Boat and forest walk to the World Peace Pagoda
The Shanti Stupa, also called the World Peace Pagoda, was built by monks of the Nipponzan Myohoji order, a Japanese Buddhist movement that has raised peace pagodas in many countries. It sits on the Anadu ridge on the south side of Phewa Lake, roughly 350 m above the water. We cross the lake by rowing boat from Lakeside in about 20 minutes and start the climb from the small jetty on the far shore, where a stone path leads up through forest.
The path is steep in places, with uneven stone steps, and most people take 45 to 60 minutes with short rests. Our guide sets a gentle pace, points out birds and the small shrines along the way, and carries water. At the top, the stupa is a broad white dome with Buddha images set in niches around it. Walk clockwise, keep voices low and leave shoes at the marked point. The terrace looks north across the lake to Machapuchare and the Annapurnas, best before 10 am.
For the descent we choose either the same trail back to the boat or the path down the far side to the road, where the car meets you, so nobody has to climb twice. Guests who prefer not to climb at all can drive almost to the top, about 30 minutes from Lakeside, and walk the last 10 minutes. We often finish with lunch on the water at a quiet lakeside restaurant, or pair the morning with the International Mountain Museum on the same side of town.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How hard is the walk to the World Peace Pagoda?
It is a moderate climb of about 350 m on stone steps and forest path, taking 45 to 60 minutes up for most adults. There is no technical section, but it is steep in places and slippery after rain. Good walking shoes are enough. Guests who prefer not to climb can drive almost to the top and walk the last 10 minutes.
Is there an entry fee or dress code at the Shanti Stupa?
There has been no significant entry charge for the stupa itself, though rules and small fees can change; check current status before you travel. It is an active Buddhist site, so cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes on the terrace, walk clockwise and keep noise low. Ask before flying a drone anywhere near it.
Can we combine the pagoda with other sights?
Yes. The pagoda, the International Mountain Museum and Devi's Fall all lie on the south side of Pokhara, within 20 to 30 minutes of each other by car. We usually do the pagoda walk in the morning for the clearest view, have lunch by the lake, then visit the museum in the early afternoon when cloud has come in.
Also in Pokhara
More hours to plan around
