destination. True to its name, this cave is home to thousands of bats hanging from the ceiling. The cave’s narrow passages make the journey even more thrilling, requiring visitors to crawl through certain sections.The highlight of the Bat Cave experience is the daring exit. Unlike other caves with standard pathways, this one requires visitors to squeeze through a narrow opening at the end, adding an element of challenge. It’s an adrenaline-pumping experience that adventure enthusiasts should not miss. As you crawl through the narrow, dark corridors, the sound of bats fluttering overhead adds to the atmosphere of suspense and excitement. - Begnas Lake Waterfalls – A Hidden Oasis-
While most tourists flock to Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake remains a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by lush green hills, the lake is home to several hidden waterfalls that cascade down into its pristine waters. The waterfalls are relatively unexplored, making them perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude.Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake, hiking through the nearby hills, or simply sitting by the waterfalls, taking in the serene beauty. The surrounding forest adds to the tranquility of the area, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection. The views from the lake are magnificent, offering visitors a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of Pokhara in a more secluded and peaceful setting. - Rupa Lake and Its Waterfalls – A Nature Lover’s Dream
Situated a little further from Pokhara, Rupa Lake is another tranquil destination known for its natural beauty. The area surrounding the lake features multiple small waterfalls hidden within dense forests. These cascading falls add to the charm of Rupa Lake, making it a perfect place for photography and meditation. Rupa Lake is also famous for bird-watching, as it attracts a variety of migratory birds. With fewer tourists visiting this spot, it remains an untouched paradise for those who prefer peaceful and scenic locations. The quiet atmosphere, combined with the surrounding greenery, makes Rupa Lake a haven for those looking to connect with nature. The waterfalls in this area are a wonderful sight, especially in the monsoon season when the flow of water is at its peak.
Why Explore These Hidden Gems?
- Unparalleled Natural Beauty: These hidden waterfalls and caves offer an escape from the usual crowded tourist spots, letting visitors immerse themselves in nature.
- Adventure & Thrill: From crawling through narrow cave passages to hiking along waterfalls, the experiences are perfect for adrenaline junkies.
- Spiritual Connection: Places like Gupteshwor Cave provide a unique blend of adventure and spirituality.
- Photography Opportunities: The untouched beauty of these locations makes them ideal for stunning photographs.
How to Reach Pokhara from Gorakhpur?
Pokhara is well-connected to Gorakhpur, India, making it a convenient destination for Indian travelers. Here are the best ways to reach Pokhara:
- By Road: A road trip from Gorakhpur to Pokhara takes around 7-8 hours via Sunauli border. Private taxis, buses, and rental cars are available for a comfortable journey.
- By Air: The nearest airport in Nepal is Pokhara International Airport. However, travelers from Gorakhpur can first fly to Kathmandu and then take a domestic flight to Pokhara.
- By Train & Road Combo: You can take a train to Gorakhpur and then continue by road to Pokhara.
For a hassle-free experience, booking a Pokhara tour package from Gorakhpur ensures smooth travel, accommodation, and guided exploration of these hidden gems.
Conclusion
Pokhara is a treasure trove of natural wonders, offering an incredible blend of adventure and serenity. From the mysterious Devi’s Fall and Gupteshwor Cave to the thrilling Bat Cave and tranquil Begnas Lake waterfalls, these hidden spots promise unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a spiritual traveler, Pokhara’s waterfalls and caves will leave you mesmerized. Plan your trip today and uncover the hidden beauty of Nepal’s most enchanting city!
Author Bio:
Ashwani is a technical content writer at Cloudwalks, a provider of QuickBooks Enterprise hosting services. With a rich background in the accounting sector, he merges his accounting expertise with a passion for technology, focusing on topics like cloud accounting, cybersecurity, and accounting software.