Lord Shiva Statue, Pumdiko
Pumdikot Shiva Murti (Lord Shiva Statue, Pumdikot) is one of the newest and most iconic religious landmarks in Pokhara, Kaski District. It is a massive 108-feet tall Shiva statue complex situated on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, and the Annapurna Himalayan range.
The site is both a religious pilgrimage center and a scenic viewpoint, making it one of the fastest-growing tourist attractions in Pokhara.
Key Facts
- Location: Pumdikot, Pokhara Metropolitan City, Kaski District, Nepal
- Altitude: Around 1,500 meters above sea level
- Total Height: 108 feet (statue + base stupa structure)
- Shiva Statue Height: About 51 feet
- Type: Hindu religious statue & viewpoint
- Built: Completed around 2021 AD
- Special Feature: 108 Shiva Lingas around the statue base
Religious Importance
Pumdikot is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Mahadev) and is considered a sacred space for devotees.
Important spiritual features include:
- Giant Shiva statue representing peace and power
- 108 Shiva Lingas surrounding the base
- Meditation and prayer areas
- Temple complex inspired by Hindu cosmology
During Shivaratri and other Hindu festivals, the site becomes a major pilgrimage destination.
Major Attractions
🏔️ 1. Giant Shiva Statue
- One of the largest Shiva statues in Nepal
- Visible from multiple parts of Pokhara valley
- Symbol of devotion and spiritual strength
🌄 2. Hilltop Viewpoint
From Pumdikot, visitors can see:
- Phewa Lake
- Annapurna mountain range
- Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain)
- World Peace Stupa area
📸 3. Photography & Sunset Point
- Best sunrise and sunset views
- Wide open sky and mountain backdrop
- Popular photography destination
🛕 4. Temple & Park Area
- Shiva temple complex
- Walking paths and garden areas
- Peaceful spiritual environment
Visitor Experience
Visitors typically enjoy:
- Short hike or vehicle ride uphill
- Walking stairs to statue area
- Exploring viewpoints and temple zone
- Photography with Himalayan background
- Quiet meditation and relaxation
👉 The environment is calm, clean, and less crowded compared to Lakeside.
Distance from Pokhara International Airport
- Distance: Approximately 10–13 km
- By Car/Taxi: Around 25–40 minutes (hill road route)
- By Motorcycle: Around 25–35 minutes
- By Hiking: Around 2–3 hours depending on route
👉 Route: Pokhara International Airport → Chhorepatan → Pumdi Bhumdi → Pumdikot Hilltop
Best Time to Visit
- Morning (sunrise): Clear Himalayan views
- Evening (sunset): Golden valley scenery
- October–March: Best weather and visibility
Why Visit Pumdikot Shiva Murti?
- Massive 108-feet Shiva statue
- One of the best viewpoints in Pokhara
- Panoramic Himalayan scenery
- Peaceful spiritual atmosphere
- Close to major attractions like Peace Stupa and Phewa Lake
