Siddha Pokhari (Ta Pukhu) | Bhaktapur

Information

Landmark: Siddha Pokhari (Ta Pukhu)
City: Bhaktapur
Country: Nepal
Continent: Asia

Siddha Pokhari (Ta Pukhu), Bhaktapur, Nepal, Asia

Siddha Pokhari (also known as Ta Pukhu) is a historic rectangular water reservoir located at the western entrance of Bhaktapur, Nepal.

Visual Characteristics

The pond is a large man-made tank measuring approximately 171 meters in length and 73 meters in width. It is enclosed by high brick walls and features stone steps leading down to the water. The site is characterized by its still, dark water reflecting the surrounding trees and the distant peaks of the Himalayas on clear days.

Location & Access Logistics

Located at Siddha Pokhari, Bhaktapur 44800, Nepal.

Transit: 5-minute walk from the Bhaktapur Main Gate and the bus stop for coaches arriving from Kathmandu.

Access: Open to the public.

Admission: Free.

Hours: Generally accessible from sunrise to 8:00 PM.

Historical Origin

The pond was constructed in the 15th century during the reign of King Yaksha Malla. It served as a vital water storage system for the city and a site for religious rituals. It underwent significant restoration in the 1980s and 1990s to preserve its structural integrity.

Key Highlights & Activities

Feeding Fish: A popular activity for locals and tourists; large schools of carp inhabit the pond.

Evening Walk: The wide paved perimeter is a primary social gathering spot for residents.

Hindu Shrines: Several small stone idols of Hindu and Buddhist deities are placed in niches around the walls.

Indra Jatra: During this festival, the pond is illuminated with oil lamps, and a decorated boat carries the idol of the goddess.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The perimeter is paved and lined with benches. Several small street-food stalls selling local snacks like chatpate and bara are located just outside the main gate. Public restrooms are available nearby. 5G/4G signals are stable.

Best Time to Visit

Late Afternoon: For the golden hour light and cooler temperatures.

Clear Winter Mornings: To view the reflection of the Himalayan range in the water.

Facts & Legends

A technical oddity is the ancient engineering of the water supply; the pond was traditionally fed by a system of "Raj Kulos" (royal canals) that brought water from the surrounding hills. Legend states that the pond is bottomless and inhabited by a mystical serpent protector (Naga) that ensures the city’s water supply never runs dry.