Gupha Pokhari is a natural pond that lies in Gupha VDC of Sankhuwasabha district of Province No.1 in Eastern Nepal. Though the pond itself is not such a big, but the environment, the views, the climate and the adventurous routes are part of excitement in travel. The place itself is named after the pond.
Gupha Pokhari rests at an altitude of 2890m (9480 ft.). It has maximum depth of 1.5m (4 ft. 11 in.). It is protected area under IUCN, The World Conservation Union.
History:
The pond has also religious believes. It is considered as a holy pilgrimage site for Buddhists as well as Hindus. It is believed that the name “Gupha Pokhari” was given by the priests who used to meditate in the caves around the hills in the 20th century. “Gupha Pokhari” means Cave Pond, which is its new name. It was called “Siddha Marga Pokhari” before that.
Local people have a great faith that this pond grants our wishes, as believed for the Manakamana Temple in Gorkha.
Specialities:
After being overwhelmed with the immense beauty of Rhododendron, , other flowers, birds, animals and views of the Himalayas from Tinjure, Milke and Jaljale (TMJ). The breath catching beauty of Gupha Pokhari would be more heavenly. Although Tinjure lies in Tehrathum district, the pond is situated in Sankhuwasabha. It is one of the most popular spot that one should not miss in TMJ trail.
We can have spectacular views of Mt. Kanchanjungha, Mt. Kumbhakarna from TMJ as well as bridal view of Mt. Makalu from Gupha Pokhari and even Mt. Everest if the weather favoured. The roads to reach the destination are not so good, however they are adventurous. After you see the immense beauty of the Himalayas, clouds, hills, greenery and the Pokhari, you will forget every ups and downs of life for a while. We can feel like sitting above the clouds.
When to Visit:
Since the roads are off and also fogs occur, every time the view is not same. So the best time to visit Gupha Pokhari would be from February to May. And for enjoying the snowfall, November-December (winter season) would be the best.
How to Reach:
One can catch bus from Dharan, Dhankuta, Biratnagar or Kathmandu to reach to Basantapur. It is at about 2 hours of walk from Basantapur. It takes about 6 hours of ride and 15 minutes of walk from Itahari to Gupha Pokhari on Motorcycle.
Accommodations:
Though there are not enough hotels within the area, but home stays provide warm welcome. For Hotels and Lodges, we should get back to Basantapur.
To sink in the deep beauty of nature with adventure and cool weather, make your choice to” Gupha Pokhari”.
-Article written by: Anu Wasti for Land Nepal
