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World Peace Pagoda
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Landmark
The World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa) in Pokhara is an impressive Buddhist monument that sits majestically atop Anadu Hill, offering panoramic views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna mountain range. Built by monks from the Japanese Nipponzan-Myōhōji movement as a symbol of peace, it is one of about 80 such pagodas worldwide. The brilliant white stupa has two tiers accessible to visitors. Four statues of Buddha, representing important moments of his life, his birth in Lumbini, his enlightenment in Bodhgaya, his first sermon in Sarnath, and his death in Kushinagar, adorn the pagoda. The site was inaugurated on October 30, 1999, and is not only a religious center but also a popular destination for tourists who enjoy the tranquility and spectacular views.
- Location: Nepal
- Top sights: Machhapuchhre view point · Pumdi Bhumdi View Tower · view to pokhara (Tiju ko Chautara)
- Nearby: Tilicho Lake (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 14 | 18 | 23 | 25 | 25 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 19 | 16 | 12 |
| Rain mm | 16 | 23 | 27 | 38 | 103 | 245 | 416 | 306 | 221 | 69 | 3 | 6 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The World Peace Pagoda is an active Buddhist monument and can be visited both inside and outside. Entry inside is typically allowed during opening hours.
Typical hours
The pagoda is usually open from sunrise to sunset. As a religious structure, hours may vary on holidays.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the grounds, and inside it is usually permitted quietly and respectfully. Avoid flash during prayers.
Time needed
Allow about 45 minutes to an hour to visit the pagoda and surrounding gardens. Enjoy the view of the Phewa Valley as well.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a boat ride on Phewa Lake or a stroll in Pokhara. A hiking trail leads down from the hill to the city.
Getting there
The pagoda is on Anadu Hill, reachable on foot from Pokhara (about 30-45 minutes). Alternatively, you can take a taxi to the foot of the hill.
Insider tip
Visit the pagoda late afternoon for a calmer atmosphere and good light. Bring insect repellent as there may be mosquitoes.
Geography
Facts
- Location: Anadu Hill, Pokhara.
- Altitude: approx. 1100 meters.
- Builder: Nipponzan-Myōhōji, a Japanese Buddhist organization.
- Inauguration: October 30, 1999.
- Symbolism: A symbol of world peace.
- Statues: 4 Buddha statues from Japan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Nepal.
- Structure: 35 meters high, 115 meters in diameter.
- Accessibility: Accessible by hiking, boating across Phewa Lake, or road.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town World Peace Pagoda (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Shanti Stupa?
You can reach it by boat across Phewa Lake, followed by a hike up.
When is the best time to visit?
Visit at sunrise or sunset for a spectacular panoramic view.
Is entry free?
Yes, visiting the stupa itself is usually free of charge.
How long should I stay there?
Plan about 1 to 2 hours for the visit including the view.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, but the hike requires some stamina for children.
World Peace Pagoda: where is it located?
World Peace Pagoda is located in Nepal.
World Peace Pagoda: what is there to see?
Highlights include Machhapuchhre view point, Pumdi Bhumdi View Tower, view to pokhara (Tiju ko Chautara).
World Peace Pagoda: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Nov.
World Peace Pagoda: why is it worth visiting?
The World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa) in Pokhara is an impressive Buddhist monument that sits majestically atop Anadu Hill, offering panoramic views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna mountain range.
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History & landmarks
Sarangkot Viewpoint
A famous ridge west of Pokhara, known for its breathtaking sunrises over the Annapurna Massif and Machapuchare.
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
A deep, damp limestone cave in Pokhara, located right across from Davis Falls, containing a large stalagmite in the shape of a Shiva Lingam.
Davis Falls
A waterfall in Pokhara where the water plunges into an underground tunnel that is 500 meters long and reaches 30 meters deep into the earth.
Tal Barahi Temple
A two-story pagoda temple on a small island in Phewa Lake in Pokhara, dedicated to the protector goddess Ajima.
International Mountain Museum
A museum in Pokhara dedicated to the history of mountaineering, the peoples of the Himalayas, and the flora and fauna of the region.
Bindhyabasini Temple
The oldest temple in Pokhara stands on a small hill in the city center and is dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati in her form as Durga.
Manakamana Temple
A Hindu temple in the Gorkha District dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati.
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