Davis Falls, Gupteshwor and Pokhara's caves
In Nepali: पाताले छाँगो, गुप्तेश्वर र पोखराका गुफा · Also known as: Davis Falls · Patale Chhango · Mahendra Cave · Bat Cave · पाताले छाँगो
The outflow of Phewa Lake plunges into a narrow chasm at Davis Falls (Patale Chhango) and disappears underground. Across the road, steps lead down into Gupteshwor Mahadev cave, where a Shiva linga stands in a chamber and a passage leads to a view of the falls from below.
North of the city, Mahendra Cave has stalactites and a small shrine, and the nearby Bat Cave (Chamero Gufa) is home to thousands of bats; the adventurous can squeeze out through a narrow exit. Pokhara sits on soft sediments, and the Seti river flows in a deep gorge right through town.
What to see and do
At Davis Falls, watch the water thunder into the sinkhole, especially powerful in late summer. In Gupteshwor Mahadev cave, follow the spiral staircase down past the shrine to a chamber where the falls crash in from above. North of the city, Mahendra Cave and Bat Cave (Chamero Gufa) are near each other at Batulechaur; the Bat Cave's narrow 'exit' requires crawling.
Good to know
Each site charges a small entry fee. The caves are damp and slippery — wear good shoes and bring a torch for Bat Cave (guides with lights are available). The waterfall name comes from a Swiss woman, Mrs Davis, who is said to have been swept into the chasm in 1961.
Quick answers
- Where is Davis Falls, Gupteshwor and Pokhara's caves?
- Davis Falls, Gupteshwor and Pokhara's caves is in Kaski district, Gandaki Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- How much does it cost to visit Davis Falls, Gupteshwor and Pokhara's caves?
- Davis Falls, Gupteshwor and Pokhara's caves is in or right next to Pokhara, so it is an easy day visit. Budget for a taxi there and back (about NPR 600–1,500, US$5–11) and meals (NPR 1,000–2,500, US$8–19 per person). If you stay in Pokhara, rooms cost about NPR 1,500 / US$11–NPR 4,500 / US$33 a night.
- How many days do I need for Davis Falls, Gupteshwor and Pokhara's caves?
- Half a day to a full day is enough; it is a short ride from central Pokhara.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Davis Falls, Gupteshwor and Pokhara's caves?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Davis Falls, Gupteshwor and Pokhara's caves?
- July–October for the falls at full flow
- How do I get to Davis Falls, Gupteshwor and Pokhara's caves?
- Davis Falls 2 km south of Lakeside; caves 30 minutes north of the city. It is about 4 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
- What is Davis Falls, Gupteshwor and Pokhara's caves called in Nepali?
- पाताले छाँगो, गुप्तेश्वर र पोखराका गुफा
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