Gupha Pokhari is not an unfamiliar name for many travel enthusiasts in Nepal. Widely known for its natural beauty, it remains a challenging destination to reach due to its rugged and demanding road conditions. This guide is especially helpful for first-time visitors planning a trip to this naturally rich destination. In this blog, I will cover routes, food and accommodation options, road conditions, major attractions, and my personal travel experience.

(For video, please click this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3TEQ8ZHYJA&t=333s)

Why Gupha Pokhari is a Rider’s Paradise

Gupha Pokhari is a dream destination for riders and adventure seekers. The journey offers a thrilling mix of terrains, including pitched highways, winding roads, gravel tracks, off-road sections, and muddy paths during the summer.

Beyond R.R. Garden in Deurali, Basantapur, the route becomes entirely off-road. Therefore, riding an adventure touring motorcycle is highly recommended. While standard street bikes can still make the journey, controlling them on such challenging terrain can be extremely difficult, as they are not designed for rugged off-road conditions.

Location, History, and Best Time to Visit

The name Gupha Pokhari, meaning “Cave Pond,” was given in the 20th century by priests who used to meditate in the area. Located at an altitude of 2,890 meters (9,480 feet) above sea level in Sankhuwasabha district, the destination lies within what is now part of the local municipality.

The best time to visit Gupha Pokhari is from Asoj (October) to Baisakh (April). Travelers are advised to avoid the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and frequent landslides, which make the journey significantly more dangerous.

My Riding Experience

It was a typical Saturday, and I had been planning this ride for quite some time. The day before departure, I prepared all necessary gear and luggage. Although it was my first ride to Gupha Pokhari, I was confident I could complete the trip within a day. However, I was also mentally prepared to stay overnight if needed.

On the day of the ride, I woke up at 5:00 AM and began my journey at 6:00 AM, starting only with a cup of warm water.

For the first time, I found myself appreciating Nepal’s weather forecasts—the day remained completely dry, just as predicted. After nearly eight months, I also had the chance to cross the Bhedetar border toward Dhankuta, following a long COVID-19 lockdown. The combination of excitement and nostalgia, along with the scenic Dharan–Dhankuta highway, made the ride truly memorable.

I reached Hile at around 8:30 AM for breakfast. After a short 30-minute break, I resumed my journey toward Gupha Pokhari.

Route Overview

The route from Hile to Basantapur and the Tinjure area was familiar to me. However, the section from Chauki Bazaar to Gupha Pokhari was entirely new territory.

Along the way, travelers pass through several beautiful locations, including:

• Sidhuwa Bazaar
• Chitre
• Basantapur
• Tinjure Area
• Mangalbare (the last bazaar before Gupha Pokhari)

From Deurali onward, the road turns completely off-road and significantly more dangerous, requiring advanced riding skills.

One of the highlights of the journey is the continuous view of the Makalu mountain range, visible from Hile all the way to Gupha Pokhari. The scenery is so captivating that it can occasionally distract riders from the challenging road conditions.

Arrival at Gupha Pokhari and Things to Do

After nearly 6 hours of continuous riding, I finally reached one of the most beautiful destinations in eastern Nepal.

Perched atop rolling hills, Gupha Pokhari features a serene pond surrounded by lush greenery and hills. The water reflects the surrounding landscape, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting. Unfortunately, due to cloudy weather, I missed witnessing the stunning reflection of Mount Makalu on the pond.

Top Things to Do in Gupha Pokhari

1. Explore Gupha Pokhari (Cave Pond) – Enjoy the calm pond, take photographs, and relax amid the surrounding hills and forests.
2. Hike to Menchyayam Dada – A moderate trekking trail from Gupha Pokhari that offers panoramic views of Makalu, Kumbhakarna, and surrounding hills. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature photographers.
3. Trek or Camp Near the Pond – Spend time in nature, hike around the area, or camp near the pond for a more immersive experience.
4. Local Village Exploration – Visit nearby settlements like Mangalbare, Tinjure Area, and Basantapur. Interact with locals, sample traditional foods, and experience rural Nepali culture.
5. Photography of Mountain Views – Capture stunning vistas of the Makalu and Kumbhakarna mountains, especially on clear days.
6. Nature Walks & Bird Watching – Explore the surrounding forests and hills for a tranquil walk or to spot local birds.
7. Sunrise & Sunset Views – Both Gupha Pokhari and Menchyayam Dada offer breathtaking views during the golden hours.

Gupha Pokhari also serves as a gateway to nearby regions, including Taplejung.

Accommodation and Food

There are approximately 20 to 30 houses in the area, most of which offer basic lodging and food facilities for visitors. However, if you are planning to stay overnight, it is strongly recommended to book your accommodation in advance to avoid inconvenience.

Conclusion

After completing the journey and spending time at Gupha Pokhari, I safely returned home by 8:00 PM the same day. It was a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience—one that perfectly combined adventure, natural beauty, and personal achievement.