Rani Pokhari

Rani Pokhari (Nhu Pukhu in Newari, meaning 'new pond') is a large artificial pond in the heart of Kathmandu, standing as one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Commissioned in 1670 AD by the great Malla king Pratap Malla, the pond was built to console Queen Rajya Laxmi, who was stricken with grief after the death of their son. The king channelled water from sacred rivers across Nepal to fill it, and the central island temple — Bal Gopaleshwor Mandir — was dedicated to Lord Krishna in his child form, a deity believed to protect children.

The pond is bordered by four smaller temples at its corners representing Bhairav, Ganesh, Shakti, and Shiva, while a stone elephant bearing the king's image once stood at the southern embankment. Surrounded by ornamental iron railings installed during the Rana period, the entire complex was once among the grandest royal waterworks in the valley. The 2015 Gorkha earthquake severely damaged the Bal Gopaleshwor temple, but a meticulous reconstruction — completed in 2023 using traditional materials and techniques — has restored the shikhara-style temple to its former elegance.

Rani Pokhari opens to the public only once a year, during Chhath Puja (October/November), when thousands of devotثers gather at dawn to offer prayers to the rising sun. At other times, the pond and its restored temple can be admired from the surrounding pavement, which is a popular evening gathering spot. Located directly east of Thamel and adjacent to the landmark Ratna Park clock tower, Rani Pokhari is an essential stop on any heritage walk through old Kathmandu.