Shree Bindhyabasini Temple
- Pokhara
- Cave
Description
The Bat Cave (Chamero Gufa in Nepali) is a fascinating solutional cave located in the Kaski District, approximately 10 kilometers northwest of Lakeside Pokhara in Pokhara Metropolitan City Ward No. 16, Nepal. Discovered by locals in 1986 (2043 B.S.), the cave is now one of Pokhara’s most popular tourist destinations and is managed by Bindhyabasini Secondary School.
This limestone cave is renowned for being home to thousands of Horseshoe bats, which hang from the walls and ceilings, creating a unique and eerie atmosphere. The cave is 225 meters long and features a large main chamber. Visitors can enter through a wide, open entrance but must navigate a narrow, adventurous exit, which adds to the thrill of the visit. It’s believed that only those who have not committed any sins can pass through this narrow opening.
Inside, the cave is dark and requires the use of torches, which are provided to visitors at the entrance. The cave floor is rough and damp, and the environment can be challenging for small children and elderly persons. The bats, mostly resting or sleeping, create an impressive sight as they hang silently from the limestone ceiling. The Bat Cave is also notable for its rock formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, and various figures of animals and idols of Hindu gods can be observed on the way out. The cave offers a blend of natural beauty and religious significance, making it a captivating experience for visitors. Despite its allure, the cave can be crowded, especially with tourists who may disturb the bats with loud noises and flash photography. This behavior can detract from the experience, so visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the natural habitat.
In summary, the Bat Cave in Pokhara offers a unique adventure with its dark, bat-filled chambers and challenging exit route. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a blend of natural wonder and excitement in a brief but memorable experience.
Things to know before you go
- Pottery Classes– Wonderful experience to get your hands dirty with and end up making your own clay crafts.
- Juju Dhau– Bhaktapur is renowned for its Juju Dhau, also known as the King Curd, sweet and delicious yougurt made in earthen cups.
- Peacock Window– Located at the old Pujari Math, showcases intricately adorned peacock at its center and tail feathers form an elegant lattice window design.
How to get there?
For the most convenient travel to Bhaktapur, many sightseeing tours provide round-trip car transfers, typically with private hotel pickup. Additionally, some Nagarkot tours, including trekking expeditions, include sightseeing stops at Bhaktapur along the way.
Best time to visit The Bat Cave?
Spring and Autumn, that’s when the vibes are just right, with clear skies and those majestic Himalayas popping up like magic. The best time to visit Bhaktapur is during the spring (March to April) and Autumn (October to November). During these seasons, the weather here is pleasant as the sky is clear and the Himalayas are visible.
Whats nearby The Bat Cave?
Nearby Bhaktapur Durbar Square, you’ll find an array of captivating attractions that complement its medieval charm. Just steps away, you can explore the historic 55 Window Palace, the bustling Taumadhi Square, the towering Nyatapole Temple, and the National Art Gallery. Don’t miss the Dattatreya Temple located few hundred meters away and Pottery Square, each offering unique insights into Bhaktapur’s rich cultural heritage.
You can also take a detour to Nagarkot and Dhulikhel, popular hill station for sunrise viewing.
Popular The Bat Cave Tours
Find some of the most popular The Bat Cave Tours
12 days Annapurna Base Camp
9 days Annapurna Panorama
18 Days Annapurna Circuit
8 Days Annapurna Base Camp
Frequently Asked Questions
There are basically four different squares i.e. Taumadhi Square, Durbar Square, Pottery Square and Dattatreya Square.
To get to Bhaktapur Durbar Square from Kathmandu, you have a few options. You can opt for a taxi or private car, which takes about 40 minutes from Thamel, covering around 16km. Alternatively, you can catch a local bus from Ratna Park Bus Stand in Kathmandu or Lagankhel Bus Park in Patan. While local buses take longer due to frequent stops, they follow the same route and traffic conditions, so expect the journey to take around an hour.
Our tour experts and from recommendations of our guests we have handpicked Bhaktapur Day trips.
Attractions near Bhaktapur Durbar Square are 55 Window Palace, Taumadhi Square, Nyatapole Temple, National Art Gallery, Dattatreya Temple, Pottery Square.
The best outdoor activities to do in Bhaktapur are:
- Four Squares of Bhaktapur, Sightseeing tour of Bhaktapur.
- Heritage Tour of Bhaktapur UNESCO Sites.
- Private Bhaktapur Sightseeing and Nagarkot Day Trip
- Panauti Village and Bhaktapur Sightseeing Day Tour
There is an entrance fee for international tourists. The fee goes towards the maintenance and conservation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s advisable to check current rates, as they may vary.