Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is a sacred and natural cave site located near Pokhara, Nepal. It is renowned for its stunning limestone formations, cavernous spaces, and a revered phallic symbol of Lord Shiva known as the Shivalinga. The cave has significant religious importance and attracts both pilgrims and tourists.
The Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is situated in the Pokhara Valley, close to the Davis Falls on the opposite side. It lies about 2 kilometers away from the Pokhara airport in Kaski district, Gandaki Province, Nepal.
Visitors can reach Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave by taking a local taxi or a bus from the main city of Pokhara. It is a short drive and easily accessible due to its proximity to the city center and its location next to the popular tourist spot, Davis Falls.
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave holds great religious significance in Hinduism as it houses a naturally formed Shivalinga, which is worshipped as a symbol of Lord Shiva. The cave is considered a holy pilgrimage site, especially during the festival of Shivaratri when thousands of devotees visit.
Inside the cave, tourists can see the Shivalinga and explore the large, echoing caverns with dramatic limestone formations. There's a waterfall within the cave that can be viewed from a certain point when water levels are not too high. The pathways and viewing platforms in the cave allow tourists to safely navigate and appreciate the geological features.
Yes, there is a small entrance fee required to visit Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave. The fee helps with the maintenance and management of the cave. The price may vary for foreigners and Nepali citizens, and it is recommended to check the latest fee before your visit.
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave generally opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. The opening hours may vary by season, and it is advisable to check the current timings in advance, as special hours can be observed on religious days and public holidays.
Basic facilities such as restrooms, small shops selling refreshments and religious paraphernalia, and parking spaces are usually available near Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave. Since it is a natural cave site, amenities are minimal, so visitors are encouraged to be prepared.
Visitors should be aware that the cave can be damp and slippery, so it is essential to wear appropriate footwear and be cautious when walking. The inside of the cave is dark, and the paths can be steep and narrow, so people with mobility issues should consider their ability to navigate the cave. Photography may be restricted in religious areas inside the cave.
The best time to visit Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is during the dry season, which runs from October to May. Monsoon season, from June to September, may result in flooding in the caves, making it more difficult and potentially unsafe to explore. Additionally, visitors during Shivaratri festival can experience the cave at its most vibrant, with many devotees and special events.