World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara: A Symbol of Harmony and Tranquility
Nestled atop Ananda Hill in Pokhara, Nepal, stands the iconic World Peace Pagoda. This shimmering white structure is not only a symbol of peace but also a stunning example of traditional Buddhist architecture. Built in 1973 by the Nipponzan-Myohoji Buddhist Order, the World Peace Pagoda serves as a beacon of hope and harmony for people of all faiths. With its panoramic views of Pokhara and the surrounding Annapurna range, the pagoda is a popular destination for visitors seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. Whether you arrive by boat or on foot, the World Peace Pagoda is a must-see destination that will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted. So, come and discover the beauty and serenity of the World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara, where peace and harmony reign supreme.
The History of the World Peace Pagoda
The idea of building a peace pagoda in Pokhara was first proposed by the Japanese Buddhist monk, Nichidatsu Fujii, who was the founder of the Nipponzan-Myohoji Buddhist Order. Fujii was a strong advocate of non-violence and world peace, and he believed that building peace pagodas around the world would help promote his message of peace. After getting approval from the Nepalese government, construction of the World Peace Pagoda began in 1973, with the help of local and international volunteers. The pagoda was built using traditional Buddhist techniques and features four ornate Buddha statues facing the four cardinal directions. Today, the World Peace Pagoda is considered one of the most important Buddhist shrines in Nepal and a testament to the power of peace and unity.
Architectural Design of the World Peace Pagoda
The World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara is a magnificent example of traditional Buddhist architecture. The pagoda's gleaming white exterior is immediately eye-catching, and its position on a hill overlooking Phewa Lake makes it one of Pokhara's most iconic landmarks. The pagoda's construction was guided by the principles of Buddhist architecture, which prioritize harmony between the natural world and the built environment. The pagoda is built using a mixture of local materials and traditional techniques, and features intricate carvings and statues that depict important figures from the Buddhist faith.
At the top of the pagoda is a large dome-shaped structure, which is adorned with a golden spire that glints in the sunlight. The golden spire is called the finial and is an important symbol in Buddhist architecture, representing the enlightenment of the Buddha. The finial sits atop a structure known as the harmika, which is a square platform that sits on the dome. The harmika is decorated with carvings of lotus petals and other symbols of Buddhist iconography.
The inside of the pagoda features four ornate Buddha statues, each facing a different cardinal direction. These statues are made of gilded bronze and are adorned with precious gems and intricate designs. The walls of the pagoda are adorned with murals and paintings depicting important events from the life of the Buddha and other Buddhist figures. Visitors to the pagoda are welcome to enter and pay their respects, and the peaceful atmosphere inside the pagoda is a testament to the skill of its builders and the enduring beauty of Buddhist architecture.
Getting to the World Peace Pagoda is relatively easy as it is located on top of Ananda Hill on the southern shore of Phewa Lake in Pokhara. You can reach the base of the hill by taking a taxi or local bus from the Lakeside area in Pokhara, which is a popular tourist destination with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Once you reach the base of the hill, you can either hike up the steep trail to the top or take a boat ride across the lake and hike up from the other side. The hike up to the World Peace Pagoda takes about an hour, but the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake make it worth the effort.