“Above the clouds and beyond the chaos, peace waits in white.”
Overlooking the glistening waters of Phewa Lake and backed by the majestic Annapurna range, the Shanti Stupa, also known as the World Peace Pagoda, is one of Pokhara’s most iconic and soul-soothing attractions. This gleaming white Buddhist monument, perched on Anadu Hill at an altitude of about 1,100 meters, was built by Japanese monks of the Nipponzan-Myōhōji order to promote global peace and unity.
Whether you’re here for spectacular mountain views, spiritual reflection, or a short scenic hike, the Peace Pagoda delivers a perfect blend of natural beauty and serene architecture.
🏯 Why Visit the Shanti Stupa?
“The mountains watch over you, the lake calms beneath you, and peace settles around you.”
- 🕊 A powerful symbol of peace and non-violence
- 🏔 Offers 360° panoramic views of Phewa Lake, Pokhara Valley, and the Annapurna Himalayas
- 🛕 Features four golden Buddha statues, each representing a moment from Buddha’s life
- 📸 A favorite spot for sunrise, sunset, and photography
A peaceful place for meditation, contemplation, or just taking in nature’s grandeur.
🛤️ How to Get There
You can reach Shanti Stupa in multiple ways, making it a flexible adventure for all types of travelers:
🚶♂️ Hike via Phewa Lake:
- 🛶 Take a boat across the lake from Lakeside (~Rs. 700–1000 round trip)
- 🥾 Climb up the forest trail for 30–45 minutes
🛵 By Road:
- 🚗 Drive or ride up from Chhorepatan via Dobilla, ~30 minutes from Lakeside
- 🚶 Short walk from the vehicle drop-off to the stupa entrance
💡 Local Tip: Combine your trip with nearby attractions like Phumdikot Shiva Statue or Davis Falls.
📆 Best Time to Visit
- Early morning for a calm, misty vibe
- Late afternoon for golden hour light and fewer crowds
- October to April for the clearest mountain views
📜 Highlights of the Stupa
- 🛕 Four Buddha statues facing four directions (Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, Kushinagar)
- 🔔 A large peace bell rung by visitors to express hopes for world peace
- 🌸 Landscaped gardens and a clean, quiet environment
- 📷 Ideal spot for meditation, picnics, or panoramic photography