Mai Pokhari

Mai Pokhari, located in Sandakpur Rural Municipality of Ilam district, is a famous religious, tourist, and biodiversity-rich site. Located at an altitude of about 2,100 meters above sea level, this pond is naturally star-shaped.

Religious Importance and Mystery of 9 Corners

The 9 corners of Mai Pokhari are considered symbols of Navadurga (9 goddesses). It is believed that various gods and goddesses reside in each corner. Since this pond is considered a form of Goddess Bhagwati herself, sacrifice practice is completely prohibited here. Devotees fly pigeons and worship with flowers and Akshata (consecrated rice) here.

Legend and Popular Belief

• Seven Mai Sisters: According to popular folklore, one of the seven Mai sisters stayed here in the form of a pond as Bhagwati.
• King Marut: There is a legend that in ancient times King Marut built temples in the 9 corners here and performed a Yagya.
• Cleaning by Birds: An amazing natural scene can be seen here where as soon as leaves of trees fall in the pond, birds pick them up with their beaks and throw them out, keeping the pond always clean.
• Pandavas: It is believed that the five Pandavas came here during their forest exile in the Dwapar Yuga.

Natural and International Identity

• Ramsar List: Due to the importance of biodiversity and wetlands, Mai Pokhari was listed in the Ramsar List in 2008.
• Rare Plants: A moss considered rare in the world, Sphagnum Moss, is found here.

Fair and Festival

The largest fair held here is Thuli Ekadashi (Haribodhini Ekadashi). During this time, thousands of devotees come from various places in Nepal and India. Special worship and festivals are also celebrated here on the day of Baisakhe Purnima.

Travel Guide: How to Reach

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bhadrapur Airport (Chandragadhi). From Bhadrapur, you can take a taxi or bus to Ilam Bazaar (approx. 3–4 hours).
• By Road: Ilam is well-connected by road. Direct buses are available from Kathmandu (approx. 12-16 hours) and other major cities.
• From Ilam Bazaar: Mai Pokhari is about 13–18 km from Ilam Bazaar. You can hire a local jeep or taxi, which takes about 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for the final rough stretch.

Best Time to Visit

• Autumn (October - November): Excellent for clear views and the Thuli Ekadashi festival.
• Spring (March - May): Beautiful for blooming rhododendrons and mild weather.
• Winter (December - February): Peaceful but cold; clear skies are common.

Visitor Information & Tips

• Respect the Sanctity: Swimming, fishing, and loud music are strictly prohibited.
• Eco-Friendly: As a Ramsar site, ensure you do not litter and maintain the natural habitat.
• Clothing: Carry warm layers as it can get chilly even in the summer due to the altitude.
• Accommodation: While there are basic homestays near the lake, most visitors stay in Ilam Bazaar.
• Sacrifice Prohibited: Remember that animal sacrifice is strictly forbidden at this site.