‘Guterres Point’ under construction at Pumdikot

Anyone visiting Pokhara cannot remain unaffected by the bewitching mountains surrounding the valley. The Machhapuchhre peak casting its shadow in the Phewa Lake adds an extra layer of magic to this enchanting destination.

In Oct 2023, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres became a privileged guest of the city. He was greeted with snow-clad mountains and clear sky as he climbed up the Pumdikot hill from the Pokhara valley. 

​​Visiting Pumdikot wasn't originally on Guterres' schedule. However, compelled by curiosity, he ascended from the valley to explore the colossus of Lord Shiva, overlooking Phewa Lake and the majestic mountains. The joy on Guterres' face spoke volumes, radiating elation in response to the natural beauty that surrounded him. He found himself immersed in the beauty of nature. His gaze lingered on the mountains. 

Now the Pumdikot Development Committee has decided to dedicate the southwest part of the Shiva statue to the UN secretary general by naming it ‘Guterres Point’. From this vantage point, visitors can behold ridges of snow-clad mountains, including Annapurna I, II, III and IV, Khangsarkang, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Ghandruk Himchuli, and Mardi.

Chandra Kant Baral, chairman of the committee, said Guterres' visit has ignited local enthusiasm to transform Pumdikot into a modern tourist destination. 

Despite spending only 45 minutes at Pumdikot, Guterres' impact is evident. The 51-feet tall statue of Lord Shiva, a community-driven project, stands as a compelling tourist attraction. 

The committee envisions Pumdikot as the second most important pilgrimage site after the Pashupatinath Temple. Fundraising events, such as Maha Shiva Purana in 2017 and a mahayagya in 2022, have supported tourism promotion. Infrastructure development is accelerating, including administrative buildings, a monorail, a Shivalinga, a replica of Sumeru mountain, and an entrance. Future plans involve an electric chair car, a well-organized parking place, a Shanti Ashram, a senior citizens meeting center, and a garden.

Matrika Baral, a committee member, claimed that Pumdikot had become a must-visit destination for tourists visiting Pokhara. The arrival of VIPs and distinguished visitors, including Secretary-General Guterres has excited the local tourism industry.