
Matepani Gumba Pokhara
A serene Buddhist monastery east of Pokhara, offering breathtaking Himalayan views and a peaceful escape amidst ongoing reconstruction.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Matepani Gumba Pokhara
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Buddhist monastery east of Pokhara, offering breathtaking Himalayan views and a peaceful escape amidst ongoing reconstruction.
"Cherished for its panoramic views and spiritual ambiance, a peaceful retreat even with ongoing reconstruction."

👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking uphill, and some paths might be uneven due to construction. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially on clear days. :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Pokhara Views
Rooftop and surrounding areas
Breathtaking vistas of Pokhara Valley and the snow-capped Himalayas. A perfect spot for reflection.

New Temple Building
Upper section of the Gumba
Witness the near-complete, vibrant new temple structure, showcasing intricate Buddhist art and architecture.
Spiritual Ambiance
Monastery grounds
Experience a peaceful, serene environment adorned with colorful prayer flags and statues. Ideal for meditation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Navigating Construction & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking uphill, and some paths might be uneven due to construction. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially on clear days. :camerawithflash:
🧘♀️ Embrace the peace
Even with renovations, the spiritual atmosphere is a highlight. :pray:
ℹ️ Check construction status
Recent renovations may affect access. Inquire locally for the latest updates. :informationdeskperson:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking uphill, and some paths might be uneven due to construction. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially on clear days. :camerawithflash:
🧘♀️ Embrace the peace
Even with renovations, the spiritual atmosphere is a highlight. :pray:
ℹ️ Check construction status
Recent renovations may affect access. Inquire locally for the latest updates. :informationdeskperson:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Matepani Gumba is cherished for its breathtaking panoramic views of Pokhara Valley and the Himalayas, offering a peaceful and spiritual retreat. Visitors appreciate the serene atmosphere and the ongoing efforts to enhance the monastery, despite current reconstruction. The site provides a refreshing escape and a connection to Buddhist culture.
"Visible from my house in Pokhara, this place is located in one of the four key hills that I consider part of my community: Bhadrakali Temple Hill, Gumba Hill, Mudula Karki Temple Hill, and Kahun Danda.
Matepani Gumba is a peaceful place. I remember visiting it with my friends when I was a schoolboy. We had access to the prayer rooms and the rooftop, from where I could see the areas around Kundahar, Dhikalethar, Matepani, Fulbari, and Kahun. When I visited last year, the building (a residence hostel for Lama priests) was quite old, and reconstruction work for a new temple building had just begun.
When I visited today, after more than a year’s gap, a new building for worship was close to completion, but the residence building was still quite old. I didn’t find the prayer wheels in the place where the new building was standing. It was clear a huge construction project was underway. Until last year, there were uphill stairs, though in dilapidated shape, but now half of the stairway was gone, and you have to walk around the road. In the upper section, there are remnants of the remaining 50% of the stairs.
Standing atop this forested hill, Matepani Gumba offers more than just peace, tranquility, and wisdom; for me, it's a cherished journey back to my childhood."
amit dhungel
"It is dedicated to Gautam Buddha and it is on top of a hill where there is another Devi Mandir and it is so peaceful and refreshing. You'll sweat to reach the spot but your tiredness will vanish in a few seconds when you reach on top and take just one deep breath."
Amrit Prasad
"Matepani Gumba, located in Pokhara,
is a serene Buddhist monastery known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding Himalayas.
Perched on a hill, it offers breathtaking vistas of the Pokhara Valley and the snow-capped peaks. The monastery, adorned with colorful prayer flags and statues, provides a tranquil space for meditation and reflection.
It is a spiritual haven for both locals and travelers seeking a moment of quiet and connection with nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city."
Bikram Gurung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Matepani Gumba is located east of Pokhara city. You can take a taxi or a local bus towards the Matepani area. Be aware that due to ongoing construction, some direct stairways might be closed, requiring a walk around the road to reach the upper sections.
While the immediate vicinity of the gumba might have limited parking due to construction, you can typically drive to a point near the base and then walk up. Taxis are a convenient option for reaching the area.
Historically, there were uphill stairs. However, with ongoing renovations, parts of the stairway may be gone. You might need to walk around the road to access the upper sections where the new temple is being built.
Local buses that go towards the Matepani or surrounding areas can be an option, but they might drop you at a distance from the gumba itself, requiring a walk. Taxis offer a more direct route.
Matepani Gumba is a short drive from Lakeside, Pokhara, typically around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. It's situated on a hill east of the main city area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit Matepani Gumba. It's a place of worship and a tourist attraction, usually open to visitors free of charge.
The gumba is typically open during daylight hours. However, with ongoing construction, it's advisable to visit during the day to best experience the site and its views.
Yes, visitors can still access parts of Matepani Gumba, especially the areas with views and the new temple building which is nearing completion. Be mindful of construction zones.
No, advance booking is not required for Matepani Gumba as there is no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously.
As a Buddhist monastery, it's respectful to dress modestly. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Covering your shoulders and knees is generally recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed at Matepani Gumba, especially for capturing the stunning views and the exterior of the monastery. Be respectful when photographing inside prayer areas or monks.
The rooftop and the areas offering panoramic views of Pokhara Valley and the Himalayas are prime photography spots. The colorful prayer flags and the new temple building also make for great shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the monastery administration before flying a drone to ensure compliance and respect for the sacred site.
While exterior photography is usually fine, it's polite to refrain from taking photos inside prayer rooms or of monks during their rituals without explicit permission.
Mornings and late afternoons often offer the best light for photography, with clearer skies and softer lighting. The golden hour can be particularly beautiful for capturing the landscape.
🎫 🧘♀️ Onsite Experience
Matepani Gumba is known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere, offering a tranquil escape from the city. It's a place for reflection and spiritual connection, even with ongoing construction.
You can enjoy panoramic views of Pokhara Valley and the Himalayas, explore the new temple building, and soak in the spiritual ambiance. It's a great spot for a peaceful walk and reflection.
Yes, the serene environment makes Matepani Gumba an ideal spot for meditation and quiet contemplation. The peaceful air and beautiful surroundings contribute to a calming experience.
Allocate at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the views, explore the site, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. If you plan to spend more time meditating or reflecting, you might need longer.
Basic facilities might be available, but it's advisable to use restrooms before you head up to the gumba, especially given the ongoing construction.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the ongoing construction, which might limit some areas. However, the new temple building, once completed, will likely offer visually interesting elements for kids. It's a good opportunity to teach children about Buddhist culture and the importance of peace and reflection in a beautiful setting.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Meditators
While the gumba is undergoing reconstruction, the core spiritual essence remains. The panoramic views also contribute to a sense of awe and tranquility, enhancing the meditative experience. It's a place to escape the everyday and find a moment of profound peace.
📸 Photographers & View Enthusiasts
Even with ongoing construction, the unobstructed vistas from the hilltop are a significant highlight. The combination of natural beauty and cultural elements makes it a rewarding location for capturing memorable shots of Nepal. Remember to be respectful of the site and its visitors while you're taking photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Establishment
Situated on a small, forested hill east of Pokhara city, the gumba offers a unique vantage point. Its location was chosen for its tranquility and scenic beauty, providing a peaceful environment conducive to spiritual pursuits. The ongoing reconstruction efforts signify a commitment to preserving and enhancing this important cultural and religious site for future generations.
The Views and Surrounding Landscape
The surrounding forested hill adds to the natural beauty and tranquility of the location. The air is described as calm and refreshing, offering a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Even with the ongoing construction, the inherent peace and the stunning natural scenery remain a significant draw for visitors seeking a spiritual and scenic experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit