Pulchowki
Pulchowki means "place of flowers", a name it richly deserves on account of the myriad of rhododendron blooms. The 2762 m (9065 ft) summit has a profound influence on the local climate, producing the highest average precipitation in the Kathmandu Valley.
Pulchowki was once covered by jungle, but deforestation and exploitation of the marble quarry have shorn it of its precious hemlock firs.
Pulchowki was once covered by jungle, but deforestation and exploitation of the marble quarry have shorn it of its precious hemlock firs.
|
Must-see attractions nearby:
|
On the summit there is a small open shrine dedicated to Pulchowki Mai. The ancient mother goddess of the forest has recently been forced to share her hitherto peaceful abode with a telecommunications tower. In clear weather the views towards the Tarai and over the Kathmandu Valley, with the Himalayas in the background, are spectacular.
Related Attractions
Pulchowki Mai Pagoda
At the foot of the hill stands a Nau-Dhara shrine dedicated to Pulchowki Mai, the oldest goddess of the forest. The roof struts of the somewhat dilapidated three-storied pagoda are carved with figures of the Ashta Matrikas, one of whom is Pulchowki Mai herself. The three-storied pagoda shows severe signs of decay. Near by stands a small shrine to Ganesh. In front of the temple courtyard are two large tanks fed by water from nine outlets. The Nau Dhara (Nine Fountains) symbolize the nine rivers to which Pulchowki gives rise.
