Sightseeing · Bhaktapur
Siddha Pokhari
Bhaktapur's great rectangular pond — calm water, shrines and mountain reflections by the city gate.
- Address
- Siddha Pokhari, Bhaktapur 44800
Siddha Pokhari — also called Ta Pokhari — is the great rectangular pond that greets visitors near the western entrance to Bhaktapur. Ringed by stone embankments, leafy trees and small shrines, it offers a calm, open counterpoint to the dense brick lanes of the old town, and on still mornings its surface turns into a near-perfect mirror.
What to see
The pond is large and formal, its straight stone-stepped banks descending to the water on every side. Walk the perimeter for the classic view: the city's rooftops and temple spires reflected in the water, and — on the clearest autumn and winter days — distant Himalayan peaks rising beyond. Small shrines and statues stand around the edges, and the surrounding green is a favourite gathering place for locals in the cooler hours. There is a gentle, lived-in atmosphere here that makes it a good place to slow down and watch daily life.
History
Water tanks like Siddha Pokhari were a central feature of Newar town planning, providing for ritual, irrigation and the recharge of the valley's stone-spout (hiti) systems. Siddha Pokhari dates to the medieval period of Bhaktapur's growth under the Malla kings, when the city was laid out with ponds, courtyards and temples as integrated public works. Local legends attach various stories to its waters, and like many of the valley's historic tanks it has been periodically cleaned and restored to keep it filled.
How to visit
Siddha Pokhari is positioned near the western city gate and bus area, so it is one of the first things many travellers reach when arriving from Kathmandu. It usually falls within Bhaktapur's ticketed heritage zone, so plan to pay the foreigner entry fee at the gate. The pondside is open and free to walk around, and a full loop takes only a few minutes.
Tips
- Come at sunrise or sunset for the best reflections and softest light.
- Visit after a clear-sky spell in autumn or winter for a chance of mountain reflections.
- Use it as a bookend — an easy first stop on arrival or a last calm pause before you leave.
- Walk on into the old town toward Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Taumadhi Square, only a short distance east.
For the full picture, browse the top things to do in Bhaktapur and our guide to getting to Bhaktapur.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Siddha Pokhari in Bhaktapur?+
Siddha Pokhari, also known as Ta Pokhari, is a large rectangular water tank near the western entrance to Bhaktapur. Built in the medieval period, it is one of the city's biggest historic ponds and a peaceful spot framed by stone embankments, trees and small shrines.
Where is Siddha Pokhari?+
It sits just outside the main old-town core, close to the city's western gate and bus area. Many visitors pass it on the way into Bhaktapur, making it an easy first or last stop on a walk through town.
Can you see mountains from Siddha Pokhari?+
On clear mornings, the still water can mirror the sky and, when visibility is good, distant Himalayan peaks to the north. Autumn and winter, after rain has cleared the air, give the best chance of mountain reflections.
Is there an entry fee for Siddha Pokhari?+
There is no separate ticket for the pond itself. However, as it lies within Bhaktapur's heritage area, foreign visitors generally pay the city's entry fee at the gates when entering the old town.
Is Siddha Pokhari worth visiting?+
Yes, especially for a quiet moment away from the busier squares. It is best at sunrise or sunset for reflections and atmosphere, and pairs naturally with a walk to Durbar and Taumadhi Squares nearby.
