World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara

MonasteryPahad1 min read

In Nepali: विश्व शान्ति स्तूप, पोखरा · Also known as: Shanti Stupa · शान्ति स्तूप

World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara, Kaski
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
A gleaming white stupa on the forested ridge across Phewa Lake, with a view of the lake, city and Annapurnas.

The Shanti Stupa was built by monks of the Japanese Nipponzan Myohoji order, part of a series of peace pagodas around the world. Its white dome and golden Buddha statues look out over Phewa Lake to the Annapurna range.

The best way to arrive is by boat across the lake and a 45-minute climb through forest; you can also drive most of the way. Sunset from the terrace is lovely.

What to see and do

Walk around the stupa's terraces to see the four golden Buddha statues, each representing an event in the Buddha's life and gifted by a different country. Enjoy the view over Phewa Lake, Pokhara and the Annapurna range. Paths lead down to Devi's Fall and the Gupteshwor cave on the other side of the ridge.

Good to know

Remove shoes on the stupa, keep quiet, and do not climb the structure. Cafés near the top serve drinks and snacks. The boat-and-hike route takes 1.5–2 hours in total.

Quick answers

Where is World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara?
World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara is in Kaski district, Gandaki Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
What is the altitude of World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara?
About 1,100 m (3,609 ft) above sea level.
How much does it cost to visit World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara?
World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara is in or right next to Pokhara, so it is an easy day visit. Budget for a taxi there and back (about NPR 600–1,500, US$5–11) and meals (NPR 1,000–2,500, US$8–19 per person). If you stay in Pokhara, rooms cost about NPR 1,500 / US$11–NPR 4,500 / US$33 a night.
How many days do I need for World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara?
Half a day to a full day is enough; it is a short ride from central Pokhara.
Do I need a permit or ticket for World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara?
No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
When is the best time to visit World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara?
Year-round; sunset
How do I get to World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara?
Boat across Phewa, then a 45-minute walk. It is about 4 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
What is World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara called in Nepali?
विश्व शान्ति स्तूप, पोखरा
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