Ranipokhari Monastery

Address: Ranipokhari (Rani Pokhari), Kathmandu, Nepal

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.

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.

• 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.