It’s true that not everyone can make it to Gosaikunda Lake, which requires four to five days of trekking. Nonetheless, numerous artificial ponds have been created across Nepal as a tribute to this legendary lake.
One such pond is Ticha Mahadev Pokhari, located in Nagarkot, Bhaktapur. And as you might have guessed—there’s a small temple here too, known as Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Temple.
I’m pretty sure you’ve overlooked this hidden gem during your countless visits to Nagarkot, right? But what if I told you it’s located right opposite the Nagarkot Geodetic Survey Tower?
Today, let’s uncover everything you need to know about Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Temple and Ticha Mahadev Pokhari.
Key Facts About Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Temple
| Location | Mahamanjushree Nagarkot, Bhaktapur, Bagmati Province |
| Mode of Transportation | Private Vehicle (Public Vehicle + Hiking) |
| Distance (from Jorpati) | 28 km approx. |
| Time to reach | 45 minutes approx. |
| Best Time to Visit | All seasons |
How to Reach Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Temple?
To reach Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Temple, you first need to get to Nagarkot. There are two main routes:
- Via Bhaktapur-Nagarkot Road: The shortest in distance but takes longer due to poor road conditions.
- Via Sankhu-Nagarkot Road: The fastest and smoothest route, offering a better riding experience thanks to its well-paved roads.
The choice is yours!
Once you reach the main roundabout, take the right turn (toward Nagarkot View Tower). About 50 to 100 meters ahead, you’ll find the entrance to Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Pokhari Temple, also known as Ticha Mahadev Pokhari.
To reach the holy temple and pond, take the stairs down.
And the best part? People of all ages can visit and experience this sacred place.
Why Only Few People Visit Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Temple?
A holy place dedicated to Lord Shiva, yet not a single person, besides the two of us, was there when we visited Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Temple. It was a bit disheartening to see.
Perhaps it’s because very few people know about this hidden gem. I’ve visited Nagarkot countless times, yet I only discovered this place on my last trip. That too, only because I happened to spot its name and grew curious about whether there was actually a Mahadev pond here.
Determined to find out, I personally asked a didi running a shop right at the entrance of the Nagarkot Geodetic Survey Tower. And of course, I couldn’t resist paying a visit.
The only thing I knew about Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Pokhari is the belief that Lord Mahadev made a stop here after swallowing the Kaalkut poison.
I could have learned more if there were gurus or pandits around, but unfortunately, there was no one.
Just the holy pond (which looked somewhat polluted), the sacred Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Temple, and a Shiva Ling park—resembling the one I came across during my hike to Gosai Sthan, another landmark built to honor Gosaikunda Lake.
Perhaps I visited at the wrong time and missed seeing Mahadev devotees. There must be a gathering here on Saturdays and major Mahadev-related festivals.
The saddest part? Ticha Mahadev Pokhari was discovered polluted over two decades back, and the situation remains unchanged to this day.
Nearby Attractions
Nagarkot is home to multiple attractions, making it a favorite getaway for many Kathmandu residents.
So, besides Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Temple, here’s a quick summary of other must-visit spots on this side of Bhaktapur district:
- Kattike Bhanjyang: A perfect stop along the Sankhu-Nagarkot road, featuring an open grassy space ideal for sunbathing, especially in winter.
- Nagarkot Geodetic View Tower: Witness breathtaking mountain views with sunrise in the early morning and sunset in the evening.
- Bojinee Dam: A green-colored lake with benches around–a peaceful dating spot!
- Buddha Peace Park: A tranquil space with a Buddha statue.
- Rani Jhula: Just a suspension bridge, but worth a quick stop as it’s a social media viral spot.
- Nearby Waterfalls: Muhan Pokhari, Nagarkot Waterfall, and Tudi Jharana
- Sallaghari Picnic Spot: A peaceful picnic area in Nagarkot, surrounded by tall pine trees that create an instantly calming vibe.
- Shree Pancha Mahalaxmi Temple: A stunning yet underrated temple in Changunarayan: one of the most beautifully designed temples I’ve seen. There’s also a hidden cave nearby.
Final Words
Let’s be honest—Nagarkot is often seen as one of the most romantic getaways near Kathmandu, not necessarily a spiritual retreat. But that doesn’t mean we should overlook holy sites like Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Temple.
Even the locals should take an active role in promoting this temple. That way, more Mahadev devotees will have a reason to visit Nagarkot beyond just its scenic beauty.
And if any of you have a deeper understanding of Ratnachundeshwor Mahadev Pokhari and Temple, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to share the story here on Travel Nepal Today.
Happy traveling to Bhaktapur!
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