pokhri

Pokhri is a toponym of South Asian origin, derived from the Nepali and related languages, meaning a pond or lake. The term is used across Nepal and northern India to name villages, towns, and neighborhoods that historically centered around a water body or spring. In many communities, the pond serves as a source of irrigation, a site for drinking water, and a cultural or religious focal point, around which local activities and rituals are organized.

Geographically, Pokhri appears in multiple districts and states across the Nepalese and Indian subcontinent, especially in hilly and Terai regions where ponds are common. The spelling Pokhri or Pokhari reflects transliteration variations from Nepali, Kumaoni, Bhojpuri, and Hindi, and the exact pronunciation may vary by locality.

Architectural and demographic characteristics vary, but settlements named Pokhri are often small and rural, with economies based on farming, animal husbandry, and local crafts. In some cases, the pond has been expanded or fortified as part of community-led water management projects, contributing to local resilience during dry seasons.

Because Pokhri is a common place-name element, refer to the specific district or province when seeking information about a particular Pokhri. In Nepal, for example, it can denote villages in various districts; in India, it appears in several states, sometimes integrated into larger municipal areas.