Historic Siddha Pokhari undergoing restoration (photos)

KATHMANDU: The historic, religious, and tourist landmark Siddha Pokhari (Taḥ Pukhu), located near the eastern entrance of Bhaktapur, is currently undergoing reconstruction and maintenance.

Known in the Newar language as “Taḥ Pukhu,” meaning “large pond,” the site is one of Bhaktapur’s most prominent heritage landmarks, deeply connected with the city’s history, culture, and spiritual traditions.

Believed to have been expanded and systematically developed during the reign of Malla King Yaksha Malla, the pond has long played a vital role in the city’s water management system, religious practices, social life, and tourism activities.

With several legends and religious beliefs associated with it, the Bhaktapur Municipality began restoration work through a user committee on Jestha 20.

The ongoing project includes rebuilding damaged stone pavements and walkways around the pond, which were affected by the 2015 earthquake, as well as cleaning accumulated sludge from the pond bed.

As part of the restoration process, the water has been drained from the pond, and fish have been relocated to other water bodies for their safety.

The municipality aims to complete the reconstruction before the second week of Bhadra, ahead of the Indra Jatra festival.

-Saroj Basnet