Destination
World Peace Pagoda Tour
Duration
7:00 AM - 2:00 PM Days
Start/End
Lakeside/Lakeside
Best Seasons
January to December
Transport
Private Car/Jeep
Overview of World Peace Pagoda
The World Peace Pagoda Hike ought to be at the top of your list if you're in Pokhara and seeking a fulfilling but manageable hike that combines breathtaking views, spiritual tranquillity, and cultural experience. The World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa), which is perched on Anadu Hill with a view of Fewa Lake, provides epic panoramic views of the Pokhara Valley, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna Range, and Machapuchare (Fishtail).
For those who want to experience nature and tranquillity without going too far or committing to a multi-day trek, this one-day walk is the ideal getaway. This trek offers a unique experience whether you're a family visiting Nepal, a couple on a romantic retreat, or a single traveler.
World Peace Pagoda Tour Highlights
- Boat ride on Fewa Lake with optional stop at Tal Barahi Temple
- Forest hike to World Peace Pagoda with mountain views
- Explore the stupa and enjoy panoramic Himalayan scenery
- Short uphill trek to Pumdikot Shiva Statue
- Return to Lakeside for lunch
- Optional afternoon: massage, boating, or shopping
What is the World Peace Pagoda?
The World Peace Pagoda, also called Japanese Gompa or Shanti Stupa (by locals), is a shining white Buddhist structure that was constructed to encourage harmony and peace among all people.
The four statues of Buddha that surround the pagoda, which is a stark white dome with a golden pinnacle on top, symbolise significant moments in the life of the Buddha, including his birth, enlightenment, first sermon, and death.
A Japanese Buddhist monk, Nichidatsu Fujii, envisioned constructing over 80 Peace Pagodas around the world. Two of them were built in Nepal. First in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and another in Pokhara, which was completed in the 1970s.
The stupa is a perfect viewpoint that blends spirituality and natural beauty, and it is a symbol of peace. It is located approximately 1,100 meters above sea level. It is a meditative place and the perfect short hike in Pokhara because of the symmetrical architecture, tranquil surroundings, and soft ringing of prayer bells.
One-Day Peace Pagoda Tour Itinerary Overview
Time | Activity | Highlights |
| 7:00 AM | Breakfast at Lakeside Pokhara | Fresh local food, mountain views, and tour prep |
| 7:30 AM | Boat ride across Fewa Lake or walk towards Damside Park | Calm waters, reflection of Annapurna, optional Tal Barahi Temple |
| 8:00 AM | Hike to World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara | Forest trail, birdwatching, serene nature walk |
| 9:00 AM | Explore Shanti Stupa Pokhara | Panoramic views of the Himalayas, Fewa Lake, and spiritual ambiance |
| 10:00 AM | Photography and rest at the peace stupa | Great photo ops of the pagoda and mountains |
| 10:30 AM | Hike to the Shiva Statue at Pumdikot | Shiva idol, 108 lingams, panoramic Pokhara Valley views |
| 12:00 PM | Return hike to Lakeside/Damside | Village scenes, terrace farming, short breaks |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch at Lakeside Restaurant | Local & international cuisine, lake views |
| 2:00 PM | Optional sightseeing or leisure at Lakeside | Souvenir shopping, yoga, lakeside walk, spa, or paragliding (optional) |
Detailed Itinerary for the One-Day Peace Pagoda Tour
7:00 AM – Start from Lakeside Pokhara
Grab an early breakfast in Lakeside Pokhara. Keep your backpack light with essentials: water, sunscreen, hat, camera, and light snacks. Begin the day early to enjoy cooler temperatures and clear skies over the Himalayas.
7:30 AM – Boat Ride Across Fewa Lake or Walk through Damside Park
You can rent a boat by walking to the Lakeside boat station. You can see a mirror-like reflection of Fishtail Mountain (Machapuchare) on Fewa Lake during the serene boat ride.
An optional stop at Talbarahi Temple.
Or,
You can walk towards the eastern side of Fewa Lake, where Damside Park is located. You can enjoy the fresh morning vibe in the park.
8:00 AM – Hike to World Peace Stupa, Pokhara
Get off the boat on the southern shore and start walking along the wooded path to the World Peace Stupa in Pokhara. It's a 55-65 minute walk uphill on a path with shade. Bamboo groves, chirping birds, and sporadic views of the lake are interspersed with stone steps.
Or,
From the park, walk across the Damside along the lush Rainban for 60-70 Minutes. Along the way, pass some small villages and a beautiful, dense forest.
9:00 AM – Explore the White Pagoda in Pokhara
As you approach the stupa, the beautiful white structure of the Peace Stupa Pokhara emerges, contrasting beautifully with the blue sky and lush green surroundings.
What to do at the World Peace Temple, Pokhara:
- Walk clockwise around the stupa
- View the four golden statues of Buddha, each representing significant moments of his life
- Sit on benches for meditation or peaceful observation
- Take panoramic photos of the Himalayas and Pokhara city
World Peace Pagoda Pokhara Entrance Fee: Free (no charge)
Tip: Remove your shoes before stepping onto the stupa platform. Respect the silence and sanctity of the place.
10:00 AM – Photography & Relaxation Time
This is the perfect time to take out your camera or phone. Some of the best angles include:
- The Annapurna Range in the background of the stupa
- From the railing view deck, Fewa Lake and the Pokhara Valley
- The peace pagoda is framed by Fishtail Mountain.
10:30 AM – Hike to Shiva Statue at Pumdikot
An enormous white Shiva statue stands on a circular platform at Pumdikot, which is reached by a well-marked uphill trail from the Pokhara stupa. The 51-foot-tall Shiva statue has swiftly grown to be a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
- Distance: 1.2 km from the Peace Pagoda
- Hiking time: 30–45 minutes
- Trail type: Gradual uphill with scenic rural views
What to Expect at Pumdikot:
- 108 tiny Shiva lingams encircle a massive sitting Shiva idol.
- An aerial perspective of the stupa below and the Pokhara Valley
- A serene hilltop atmosphere, prayer wheels, and spiritual vibes
12:00 PM – Break at a Local Restaurant (Lakeside Return)
Take a short break at some of the local restaurants in Pumdikot. Then, you can either:
- Take a downhill trail back to the boat station and row back to Lakeside
Or,
- Follow the trail that leads toward the Damside to reach Lakeside.
Once you reach Lakeside, you can have lunch at any of the multiple options you can find in Lakeside.
2:00 PM – Chill at Lakeside or Try More Activities
As you complete the Peace Pagoda Tour, you will then have enough time to do other things of your desire. You can go boating in Fewa Lake or take a rejuvenating massage in any of the well-known spas in Pokhara.
Packing Essentials for Peace Pagoda Tour
Though you might not bring a lot of things on your one-day Peace Stupa tour. You still might carry these things:
Comfortable clothes according to the season.
- Sunscreen
- Sunglass
- Comfortable shoe
- Light backpack
- Medication (If you have any)
- Raincoat or umbrella (during the rainy season)
- Water bottle
- National ID or Passport
Best Time to Visit Pokhara
Spring (March to May)
One of the busiest seasons for travel to Pokhara is spring. The surrounding hills are blooming with rhododendrons and wildflowers, the weather is warm and pleasant, and the skies are mostly clear. The time of year is perfect for a World Peace Pagoda Pokhara Tour Package because it's a fantastic time for trekking, paragliding, and sightseeing.
Summer/Monsoon (June to August)
Even though there are sporadic rainstorms during the monsoon season, Pokhara is still green, lively, and less crowded. Waterfalls are at their strongest, the valleys turn emerald green, and lodging is frequently more reasonably priced. It's a lovely time of year for those who enjoy the outdoors and want quiet getaways.
Autumn (September to November)
In Pokhara, autumn is the most popular time of year for tourists. The weather is clear, visibility is good, and the skies remain pristine, making it ideal for photography and mountain views. This time of year also sees important festivals like Dashain and Tihar, which add cultural depth to your trip.
Winter (December to February)
Pokhara's winter months are serene, cool, and less crowded. The days are typically sunny and pleasant, but the mornings and evenings can be cold. The calm atmosphere makes it a tranquil time for boating, meditation, and short hikes, and snow-capped peaks seem closer than ever.
A standard Pokhara tour package may include:
- Breakfast & Lunch
- Transportation
- Professional Guide
- Boating Fee and any other entry fees
The Pokhara tour package may not include:
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages (beer, cola, mineral water)
- Donations and Tips
- Personal Expenses
Customized Pokhara travel packages are also available to suit solo travelers, families, or groups with special interests like photography, spirituality, or adventure.
Things to Do in Pokhara in One Day
Apart from the activities you do in this one-day tour, there are lots of fun things you can do in Pokhara. Following are some of them:
- Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna mountain range and the valley while experiencing the exhilaration of paragliding over Fewa Lake.
- Experience the thrilling ziplining adventure in Pokhara, which offers an unparalleled adrenaline rush and is among the longest and fastest ziplines in Asia.
- Enjoy stunning mountain views and verdant rhododendron forests on a tranquil walk to Australian Camp.
- Ride a mountain bike through quaint villages and along wooded paths as you explore the surrounding countryside of Pokhara.
- Learn about Tibetan history and culture by visiting the Tibetan Refugee Camp, where you can also purchase genuine handcrafted goods.
- Explore Pokhara's Old Bazaar to take in the lively local marketplaces, street cuisine, and antique stores.
- In Pokhara, you can unwind at one of the many welcoming lakeside cafes and bars, which frequently have live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Take advantage of the yoga and meditation classes that are provided by nearby wellness centres; they go well with the serene surroundings of the valley.
Foods to Eat in Pokhara
A trip to Pokhara, Nepal, wouldn't be complete without sampling some of its diverse and abundant cuisine. From international delicacies to traditional Nepali cuisine, Pokhara town offers a wide range of culinary options to suit every taste. You can try a few of the following in Pokhara:
- Dal Bhat (Thali Set in Nepal)
A mainstay in Nepali homes and neighbourhood eateries, Dal Bhat is a traditional Nepali dish made with steamed rice, lentil soup, seasonal vegetables, pickles, and meat curry.
- Nepali dumplings, or momo
The momo, a popular Pokhara dish made with meat or vegetables and served with a tangy tomato chutney, is something you simply must try.
- Himalayan noodle soup, or thukpa
Thukpa, a Tibetan hot noodle soup with meat or vegetables, is the perfect way to warm up after a cold morning at Sarangkot or Peace Pagoda.
- Khaja Set in Newari
This traditional Newari set, which consists of boiled eggs, pickles, spiced meat, beaten rice, and local snacks, is a must-try if you want authentic Newari flavours.
- Curry with Freshwater Fish
Popular with tourists, the restaurants in Pokhara town near Fewa Lake serve freshly caught fish prepared in Nepali-style curry, grilled, or fried.
- Aloo Tarkari with Sel Roti
Deep-fried rice bread, known as sel roti, is a staple at traditional eateries and festivals. It is commonly served with spicy potato curry or yoghurt.
- Bread and Yak Cheese
Rich and flavourful, yak cheese is a mountain specialty that pairs well with local bread or in sandwiches from bakeries and mountain cafés.
- International Food (Italian, Indian, Italian, and Continental)
Pokhara's Lakeside neighbourhood is home to several multi-cuisine restaurants that offer comfort food to visitors from all over the world, including pizza, pasta, falafel, hummus, and Indian curries.
Lakeside Pokhara offers various cafes, bakeries, and restaurants that serve everything from local dishes to international cuisines like Italian, Korean, and Indian.
Final Thoughts
Everything you could possibly need for a day trip is provided by the walk to World Peace Stupa Pokhara: spirituality, stunning Himalayan views, mild adventure and cultural depth. By fusing Buddhist and Hindu spiritual elements in a single picturesque trail, the Shiva Statue at Pumdikot enhances the experience.
This one-day hike in Pokhara is an experience that will never be forgotten, regardless of your interests, be they spiritual, photography, nature, or simply a peaceful getaway. The best part is that it's inexpensive, accessible, and easy for beginners to use.
The Peace Stupa Pokhara and the Pumdikot Shiva statue should therefore be on your list of things to see the next time you're in Nepal's lake city.
FAQs
Is the World Peace Pagoda Pokhara hike safe for solo travelers?
Yes, this is a popular hiking trail among tourists and locals. Daytime hikes are completely safe.
How long is the hike from Fewa Lake to the stupa?
About 55 minutes to 70, depending on pace and stops.
Is there an entrance fee at the World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara?
No, entry to the Pokhara pagoda is free. Donations are welcome.
When is the best time to visit the white peace pagoda?
Early morning or late afternoon (before sunset) for the best light and fewer crowds.
Is the Shiva statue at Pumdikot part of the same trail?
Yes, the Pumdikot Shiva Statue can be accessed by extending your hike from the World Peace Pagoda. It's a short 30-45 minute walk uphill from the stupa.
Are there any wildlife sightings on the trail?
While the trail is not deep into the forest, you might spot monkeys, butterflies, and birds along the forested paths, especially in the early morning.
How to reach the World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara?
To get to the World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara, you can hike straight from Damside or take a boat across Fewa Lake and hike uphill for 60 to 70 minutes.
What is the history of the World Peace Pagoda?
Built in the 1970s by Japanese Buddhist monks, the Pokhara Peace Pagoda is part of a global movement promoting peace and was constructed under the guidance of monk Nichidatsu Fujii.
What is the altitude of Peace Pagoda Pokhara?
At about 1,100 meters (3,600 feet) above sea level, the Shanti Stupa Pokhara provides sweeping views of the Pokhara Valley and the Himalayas.
What is Shanti Stupa famous for?
The Peace Stupa Pokhara is well known for its peaceful atmosphere, stunning panorama of the Himalayas, and acts as a symbol of world peace and unity.