With a length of almost 2,000 meters, the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave (also known as Bhalu Dulo in Nepali) is considered one of Nepal’s longest caves which lies in the most beautiful city of Nepal, Pokhara. The cave stands across Davi’s fall, and the sound of thunderous water may be heard within. According to local legend, the cave was found in the 16th century. There were no modern-day decorations back then, as there are now. The cave’s main gate was just completed in 1991 AD. The water of Davis Fall flows via Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, which is located near Davis Fall. While it is advised that you bring your own torchlight for your tour within the cave, the administration has placed a suitable light. It is advised that you have a backup power supply because a power outage might cause problems during your trip.
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is historically significant since it is where pilgrims pray Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva, Parvati, Saraswati, and Nageshwor are among the gods. Non-Nepalis must purchase a Rs 100 fee to visit the cave. Inside the cave, there is a Shiva Temple where photographing is absolutely banned and security guards are present. One of the largest Shiva Lingas in the world, where worshippers pay devotion to Lord Shiva, is the main attraction of this cave. The cave is a renowned pilgrimage destination in Nepal, and then during festivals like Chaite Dashain and Maha Shivaratri, it attracts a large audience. Calcium carbonate deposition and adjacent limestone make up the cave’s interior. Rare minerals and elements can be found as you wander the underground grounds.
Caves always seem to be mysterious, but the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is unique in that it also has a religious background. The cave’s tranquil ambiance will certainly calm your senses and allow you to reflect for a while. It is a fantastic spot to spend some calm time in the middle of the city’s normal hustle and bustle. The cave’s outside is decorated with a massive brown arch, and when you enter it, there are several souvenir stores if you want to buy something, a statue of Lord Vishnu in a sleeping pose, and a concrete balcony and spiral staircase directly in front of the ticket desk. As you descend, you’ll notice pasted artworks, some of which are considered sexual by some. This is adapted from the other paintings depicting the Kathmandu valley.
How to get there: The Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is located on the side of the Siddhartha Highway and may be reached from Pokhara’s Dam side. The cave is located on the other side of the Davis Falls. Many tourists include a visit to the Gupteshwor Mahadev cave in their Pokhara itinerary.
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is a famous educational trip for students as well as an Indian pilgrimage to Muktinath Temple. It is suggested that you visit David Fall and Cave at least once during your trip. Domestic and foreign tourists used to flock to this subterranean shrine 365 days a year. It is recommended that you take it easy when visiting Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave since the route is slick owing to the drip of a waterfall from the fissure. Due to the poor light and damp tight alleys, this location is not advised for senior citizens or children. The wow element you may encounter on this day tour is the waterfall at the cave’s conclusion. Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is a good place to spend your time in Pokhara if you have a few of hours to spare.
When visiting the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave in Pokhara, there is a lot to see and learn. You must keep in mind that it is still in the early stages of development, and you may need to decrease your expectations. If you’re visiting one of these caves for the first time, it’s a good idea to learn about the cave’s history and secrets. If you really are experiencing the visit of Pokhara for the very first time, we recommend that you include a visit to the cave premises in your trip to the World Peace Pagoda or other Pokhara excursions. The Davis Falls should be seen first, followed by the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, and then the World Peace Pagoda. To prevent crowds, you should avoid visiting the cave on holidays and special events. The Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is a sensory experience that can only be obtained by exploring it.
-By: Saru Niraula for Land Nepal
