Pukhu and ponds

The Bhaktapur City is full of Phukhus, literal meaning ponds. Phukhus (ponds) are the third type of water supply in Bhaktapur City. There are still 33 ponds in the city. Siddha Pond, Bhajya pond, Guhya Pond, Kamal Pond, Dwinmaju Pukhu, Bhanda-Pukhu and Kaldah Pond are the few well known Ponds of Bhaktapur City. In addition, there are lots of other ponds, in different places of Bhaktapur City. People take holy baths in Ta-Pukhu and Paleswon-Pukhu in the name of goddesses Indrayani and Mahalaxmi respectively during the occasion of Mohani (Dasain). Dwinmaju Pukhu is associated with a local belief that ailments caused by the loss of appetitie and malnutrition can be cured if the sick infant is bathed in the Pond. Similarly Bhanda Pukhu is related to a holy bath offered to Tulaja Bhavani, the royal goddess of the Malla kings. People also take holy baths in the Kaldah Pond during the full moon day of August. Khancha-Pukhu of the Inacho Tol is well known for the refletion sight of the Nyatapola temple. Some of the most important Phukhus of Bhaktapur, still popular among the local peoples are given below

Ta - Pukhu

Ta-Pukhu i.e. Siddha Pokhari, literally a big Pond, dates back to the Lichhavi period. At one time, colorful species of fish were imported from China to embellish the Pond. It has recently been rehabilitated by the Bhaktapur Municipality. Currently it is gaining its popularity for its peaceful environment and among youths, couples to spend their time. People takes holy baths in Ta-Pukhu in the name of goddesses Indrayani during the occasion of Mohani(Dasain).

Barhe - Pukhu

Barhe-Pukhu literally a lotus Pond, is located at Kamal Vinayak. It is one of Bhaktapur’s biggest ponds. Situated at the north-eastern part of the city, this historic pool is also known as Kamal Pokhari.

Ancha – Pukhu

Located in the northern section of the city, the Pond has an elaborate stone image of reclining Lord Vishnu in its center. The Pond is a venue for a number of ritual ceremonies and festivals in Bhaktapur