Patale Chhango

Patale Chhango or Hell’s Falls, has accumulated many different names over the years. Located near the Pokhara airport, this attraction has become one of the most popular sights in Nepal. Also known as Devi’s Falls, David’s Falls, Devin Falls and Devis Falls, the name might take on different forms, but the sight remains the same. It is an area that is known for its beauty and tranquility, and the legend of the Devi’s Falls adds a touch of mystery and adventure to this sight.

Trying to put your finger on the correct version of the legend is like trying to understand which nickname was the original given to Patale Chhango. As with most legends that are connected to sights in Nepal and around the world, the story has been retold so many times, that the correct tale has been lost. One of the versions tells of a trekker or hiker that went by the name of David, Devin, Devi or Davis. The unfortunate hiker was swept away suddenly by the water and carried down into the underground passages and caves that run below the waterfall. The other tells the story of a Mrs Davi, a Swiss tourist in Nepal, who was swimming in the Fewa Lake. The dam unexpectedly started to overflow and Davi’s husband helplessly looked on while the waters swept his wife down the waterfall. This version took place in the year 1961 and the body of Mrs Davi was never recovered.

The water that feeds the Devi’s Falls comes from the Fewa (Phewa) Lake, which follows a rocky stream to eventually rush down the waterfall and disappear. This might sound unbelievable, but the passages that run under the ground are connected to the hole below the waterfall. The best times to view this spectacular sight is during the monsoon season when there is a high rainfall and the summer season. During these periods the water runs and plunges over rocks and through gorges, giving visitors a breathtaking show.

The landscape and nature that surrounds the Devi’s Falls is as spectacular as the waterfall and visitors will find many photographic opportunities at this sight. Visitors to thePokhara region are recommended to take a trip to Patale Chhango to hear the legend of the falls and enjoy a peaceful afternoon near the foaming water.