Sabha Pokhari is a pond of immense natural and religious value located at 4,200 meters above sea level and resides at the foot of the Mt. Makalu and the Lumba Sumba Hill in Sankhuwasabha, Nepal. The pond is about 200 meters long and 100 meters wide. It is believed that the creation of Brahma continues in this region as new species of plants and animals are found almost every year.
One Hindu myth alluding to this pond states that a renown practitioner of Penance during Dwapar Yuga, (one four eras mentioned in Hindu religion), “Byas Rishi” called for a meeting of 8800 sages in the middle of the pond and recited and taught his great preaching and wisdom to these sages. Due to this reason, the name Sabha Pokhari was assigned to his blessed pond (Sabha meaning meeting and Pokhari meaning Pond). The sage’s mythical speech and teaching is said to have been delivered from a spot which is marked in the pond.It is strongly believed that those who bathe in this pond will have their wishes granted& their cherished desires fulfilled, and those couples who are yet to have a child will give birth after taking a holy bath here. This place is crowded with visitors from Nag Panchami to Janai Purnima.
Along with its religious significance, Sabha Pokhari is a wonderful trekking destination as well. The route starts from Khandbari Bazaar and passes through extremely beautiful landscapes of Bhankharka, Mangmaya, Mangsima, & khongrana dada. This place also offers a great panoramic view of Mt. Makalu on North and Mt. Kanchenjunga on the eastern part. One can also reach here from Tehrathum by trekking through Chauki, Gufa Pokhari and Milke. Twenty-five different species of rhododendron is found in the milke area. Yak and sheep can be seen grazing on green hills and the cinematic view of snow-capped mountains is the major source of attraction for tourists.
-Article written by: Ujjwal Bhetwal for Land Nepal
