What is the Peace Temple?

The Peace Temple, officially known as the Shanti Stupa, is a dazzling white Buddhist stupa perched atop Anadu Hill in Pokhara, overlooking the breathtaking Phewa Lake and the Annapurna mountain range. Built as a monument to peace and non-violence, it is one of over 80 Peace Pagodas built around the world by Japanese Buddhist organization Nipponzan Myohoji.

Location and Accessibility

• Location: Anadu Hill, south of Phewa Lake, Pokhara, Gandaki Province, Nepal

• Elevation: ~1,100 meters above sea level

• Access Options:

  • Boat + Hike: Cross Phewa Lake by boat, then hike ~30–45 minutes uphill

  • Drive + Short Walk: Taxi or motorbike to the base, followed by a 10-minute walk

  • Hiking Trail: 1.5–2 hour trek from Lakeside via the forest trail

 History and Purpose

• Built in 1999 by Nipponzan Myohoji, a Japanese Buddhist order promoting world peace through the teachings of Nichiren Buddhism

• Part of a global initiative to construct Peace Pagodas on all continents

• Symbolizes unity, peace, and the harmony of all religions

• Encourages reflection, meditation, and non-violence among visitors of all backgrounds

 What to Expect at the Peace Temple

Architectural Beauty

• Stunning white dome glistens against the backdrop of the Himalayas

• Four Buddha statues, each facing one of the cardinal directions, represent major events in the Buddha’s life:

  • Birth (Lumbini, Nepal)

  • Enlightenment (Bodh Gaya, India)

  • First Teaching (Sarnath, India)

  • Death/Nirvana (Kushinagar, India)

Panoramic Views

• Unmatched vistas of:

  • Phewa Lake

  • Pokhara cityscape

  • The Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains

  • Lush green valleys and terraced hillsides

Peaceful Ambience

• Quiet surroundings ideal for meditation or contemplation

• Chanting of Buddhist mantras and occasional prayer ceremonies

• Benches and shaded areas for rest and reflection

 Cultural and Spiritual Significance

• Open to all visitors regardless of religion

• Serves as a symbol of interfaith unity

• Encourages visitors to contemplate peace in themselves and the world

• Often used by local Buddhists and foreign pilgrims for rituals and prayers

 Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds

• Footwear: Must be removed before walking on the main stupa platform

• Quiet Please: Maintain silence or speak softly to respect the spiritual atmosphere

• Weather Check: Avoid cloudy days if you’re going for the view

 Nearby Attractions

• Phewa Lake: Enjoy a boat ride to or from the base of the Peace Temple

• Devis Falls and Gupteshwor Cave: Nearby natural wonders worth visiting

• Sarangkot Viewpoint: Another iconic spot for sunrise and mountain views

• Lakeside Pokhara: Cafes, shopping, and nightlife just a short ride away

 Global Peace Pagoda Network

The Pokhara Peace Pagoda is part of a worldwide chain of stūpas including locations like:

• Hiroshima and Tokyo, Japan

• Rajgir, India

• Unawatuna, Sri Lanka

• Lumbini, Nepal (Birthplace of Buddha)

• California and Washington, USA

Each shares the same mission: to promote non-violence and universal peace.

 Photography Tips

• Visit during sunrise or sunset for golden-hour glow

• Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the dome and panoramic landscape

• Don’t miss a shot of the stupa framed by prayer flags

 Fun Facts

• “Shanti” means peace in Sanskrit

• Despite being a Buddhist monument, it’s visited by people of all faiths

• The pagoda is designed to encourage stillness, mindfulness, and unity

 Conclusion

The Peace Temple in Pokhara is much more than a scenic viewpoint — it’s a spiritual sanctuary that invites visitors to reflect on peace, both personal and global. With its stunning setting above the clouds, it is one of the most soul-soothing places to visit in Nepal and a must-see on any Pokhara itinerary.

Whether you’re a trekker, a pilgrim, a photographer, or a seeker of calm, the World Peace Pagoda offers a truly elevated experience — in every sense of the word.