Davis Falls Pokhara: Complete Visitor Guide

Overview

Davis Falls, locally known as Patale Chhango (meaning "underworld waterfall"), is one of Pokhara's most unusual natural attractions. Located in the Devi's Fall area about 2 kilometres south of the Lakeside tourist strip, the waterfall flows directly into a sinkhole in the riverbed of the Pardi Khola, disappearing underground through a series of caves before eventually draining into Phewa Lake. At its peak during and just after monsoon, the cascade is powerful and thunderous. In the dry months, the flow is considerably reduced but the cave geography remains dramatic.

History of the Name

The name "Davis" comes from a Swiss-German tourist who, according to local accounts, was swept into the falls during the 1960s. The exact details of the story vary by account, but the name has persisted. The Nepali name Patale Chhango reflects the Hindu cosmological concept of an underworld into which the water descends.

Getting There

Davis Falls is located on the road from Lakeside toward Pokhara Airport and the Siddhartha Highway. It is approximately 2 kilometres from the main Lakeside promenade. A taxi from Lakeside takes about 5-10 minutes. You can also walk or cycle along the main road. The falls are directly opposite Gupteshwor Cave, so most visitors see both sites in one trip.

Entry and Hours

An entry fee is charged at the gate. The site is open daily from morning until late afternoon; check with your accommodation for current hours as they vary by season. A small garden surrounds the viewing area above the falls.

What to See

The primary viewing platform looks down into the sinkhole and the churning water below. Steps lead to a lower level that gets closer to the waterfall. In the monsoon months, spray drifts up significantly — lightweight waterproofs are useful. The cave through which the water exits underground can be partially observed from the viewing area.

Best Season

Monsoon (June to September) produces the most dramatic waterfall. Dry months (November to May) bring lower water volume but clearer views into the sinkhole and caves. Many visitors prefer the shoulder months of October and early November when flow is still strong but the surroundings are green and clear after the rains.

FAQ

Q: Is Davis Falls safe to visit?

The viewing area has railings and safety barriers. Keep children within arm's reach at the lower platform. Do not attempt to descend beyond the marked areas, especially during monsoon when spray makes surfaces slippery.

Q: Can I visit Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Cave on the same trip?

Yes. The entrance to Gupteshwor Cave is directly across the road. Most visitors combine both in a single visit lasting about 1.5 hours in total.