World Peace Pagoda: A Tranquil Sanctuary Above Pokhara

The World Peace Pagoda, or Shanti Stupa, stands as a beacon of tranquility high above Pokhara. Built in 1973 by Buddhist monks of the Nipponzan-Myohoji organization, with the support of locals, it is one of over 80 such pagodas worldwide dedicated to inspiring peace. The vision for these pagodas came from Nichidatsu Fujii, a Japanese Buddhist monk and founder of the Nipponzan-Myohoji Order, who dedicated his life to promoting non-violence. The pagoda itself is a two-tiered structure, approximately 115 feet tall and 344 feet in diameter, allowing visitors to circumambulate and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Inside, you'll find four statues of Buddha, each a gift from different countries: 'Dharmachakra Mudra' from Japan, 'Bodh Gaya' from Sri Lanka, 'Kushinagar' from Thailand, and 'Lumbini' from Nepal. These statues represent significant events in the life of Gautam Buddha. Shoes are not permitted inside the pagoda. From its hilltop location, the World Peace Pagoda offers breathtaking views. You can see the city of Pokhara, Phewa Lake, and the towering peaks of the Annapurna range, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). Many visitors come to meditate, practice yoga, or simply enjoy the blissful silence and cool breeze.