Discover Serene Lakes in Nepal – Nature’s Beauty Unveiled

Nepal is a land of natural beauty and diversity. You can witness the majestic Himalayas, the green valleys, the rich culture, and the vibrant cities. But among all these wonders, one feature stands out: the lakes. Nepal has more than 200 lakes of various shapes, sizes, and altitudes. These lakes are not only sources of water but also of life, culture, and spirituality.

Some of these lakes are well-known for their scenic beauty, such as Phewa Lake in Pokhara or Rara Lake in Mugu. Others are revered for their religious significance, such as Gosaikunda Lake in Langtang or Panch Pokhari in Sindhupalchowk. Some are important for their ecological roles, such as Gokyo Lakes in Everest or Shey Phoksundo Lake in Dolpo. These lakes attract thousands of visitors annually, who enjoy their colors, views, and stories.

But there are also many other lakes in Nepal that are less explored but equally beautiful and fascinating. These lakes are hidden gems that offer a unique and adventurous experience for those who seek them. They are located in remote and high-altitude regions, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pristine nature. These lakes have their charm and mystery, waiting for curious travelers.

In this blog, we will explore and showcase 10 of the most beautiful lakes in Nepal that you must visit. These lakes will amaze you with their features, attractions, and legends. Whether looking for a relaxing getaway, a thrilling adventure, or a spiritual journey, these lakes will offer you an unforgettable experience. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the 10 most beautiful lakes in Nepal.

Rara Lake: The Largest Lake in Nepal

If you want to see the largest in Nepal, you have to visit Rara Lake. Rara Lake is located in the remote Mugu district in the Karnali province, at an elevation of 2,990 meters above sea level. It covers an area of 10.8 square kilometers and has a maximum depth of 167 meters. To reach Rara Lake, you have two options: either take a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj airport and then another flight to Talcha airport, followed by a short hike, or take a bus from Kathmandu to Surkhet or Jumla, and then trek for several days through the rugged terrain.

Rara Lake is surrounded by Rara National Park, the smallest national park in Nepal. The park is home to various species of flora and fauna, including endangered ones like the red panda, musk deer, and snow leopard. The park also hosts more than 200 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Some birds you can spot at Rara Lake are the Himalayan monal, the great crested grebe, the coot, and the snow cock.

Rara Lake is a natural beauty that offers a serene experience for visitors. The lake has a clear blue color that changes with the seasons and the sunlight. The lake also provides a stunning view of the snow-capped mountains of Sinje and Kanjirowa. You can enjoy boating or hiking around the lake to explore its natural beauty and cultural diversity. Rara Lake is also a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists who believe that it is a manifestation of Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.

Gokyo Lakes: The Sacred and Scenic Lakes in the Everest Region

Gokyo Lakes are a group of six glacial lakes in the Everest region, at an altitude of 4,700 to 5,000 meters above sea level. They are the highest freshwater lake system in the world. The lakes are considered sacred by Hindus and Buddhists, who believe they are the abode of the gods Shiva and Gauri.

Gokyo Lakes offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The lakes have varying colors and shapes, ranging from turquoise to emerald, from oval to crescent. The lakes are connected by streams and waterfalls, creating a harmonious and beautiful landscape. Near the lakes, you can also see the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas.

The best way to experience Gokyo Lakes is by trekking. Several trekking trails lead to Gokyo Lakes, such as the Everest Base Camp trek, the Gokyo Valley trek, and the Three Passes trek. The trek’s highest point to Gokyo Lakes is Gokyo Ri, a vantage point for panoramic views of the lakes and the mountains. You can also visit the Gokyo village, a small settlement near the third lake. The village has some lodges and tea houses that cater to trekkers.

Tilicho Lake: One of the Highest Lakes in the World

As we have seen, Nepal has many lakes at high altitudes and offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. One of these lakes is Tilicho Lake, a turquoise gem in the Annapurna region. Tilicho Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world and lies at an elevation of 4,919 meters above sea level. It covers an area of 4.8 square kilometers and is fed by the melting snow and ice from the surrounding mountains, such as Tilicho Peak, Nilgiri Himal, and Annapurna Range.

Tilicho Lake is a natural beauty and a pilgrimage site for Hindus. Many Hindu devotees visit Tilicho Lake to pay their respects and seek blessings from Shiva and Sita. Tilicho Lake is also a popular destination for trekkers who want to experience the beauty and challenge of the Annapurna region. The lake is connected to the famous Annapurna Circuit trek, one of Nepal’s most popular and challenging treks. The trek to Tilicho Lake takes about 4 to 5 days from Manang village, passing through scenic villages, forests, and pastures. The walk also offers a breathtaking view of the Annapurna massif and Dhaulagiri mountain.

Tilicho Lake is a turquoise gem that will mesmerize you with its color, shape, and reflection. You can enjoy camping near the lake or hiking to explore its surroundings. Tilicho Lake is where you can witness the beauty and spirituality of Nepal.

Shey Phoksundo Lake: A Deep Blue Oasis in Dolpo

Another lake that will captivate you with its beauty and mystery is Shey Phoksundo Lake, a deep blue oasis in the Dolpo region. Shey Phoksundo Lake is an alpine freshwater lake in the Dolpa district of Nepal, at 3,612 meters above sea level. It is the deepest lake in Nepal, with a depth of 145 meters, and covers an area of 4.94 square kilometers. The lake lies within the Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest and only trans-Himalayan national park. The park hosts a rich biodiversity of plants and animals, including rare and endangered species like the snow leopard, blue sheep, Tibetan wolf, and Himalayan tahr.

Shey Phoksundo Lake is a natural beauty and cultural and spiritual site for the local people, who follow the ancient Bon religion. Bon is a pre-Buddhist religion that originated in Tibet and is similar to Tibetan Buddhism. The lake is considered one of the holiest places for Bon followers, as it is believed to be the home of a powerful goddess called Yungdrungmo. The lake also has a famous waterfall near its outlet.

Shey Phoksundo Lake has a unique deep blue color and crystal-clear waters that contrast with the arid landscape around it. The lake also offers a view of the Kanjirowa Himal range and other peaks. You can enjoy camping near the lake or hiking to explore its surroundings. Shey Phoksundo Lake is also a popular destination for trekkers who visit the Dolpo region and the Upper Dolpo trek.

Tsho Rolpa Lake: A Glacial Lake in the Rolwaling Valley

Tsho Rolpa Lake, also known as Cho Rolpa, is one of Nepal’s largest and highest glacial lakes, located at an elevation of 4,580 meters above sea level. The lake covers an area of 1.65 square kilometers and has a maximum depth of 102 meters. The lake is formed by melting the Trakarding Glacier and the Drolambau Glacier, which are part of the Gaurishankar Himal range.

Tsho Rolpa Lake is where you can witness the effects of climate change and its impact on the Himalayan glaciers. The lake has grown significantly over the past 50 years due to ice and snow melting. The lake poses a threat of glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF). Various agencies and organizations have monitored and controlled the lake to prevent such disasters.

Similarly, Tsho Rolpa Lake is also a place where you can experience the beauty and culture of the Rolwaling Valley, one of Nepal’s most remote and isolated regions. The valley is home to the Sherpa people, who follow a unique blend of Buddhism and Bon religion. The valley also has some ancient monasteries worth visiting, such as the Bigu Gompa and the Thubten Choling Gompa.

The best way to reach Tsho Rolpa Lake is by trekking from Chetchet, which is about 195 kilometers from Kathmandu. You can take a bus or a private vehicle from Kathmandu to Chetchet, which takes about 8 hours. From Chetchet, you can start your trek to Tsho Rolpa Lake, which takes about 5 to 6 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization. The trek passes through scenic villages, forests, pastures, and glaciers. The trek also offers a view of some of the highest peaks in Nepal, such as Gaurishankar (7,134 meters), Melungtse (7,181 meters), and Ramdung (5,925 meters).

Phewa Lake: A Tranquil and Vibrant Lake in Pokhara

After exploring some of Nepal’s high-altitude and remote lakes, let’s shift our focus to a more accessible and famous lake in Pokhara: Phewa Lake. Phewa Lake is a freshwater lake in Pokhara city of Nepal, located 742 meters above sea level. It is the second-largest lake in Nepal and covers an area of 5.23 square kilometers. The lake is a major tourist attraction in Pokhara, as it offers various activities and attractions for visitors.

Phewa Lake is a tranquil and vibrant lake that offers a spectacular view of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre (6,993 meters), which reflect on its surface on clear days. The lake also has a small island that houses the Tal Barahi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Durga. Many Hindu devotees visit the temple daily, and take a boat ride to reach the island. The lake also has a dam on its eastern side, which regulates the water level and generates electricity.

Phewa Lake is a place where you can enjoy nature and relax. You can take a boat ride on the lake or rent a bicycle or a scooter to explore its surroundings. You can also visit the World Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist stupa on a hilltop near the lake. The pagoda offers a panoramic view of the lake and the mountains. Phewa Lake is also a hub for adventure sports such as paragliding, zip-lining, bungee jumping, etc.

Begnas Lake: A Serene and Peaceful Lake near Pokhara

Another lake you can visit near Pokhara is Begnas Lake, a serene and peaceful lake in the Lekhnath municipality of Nepal. Begnas Lake is at 650 meters above sea level and covers an area of 3.28 square kilometers. The lake is smaller than Phewa Lake but less crowded and more natural. The lake is used for irrigation and fish farming by the local people. Begnas also has several resorts and hotels that cater to tourists who want to enjoy nature and relax.

Begnas Lake is where you can witness the beauty and diversity of Nepal’s landscapes. Green hills surround the lake and offers a view of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre. The lake has clear and calm water that invites you to take a dip or a boat ride. You can also visit the Begnas Bazaar, a small market near the lake where you can buy local products and souvenirs.

Begnas Lake is where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the tranquility and simplicity of rural life. You can take a walk around the lake or rent a bicycle or a scooter to explore its surroundings. You can also visit nearby attractions, such as Rupa Lake, another beautiful lake in the same municipality.

Gosaikunda Lake: A Sacred Sanctuary in the Langtang Region

Now let’s move on to a more sacred and spectacular lake in the Langtang region: Gosaikunda Lake. Gosaikunda Lake is a lake in the Rasuwa district of Nepal, located 4,380 meters above sea level. It is one of Nepal’s most famous pilgrimage sites, as it is believed to be the abode of the Hindu god Shiva and his consort Gauri. 

According to the legend, when Shiva drank the poison from the churning, he became thirsty and struck his trident on a rock, creating Gosaikunda Lake. The lake also has healing properties and can cleanse one’s sins and diseases. Many Hindu devotees visit Gosaikunda Lake during the Janai Purnima festival in August. They take a holy dip in the lake and change their sacred threads.

Gosaikunda Lake is also a place where you can enjoy the beauty and adventure of the Langtang region. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains such as Langtang Lirung (7,227 meters), Ganesh Himal (7,422 meters), and Manaslu (8,156 meters). The lake has clear and cold water that freezes in winter. You can enjoy camping near the lake or hiking to explore its surroundings. Gosaikunda Lake is also connected to several trekking trails, such as the Langtang Valley Trek, the Helambu Trek, and the Gosainkunda Trek.

Birendra Lake: A Glacial Lake near the Manaslu Base Camp

Another pristine lake you can visit is Birendra Lake in the Manaslu region, a glacial lake near the Manaslu base camp. Birendra Lake is located in the Gorkha district of Nepal, at an elevation of 3,691 meters above sea level. It lies near the Manaslu Glacier. The lake covers an area of 0.29 square kilometers and has a maximum depth of 32 meters.

Birendra Lake is where you can witness the beauty and adventure of the Manaslu region. The lake is blue-green and reflects the surrounding peaks on its surface. The lake also offers a view of the Manaslu Glacier and the Tibetan border. You can enjoy camping near the lake or hiking to explore its surroundings. Birendra Lake is also a popular destination for trekkers who visit the Manaslu region and base camp.

Birendra Lake is where you can experience the beauty and diversity of Nepal’s high-altitude life and nature. You can see the local people and their culture, as well as the flora and fauna of the region. You pass through Samagaon village, a traditional Sherpa village where you can stay and rejuvenate. One can also visit Pungyen Gompa, a Buddhist monastery with a stunning view of Manaslu.

Panch Pokhari: A Group of Five Holy Lakes

Panch Pokhari, meaning “Five Lakes,” is a group of five holy lakes in the Sindhupalchowk district at an elevation of 4,100 meters. The lakes are named after the Hindu god Shiva and his four sons: Surya, Chandra, Basuki, and Nagendra. The lakes are also a pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists visiting them during the Janai Purnima festival in August.

Panch Pokhari is a place where you can witness the beauty and spirituality of Nepal’s Himalayan region. The lakes are surrounded by snow-capped mountains, such as the Jugal Himal range, including Dorje Lakpa (6,966 meters) and Madiya (6,257 meters). The lakes have clear and cold water that reflects the surrounding peaks on their surface. You can enjoy camping near the lakes or hiking around them to explore their surroundings.

Panch Pokhari is where you can discover the hidden treasures of Nepal’s nature and culture. You can see the local people and their traditions, as well as the flora and fauna of the region. You can also visit Thangpal Dhap village, a historical village with ancient houses and temples, or Bhotang village, a scenic village with terraced fields and orchards.

Conclusion

As we’ve journeyed through the diverse landscapes of Nepal, we’ve uncovered lakes that reflect the sky like mirrors, lakes cradled by towering peaks, and lakes that have stood witness to centuries of spiritual devotion. Each lake has a story to tell – stories of geology, spirituality, and the enduring bond between nature and humanity.

Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or a natural beauty lover, Nepal’s lakes offer an enchanting palette of experiences. The vibrant cultures that thrive around these lakes remind us of the delicate balance between preservation and exploration.