Amid the ancient brick alleys and timeless artistry of Bhaktapur, there lies a hidden oasis that many visitors often overlook — the Bhandar Pokhari. Located just a few minutes' walk from the renowned National Art Gallery in Bhaktapur Durbar Square, this quiet pond serves as a peaceful retreat from the city’s vibrant hustle. But Bhandar Pokhari is much more than just a pretty sight — it is a symbol of the town’s spiritual traditions, historical depth, and harmonious relationship with water and nature.
A Glimpse into Bhaktapur’s Heritage
Bhaktapur, often referred to as the "City of Devotees", is famed for its beautifully preserved temples, palaces, courtyards, and intricate wood and stone art. Water features like ponds (pokharis) have been an essential part of Newar urban planning for centuries. They provided drinking water, supported religious rituals, and served as serene communal spaces for reflection and celebration.
Bhandar Pokhari fits perfectly into this ancient tradition, blending functionality with aesthetics in a way that only Bhaktapur can.
The Story Behind Bhandar Pokhari
The word "Bhandar" can be translated to "treasure" or "storehouse" in Nepali, and "Pokhari" means pond. Some locals say that Bhandar Pokhari was historically associated with the royal treasury or was built to serve a palace or temple complex nearby, although exact historical records are sparse.
Like many ponds in Bhaktapur, Bhandar Pokhari would have been a vital part of everyday life — a source of water, a place for religious purification rituals, and a gathering spot for the community.
A Pond Full of Charm
Today, Bhandar Pokhari stands as a beautiful and peaceful spot in the heart of the historic city:
Stone Masonry Embankments: The pond is bordered by beautifully aged stone walls, a testament to the Newar mastery of stone craftsmanship.
Reflections of Heritage: On calm days, the still waters act like a mirror, reflecting nearby pagodas, traditional houses, and the sky — a perfect scene for photographers and dreamers alike.
Seasonal Beauty: During the monsoon, the pond is full and vibrant, sometimes adorned with floating lotuses. In the drier seasons, it takes on a different, more meditative beauty.
Community Life: It's not unusual to see local children playing nearby, elders sitting quietly, or a festival procession making a ceremonial stop at the pond.
Bhandar Pokhari and the National Art Gallery
Located close to the National Art Gallery — housed in part of the historic 55-Window Palace — Bhandar Pokhari offers a refreshing break after immersing yourself in centuries of sacred paintings, sculptures, and religious artifacts.
After a visit to the Gallery, a short stroll to the pond lets you step from the rich intensity of art into the calming embrace of nature and reflection.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Water is sacred in Nepali culture. Ponds like Bhandar Pokhari are often linked to nearby temples and religious rituals:
Purification Ceremonies: In the past, pilgrims and devotees would purify themselves by washing at ponds before entering holy sites.
Festival Connections: Some traditional Newar festivals involve rituals where water from sacred ponds is used in processions or temple ceremonies.
While Bhandar Pokhari might not be at the center of grand celebrations today, it still quietly holds its place in the spiritual ecosystem of Bhaktapur.
Best Time to Visit
Early Morning: Experience the pond in peaceful silence, with only the soft sounds of the waking city.
Late Afternoon: Watch the golden sunlight dance on the water and the historic buildings.
During Festivals: Bhaktapur comes alive during festivals like Bisket Jatra and Indra Jatra — a visit during these times can reveal how even quiet corners like Bhandar Pokhari become woven into the city's celebrations.
Tips for Visitors
Photography: The reflections in the pond offer stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Respect: Avoid throwing waste into the pond or disturbing the peaceful atmosphere.
Explore Nearby: After visiting Bhandar Pokhari, take time to wander the nearby alleys filled with hidden shrines, old brick houses, and friendly tea shops.
Bhandar Pokhari may not appear in flashy tourist brochures, but that's exactly what makes it special. It’s a glimpse into the living, breathing heart of Bhaktapur — where history, community, and nature come together in quiet harmony.
Next time you visit Bhaktapur, take a few extra steps beyond the grand temples and bustling squares. Sit by Bhandar Pokhari, watch the ripples on the water, and feel the centuries of stories whispered by the breeze.
Because sometimes, the most beautiful treasures are the ones hidden in plain sight.
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