Namaste, today you will learn about the Kumari Cave located in Pokhara-16.
Introduction
Located in the peaceful and green surroundings of Batulechaur in Pokhara–16, Kumari Cave is a
unique natural site filled with beauty, mythology, history, and cultural significance. Its secluded
environment, mysterious inner structure, shining rock formations, deep pits, and three-way
passage system make it different from other caves in Pokhara. Once feared by locals, this cave
later became a fascinating attraction for visitors.
Geographical Location
Kumari Cave lies in Kurama, within Batulechaur of Pokhara Metropolitan City–16. The cave is
situated in the middle of a forest, surrounded by traditional settlements as well as newly
developing houses. To the east lies Kusinde, to the west Kura Armala, to the north Gauda Mukh,
and to the south Raj Padhera.
The cave is positioned near the Seti River, which makes the terrain slightly hilly and uneven.
After crossing a suspension bridge, the trail to the cave begins. In recent years, locals have
improved the rough path by adding slopes to make access a bit easier.
History
It is believed that Kumari Cave was discovered around the year 2068 BS. At that time, the area
was covered with dense forest, and there were no settlements nearby. While exploring caves in
the region, a German tourist reached the inner part of the forest. As he walked deeper, he noticed
a small tunnel-like opening. Curious, he took a local boy, Bikash Bhujel, along with him to
inspect it.
The tunnel found inside the forest was narrow. To make it wide enough to enter, they used a rope
to open the passage. The German tourist asked Bikash Bhujel to hold the rope outside for safety
while he himself entered the dark and deep cave to explore. Once inside, he saw that the cave
was large, with shiny rocks on the walls that looked like crystals or gemstones, and the natural
formations were extremely beautiful.
As soon as the news of the cave’s discovery spread, local interest increased. The land on which
the cave was located was registered under a private individual. Later, with some resources, the
tunnel was widened further. As the cave became more popular, the then VDC chairman, Kul
Prasad Bhattarai, officially inaugurated the site.
Origin of the Name
During the exploration of the cave, after entering and walking about five minutes inside, they
noticed a rock formation on the cave wall that resembled the face of a woman with long hair.
Since this figure looked similar to the image of a Kumari (the Living Goddess), the then
chairperson named the cave “Kumari Cave” based on this formation.
In the beginning, locals did not dare to enter the cave, fearing that tigers, bears, or dead jackals
might be inside. But after the cave was named, curiosity grew, and gradually both locals and
visitors began exploring the interior.
Importance
Kumari Cave is considered significant from natural, religious, historical, and tourism
perspectives. Among the stone caves found in the Pokhara region, this cave is known for its
unique structure. According to local legends, it is said that in history, activities of the rulers of
the Baise–Chaubise kingdoms often took place nearby, as the cave was close to the royal palace.
During the conflict period, some Maoist fighters and other groups reportedly hid in this area.
It is also said that the Kusunde community used to live nearby in the past—a belief that is still
prevalent among locals. For a time, the locals operated a tourism ticket system at the cave, but it
has recently been discontinued because the cave was not officially registered.
Structure
Kumari Cave is a naturally formed stone cave. Upon entering, visitors can see glistening rock
formations. From the ceiling hang white mineral deposits resembling cow dung (stalactites),
from which water drips. The cave has three distinct passageways, showing great diversity in
depth and formation.
Inside the cave, there is a very deep pit where tourists or adventure enthusiasts can descend using
ropes. This section is about 30–35 hands deep (approximately 15–18 meters), and reaching the
bottom is said to feel like entering another world.
The general depth of the cave is considered to be around 8–10 meters. A tiny stream of water,
about an inch wide, flows within. According to local legend, ancient sages used this area for
meditation and spiritual practice. Because of the rock formation that resembles the figure of a
Kumari, locals consider it an auspicious site.
While the cave is not specifically a place for formal religious rituals, the natural Kumari-shaped
formation gives it a certain spiritual significance.
Reasons to Visit
Kumari Cave attracts many visitors due to its unique and intricate interior structure. The
glistening rock formations, white mineral deposits hanging from the ceiling, and naturally
formed pathways make the cave fascinating. One of its main attractions is the experience of
descending into the deep pit using ropes.
The journey to the cave itself adds to the adventure—crossing forests and a suspension bridge,
spotting bats along the way, and enjoying the serene surroundings. Additionally, since it is close
to Crazy Cave, visitors can explore both sites together, making this area a favorite destination for
those seeking adventure and nature-based experiences.
