Nag Pokhari (Naxal)

Nag Pokhari in Naxal is one of Kathmandu's most picturesque historic ponds, distinct from its namesake in Bhaktapur's royal palace. Built in the early 19th century (traditionally attributed to Queen Subarna Prabha Devi, wife of King Rana Bahadur Shah), this rectangular pond sits at the heart of what was once a royal garden estate well outside the old city walls.

The pond's centrepiece is a magnificent stone post rising from the water, topped with a multi-headed Naga King figure whose cobra hoods fan outward in a protective canopy. This sculpture is one of the finest examples of late Malla serpent iconography in the valley. Nagas (serpent deities) are the traditional guardians of water sources in Newar cosmology, and their presence signified the sanctity and protection of the pond as a community water resource.

During Nag Panchami (July/August), the pond becomes the focus of serpent worship — devotees paste images of nagas above their doorways and offer milk, flowers, and vermilion at the pond's edge. The festival transforms the usually quiet park into a vibrant ritual space. At other times, Nag Pokhari is a well-maintained public park with paved walkways, benches, and manicured gardens — one of central Kathmandu's most pleasant green spaces.

The pond is located in the Naxal neighbourhood, a short walk from Gahana Pokhari in Handigaun and about 15 minutes north of Rani Pokhari. These three ponds — Rani, Nag, and Gahana — form a historic water triangle across northeastern Kathmandu that can be explored in a single morning's heritage walk. Entry is free and the park is open daily.