Davis Falls, also written Devi's Fall and known in Nepali as Patale Chhango, the Fall of the Netherworld, is a waterfall formed by the outflow of Phewa Lake. Instead of dropping into a plunge pool, the water pours into a deep, narrow gorge and disappears underground, then runs through hidden channels beneath the rock. The name comes from a Swiss visitor, remembered as Davis, who was swept into the fall in 1961, and over time the spelling and the story have turned into Devi's Fall. Across the road from the falls lies Gupteshwor Cave, a long cave carved by the same water, which holds a sacred shrine to Shiva. Together they make a short, atmospheric visit, about two kilometers from the airport on the Siddhartha Highway, and are easily combined with the Mountain Museum.
At the falls you walk along stone paths and viewing platforms that look into the gorge. The flow depends on the season: during and just after the monsoon the water is a strong, noisy torrent, while in the dry autumn and winter it is calmer, and the lake outflow may be controlled. Wet stone is slippery, so wear shoes with grip. Check the entry arrangements at the gate, since fees and hours can change. Small shops and snack stands sit nearby, and the area is busy with domestic tourists, especially on weekends and holidays.
Gupteshwor Cave is entered through a stairway beneath a small temple, and inside it winds down into the dark. Lights and handrails guide the way, but the floor is wet and uneven, and the air is humid. The shrine includes a Shiva lingam and offerings from worshippers, and the cave is considered holy, so behave respectfully and follow signs about shoes and photography.
The cave is not long, and parts of it can be closed at times, so follow any instructions from staff. If you are claustrophobic or have limited mobility, you can skip the descent and still see the waterfall.
Allow an hour or so for both sights. The best time is in the morning before the crowds, and the air is clear in October and November, although the falls themselves are less dramatic outside the wet season. Pair them with the International Mountain Museum nearby and a drive back through the city, or add them to a lake and pagoda day. Bring small change and keep valuables secure in the crowds.
What to expect
The experience
A walk along paths and platforms above the gorge at the falls, then a descent through a stairway into the lit, humid cave with its Shiva shrine.
Best time
Morning, before the crowds, and after the monsoon when water volume is highest, though autumn air is clear.
How long
About an hour for both sights, a little longer if you linger at the shops.
Tips
Wear shoes with grip, carry small change, respect the shrine and skip the cave if steps and tight spaces are a problem.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone building a half-day city loop who wants a quick look at Pokhara's natural and sacred sights.
- Families
- Children usually enjoy the cave, but hold hands on wet steps and watch the drop at the gorge.
- Couples
- Visit in the morning before the crowds, then continue to a quiet lakeside lunch.
- Pair with
- The International Mountain Museum a few minutes away, or the World Peace Pagoda for the afternoon.
- Time needed
- One to one and a half hours.
Good questions
Why is it called Davis Falls?+
It is named after a Swiss visitor who was swept into the fall in 1961, and the name has turned into Devi's Fall in common use. In Nepali it is called Patale Chhango.
Where does the water go?+
The water pours into a narrow gorge and disappears underground, flowing through channels beneath the rock. Gupteshwor Cave lies across the road and was carved by the same water.
Is Gupteshwor Cave a religious site?+
Yes, it contains a shrine to Shiva and is a place of worship, so dress modestly and behave quietly. Follow signs about shoes and photography.
Is it worth visiting in the dry season?+
The flow is calmer than in the wet months, but the gorge and the cave are still interesting, and the autumn air is clear. Expect less spray.
How far is it from Lakeside?+
It is about a short taxi ride from Lakeside, on the Siddhartha Highway near the airport. It is easy to combine with the Mountain Museum.
