TGT Correspondent
Kathmandu, Oct 11
Ranipokhari, the historic pond in the heart of Kathmandu will be re-opened around the Dashain Festival, as its renovation is complete. According to the National Reconstruction Authority, the pond destroyed by the 2015 earthquake has been fully restored, and will be opened for public visit soon. According to the Authority, the reconstructed pond will be inaugurated by the head of state around the Dashain Festival.
The Bal Gopaleshwar Temple at the centre of the festival will also be opened on Bhaitika Day this year as done in the past.
The pond that dates from the 17th century was built in 1670 AD by King Pratap Malla one of the most illustrious monarchs of the Malla dynasty that ruled Nepal for more than 600 years. Pratap Malla had the pond constructed to console his queen who was distraught with grief after their son was trampled to death by an elephant. He had water collected from various holy places and river confluences in Nepal and India and poured into the pond.
By practice, the Bal Golapaleshar Temple situated in the middle of the pond is opened only on Bhaitika Day, the fifth day in the five-day Tihar Festival of the Hindus.
Ranipokhari is one of the most attractive spots to visit in Kathmandu.