About Pandu Pokhar
Pandu Pokhar is a historic natural lake located in Rajgir, Nalanda District, Bihar. Traditionally associated with King Pandu and the Pandavas' stay during their exile, it is a noted tourist and picnic spot in the Rajgir valley surrounded by low hills. The lake is valued for its calm waters, natural setting and religious significance for Hindu visitors, and forms part of the Rajgir heritage circuit.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a quiet, open freshwater lake surrounded by trees and low hills on the outskirts of Rajgir. The site has an undeveloped natural shoreline with open areas for walking and sitting, views of the surrounding landscape, and a peaceful environment suitable for sightseeing and photography. There are no major built structures on the lake itself, and the area is typically visited as a short stop combined with nearby Rajgir attractions.
Key highlights
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Natural lake traditionally linked to King Pandu and the Pandavas
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Scenic setting in Rajgir valley surrounded by hills and greenery
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Peaceful picnic and sightseeing spot away from town centre
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Religious significance for Hindu pilgrims visiting Rajgir
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Opportunity for photography and nature walks
History of Pandu Pokhar
Pandu Pokhar is traditionally associated with King Pandu, father of the Pandavas, and local belief holds that the Pandavas stayed near this lake during their exile. Rajgir itself was the ancient capital of Magadha and is linked to both Mahabharata traditions and later Buddhist and Jain history, placing the lake within a historically significant landscape.
Culture & Context
The lake is regarded as sacred by local Hindu communities due to its association with the Mahabharata and King Pandu. It is visited by pilgrims and tourists as part of Rajgir's religious circuit and is used as a community picnic and leisure spot, reflecting its cultural value as a natural heritage site.
Route
| By air |
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