Ticcha Mahadev (Ratnachudeshwar Mahadev) is a well-known pilgrimage place in Nagarkot-6. Ratnachud Danda, sometimes called Ratnagiri Pahad, was Nagarkot‘s previous name. Ratnachudeshwar Mahadev is the name of the Lord Mahadev who lives on the same mountain. Mahadev Pokhari is the name of the pond on this Lord Mahadev’s property. Devotees worship Lord Shiva (Mahadev) at this serene religious and cultural center, offering prayers, flowers, incense, and customary offerings.
After drinking the Kalkut poison that was discharged by the ocean’s churning, Lord Mahadev was unable to handle the poison and wandered aimlessly. Lord Mahadev created rivers and streams as well as a variety of water sources after arriving at Ratnachud Hill. “When the pond became small and the poison could not be absorbed, Lord Mahadev again went toward the present Gosainkunda and slept in the Gosainkunda formed by breaking the mountain cliff with his trident and making the Trishuli River flow.” This is why the pond was named Mahadev Pokhari.
Another common misconception is that bathing in this pond in Nagarkot is equivalent to visiting Gosainkunda if you are unable to reach Gosainkunda in Rasuwa district. On the day of Janai Purnima, this Mahadev Pokhari also hosts a fair that lasts until midnight. In Nepalbhasa, Mahadev Pokhari is known as Mahadyo: Pukhu; however, this Lord Mahadev is also known as Ticcha Mahadev.
Why visit Ticcha Mahadev?
- Religious significance: A shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Local heritage: Connected with the traditional religious landscape of Bhaktapur and Nagarkot.
- Peaceful setting: A quieter place for prayer and contemplation.
- Cultural photography: An interesting subject for documenting local architecture, rituals, and traditions.
- Festival experience: Lord Shiva-related observances can make the area particularly vibrant and culturally significant.
