Ranipokhari
Monastery Historic rectangular pond at central Kathmandu, civic landmark
A historic artificial pond in central Kathmandu, built in the 17th century and surrounded by temples; visitors come for religious rituals, festivals and close proximity to Durbar Square sights.
Ranipokhari is a historic artificial pond in central Kathmandu, Nepal, originally constructed in 1670. It is one of the city’s best-known traditional water features and has long been a landmark in the old city core.
The pond is noted for its central islet that supports a small temple and for its role as an urban water and ceremonial site. The structure and its surrounding promenade draw local visitors and pilgrims rather than large tourist crowds.
The pond was commissioned and built in 1670 by King Pratap Malla. Over the centuries it has been maintained and repaired several times and sustained major damage in the 2015 Gorkha earthquake, after which it underwent a documented restoration.
Ranipokhari sits in central Kathmandu within the historic urban fabric of the city, surrounded by city streets and neighborhood buildings. It is located in the Bagmati Province municipal area of Kathmandu and is readily accessible from nearby parts of the city.
- Restoration: Rebuilt after major damage from the 2015 Gorkha earthquake and officially reopened following restoration work in 2020.
- Central shrine: Contains a small temple on a central islet and is commonly called Rani Pokhari or Ranipokhari in Nepali sources.
How to Get to Ranipokhari #
In Kathmandu’s old city core - a ten-minute walk from Durbar Marg and a short walk from Basantapur Durbar Square. Easily reached on foot or by short taxi from Thamel.
Tips for Visiting Ranipokhari #
- Visit early morning to watch local devotees and the city shake awake around the pond.
- Combine a stop at Ranipokhari with a walk toward Basantapur and Narayanhiti Palace for Kathmandu's historic core.
- Expect crowds and birds; the site is often used by locals for ritual and leisure rather than as a quiet tourist stop.
Best Time to Visit Ranipokhari #
Best visited in autumn or spring for pleasant weather and the city's festival activity; early morning offers quieter moments and rituals.
Weather & Climate near Ranipokhari #
Ranipokhari's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical (Dry Winter) - Humid Subtropical (Dry Winter) climate with warm summers (peaking in June) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 4°C to 29°C. Abundant rainfall (1608 mm/year), wettest in July with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 17°C and lows of 4°C. Light rainfall.
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February
February is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 5°C. Light rainfall.
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March
March is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (33 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm).
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May
May is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 16°C. Significant rainfall (119 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 19°C. Heavy rain (286 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 20°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (401 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 20°C. Heavy rain (362 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 18°C. Heavy rain (229 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (66 mm).
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November
November is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 8°C. The driest month with just 7 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 4°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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