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Chobhar Gorge: Where Legend Says the Kathmandu Valley Lake Drained

Kathmandu Valley

In this article
  1. Chobhar Gorge at a glance
  2. Things to do
  3. Trips and guides
  4. Plan your visit

At Chobhar, the Bagmati River leaves the Kathmandu Valley through a narrow gorge. Legend says the bodhisattva Manjushree cut this gap with his sword to drain the great lake that once filled the valley, making it habitable; geologists agree the valley was once a lake. On the hill above stands the Adinath Lokeshwar temple, its walls hung with pots and pans offered by newlyweds.

Quick answer: Chobhar is about 30 minutes from central Kathmandu. Cross the old iron suspension bridge over the gorge, climb to Adinath, and continue to Taudaha and Pharping.

Chobhar Gorge at a glance

FactDetails
LocationSouth-west Kathmandu Valley
RiverBagmati
TempleAdinath Lokeshwar
LegendManjushree drained the valley lake
Combine withTaudaha, Kirtipur, Pharping

Things to do

  • Walk across the suspension bridge.
  • Visit Adinath Lokeshwar on the hilltop.
  • Look down into the narrow gorge.

Trips and guides

Plan your visit

Chobhar is where the valley's founding myth comes alive. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the questions we hear most. Can’t find what you need? Our team in Kathmandu is happy to help.

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Manjushree cut the gorge to drain the valley lake.

Adinath Lokeshwar.

About 30 minutes.

Yes, on an old iron suspension bridge.

Taudaha, Kirtipur and Pharping.