PANCHTHAR: Yangwarak Pokhari (Pond) in Jordhara, Yangwarak Rural Municipality-4, Panchthar, has emerged as a popular tourist destination following the completion of infrastructure development works that took five years.
Tourism infrastructure worth Rs 6.44 crores has been constructed around the pond, which holds religious and historical significance. Once surrounded by trees, bushes, water lilies and accumulated waste, the natural pond has been transformed into an attractive destination featuring a water fountain, selfie spots and neatly installed railings.
The pond measures approximately 50 metres in length and width and is seven metres deep. The infrastructure development project was undertaken by YSM Joshi Ashu JV, Kathmandu.
According to Yangwarak Rural Municipality Chairperson Bhim Bahadur Yongya (Subash), the project included pond conservation, traditional water fountains, a children’s park, resting areas, religious statues, selfie spots, flower gardens, an entrance gate and a Yangwarak pillar, among other facilities.
Although the pond’s main structure was completed two years ago, additional work, including fencing and painting, remained unfinished. Following the completion of these remaining tasks, the rural municipality formally inaugurated the site.
Chairperson Yongya and outgoing chairperson Lekhnath Ghimire jointly inaugurated the attraction by unveiling an inscription and activating the water fountain.
The rural municipality developed the site as part of a broader plan to attract tourists visiting Pathibhara Devi, a renowned Shaktipeeth in neighbouring Taplejung district, Timbu Pokhari and Chiwabhanjyang, the source point of the Mid-Hill Highway. However, Yangwarak Pond itself has increasingly drawn domestic visitors.
Hundreds of tourists now visit the site daily, according to Chairperson Yongya. The municipality is also conducting a feasibility study to explore ways to develop the area into a sustainable source of local revenue.
A pond steeped in Limbu history and belief
Yangwarak Pond (Pokhari) holds deep cultural and religious significance for the Limbu community. According to local interpretations, ‘Yang’ means money and ‘Warak’ means pond. The site is believed to have received its name after shiny coins were discovered in the water.
Mahendra Seling, a local expert, said the pond is associated with Tagera Ningwabhumang, a revered deity in Limbu tradition. According to local accounts, the site has also been known as Hang Warak, meaning the king’s bathing pond, and Mang Warak, referring to a pond associated with the deity, since the 12th century.
Another major attraction in the area is Nishan Kalika Dham, a religious site located beneath a large tree near the pond. Shahar Nanda Yonghang, a local Seva Sanwa (priest) and former chairperson of Yangwarak-4, said worship at the temple dates back to the time the pond originated.
Conservation and enclosure work at Nishan Kalika Dham has been completed with financial contributions from the rural municipality and the family of local resident Asmin Idhingo. Additional facilities, including vehicle parking, toilets and a shooting range, have also been constructed in the area.
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