Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave | Pokhara

Information

Landmark: Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave
City: Pokhara
Country: Nepal
Continent: Asia

Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave, Pokhara, Nepal, Asia

Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is a prominent subterranean religious and geological site located in the Chorepatan district of Pokhara, Nepal. It is recognized as one of the longest caves in Nepal, extending approximately 2,950 meters.

Visual Characteristics

The cave system is divided into two primary sections. The first section contains a sacred Shiva Lingam housed within a naturally formed limestone chamber. The second, deeper section leads to a viewing point directly behind the subterranean base of Devi's Fall. The interior is characterized by stalactite and stalagmite formations, humid conditions, and artificial lighting that illuminates the narrow stone passages.

Location & Access Logistics

The cave is situated at Chorepatan, Pokhara 33700, directly opposite the entrance to Devi's Fall. It is approximately 2km southwest of the Pokhara Domestic Airport. Access is via a spiral concrete staircase that descends from the street-level entrance. Taxis, local buses, and private vehicles have direct access to the site's main gate.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The cave was discovered in the 16th century by local residents and officially opened to the public in 1992. Geologically, it is a karst cave formed by the chemical erosion of limestone and conglomerate rocks by the Pardi Khola river. The cave functions as a drainage system for the water originating from Phewa Lake that disappears at Devi's Fall.

Key Highlights & Activities

Religious Pilgrimage: Visiting the shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is a major site for devotees during the Maha Shivaratri festival.

Underground Waterfall Observation: Standing at the end of the second chamber to witness the high-velocity water of Devi's Fall cascading into the underground pool.

Geological Exploration: Observing the intricate natural patterns and mineral deposits on the cave walls and ceilings.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The entrance complex is well-developed, featuring a ticket counter, public restrooms, and a paved courtyard. A row of shops selling religious items, local handicrafts, and snacks is located along the entrance path. 4G cellular signal is stable at the entrance but is lost once deep inside the cave. The steps and passages can be slippery; sturdy footwear is required.

Best Time to Visit

The waterfall inside the cave is most powerful during the monsoon season (June to September), though the second chamber is sometimes closed during peak flooding for safety. For clear exploration of the rock formations, the post-monsoon months (October to November) are optimal. The cave is open daily from 06:00 to 18:00.

Facts & Legends

Local tradition holds that the cave was used for meditation by ancient sages. The Shiva Lingam within the cave is believed to be a "Swayambhu" (self-manifested) stone. It is structurally unique because it sits directly beneath the path of a major waterfall, creating a rare vertical geological connection.