Mahendra Cave
Gandaki
Mahendra Cave, located in Pokhara, Nepal, is a significant natural limestone cave system known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites formations. Discovered in the 1950s by local shepherds, the cave was initially called 'Adhero Bhawan' meaning 'Dark Habitat' before being named after King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev following his visit. The cave features about 100 meters of accessible passages illuminated artificially due to the natural darkness, with an additional 100 meters of more challenging corridors. Inside, visitors can find a statue of the Hindu deity Shiva, highlighting the cave's cultural and religious significance. The cave is also a habitat for various bat species and unique invertebrates, making it of ecological interest. Its proximity to other natural attractions like Kumari Cave and Bat Cave, as well as the surrounding lush greenery and views of hills, enhances its appeal as a tourist destination. Easily accessible from Pokhara Airport and the city center, Mahendra Cave offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural heritage.
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Tip: The best time to visit Mahendra Cave is during daylight hours when artificial lighting allows for safe exploration of the dark passages. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes due to slippery surfaces and to consider purchasing tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues. The cave offers free Wi-Fi to help visitors learn about its significance. Nearby attractions like Bat Cave and Kumari Cave can be combined for a full day of exploration. Discounts may be available for groups or students; check locally.
Interesting facts
- •Mahendra Cave is one of the rare limestone caves in Nepal featuring both stalagmites and stalactites formations.
- •The cave is home to four bat species, including Hipposideros armiger and Megaderma lyra, as well as unique invertebrates like Troglopedetes nepalensis.
- •The cave passages span about 200 meters, with half being easily accessible and the rest requiring cautious navigation through low unstable corridors.
- •A statue of Hindu lord Shiva is located inside the cave, reflecting its religious significance.
- •The cave was first properly surveyed in 1976 by British speleologists, including Jane Wilson-Howarth, who documented its unique fauna.
History
Mahendra Cave was discovered in the 1950s by shepherds in the Pokhara region and was originally named 'Adhero Bhawan' or 'Dark Habitat.' Its prominence grew after King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev visited and officially inaugurated it, leading to its current name.
In 1976, a British speleological team conducted a detailed survey, documenting the cave's fauna and geography.
Over the decades, the cave has become one of Pokhara's most visited natural attractions, maintaining its cultural and ecological importance.
Place Guide
Main Passage1950s
The main accessible corridor of Mahendra Cave is approximately 100 meters long, featuring impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations illuminated by artificial lighting to guide visitors safely through the dark interiors.
Statue of Lord Shiva
A prominent statue of the Hindu deity Shiva is located inside the cave, symbolizing the cave's spiritual and cultural importance to local people and visitors.
Unstable Corridors
Beyond the main passage, there are about 100 meters of low and unstable corridors accessible only through a collapsed passage roughly half a meter high, requiring caution and experience to enter.
Contact
Phone: 061-460587
