Pimbahal Pokhari: A Hidden Heritage Gem Near Nyadha House

Pimbahal Pokhari is a historic water pond located in the Pimbahal area of Lalitpur. It dates back to the Licchavi period (approx. 400–750 AD) and was originally built for water conservation and ritual use. Over centuries, it became a spiritual and communal space for the residents of Patan, surrounded by traditional Newa homes, small temples, and courtyards (bahals).

The pond is flanked by shrines, Buddhist chaityas, and the iconic Rato Machindranath chariot storage area, further cementing its importance in the annual Machindranath Jatra—one of the biggest and oldest festivals in the Kathmandu Valley.

Cultural and Religious Significance

  • Water as a Sacred Element: In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, water bodies like Pimbahal Pokhari are not just utilitarian—they’re sacred. They serve as sites for purification, offerings, and rituals, especially during festivals like Yomari Punhi and Maghe Sankranti.

  • Community & Ritual Life: Local residents still use the pond for daily offerings and during festival preparations. Its waters once connected to the intricate network of hiti (stone spouts) that supplied the entire Patan region.

  • Festival Connection: During the Rato Machindranath Jatra, the area around Pimbahal becomes a vibrant hub of activity as locals prepare and store the majestic chariot before and after the celebration. This makes the site deeply interwoven with Newa identity and ritual continuity.

Proximity to Nyadha House
 

Pimbahal Pokhari is only 170 meters away from Nyadha House—a pleasant 2-minute stroll through the charming alleys of Patan. This makes it the perfect morning or evening walk for guests seeking a peaceful escape without straying far.

At Nyadha House, we encourage our guests to experience Patan as a living museum, not just as a collection of monuments. Sites like Pimbahal embody the soul of this city—not just its history, but the rhythms of life that continue to this day. As you sip your morning tea at Nyadha House, consider taking a short walk to Pimbahal. Watch the ripples on the water, listen to the temple bells, and feel the quiet power of a city that breathes with its past.

Lastly, don’t forget your camera. The reflections on the pond, pigeons in flight, local elders on stone benches, and prayer offerings at sunrise make Pimbahal a hidden photographer’s paradise.