Popular Lakes in Nepal

Published On : 12th May, 2024 By Himalayan Dream Team

Nepal is not just home to some of the highest peaks in the world but also hosts an array of stunning lakes that offer breathtaking views and serene environments. Nestled among mountains and lush greenery, these lakes are spectacular natural wonders, each with its own unique charm and ecological significance. Here’s a guide to the top lakes in Nepal, from the popular to the pristine, each offering a picturesque escape into nature.

1. Phewa Lake

Location: Pokhara

Features: Phewa Lake is the second largest lake in Nepal and one of the most famous tourist attractions in the Pokhara Valley. The lake is famous for the reflection of Mount Machhapuchhre and other mountain peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges on its surface. The lake is also home to the sacred Tal Barahi Temple, located on an island in the middle of the lake.

Activities: Boating and kayaking are popular activities. Visitors often take rowboats to the island temple and also enjoy the lakeside atmosphere of Pokhara, with its cafes, shops, and vibrant nightlife.

2. Rara Lake

Location: Mugu District, Karnali Province

Features: Rara Lake, the largest lake in Nepal, is located in the remote Rara National Park. Known as the "Queen of Lakes," it offers pristine natural beauty, surrounded by alpine meadows and forests of pine, juniper, and spruce, while the area around the lake is a habitat for wildlife like the Himalayan black bear and red panda.

Activities: Trekking in the surrounding national park and boating in the lake itself are tranquil experiences, cherished by nature lovers seeking solitude away from the bustling tourist paths.

3. Begnas Lake

Location: Pokhara Valley

Features: Situated southeast of Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake is the third largest lake in Nepal and less crowded, offering a more peaceful and natural setting. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers clear views of the Annapurna range.

Activities: Fishing and boating are popular, as well as hikes around the lake which provide stunning views and encounters with local wildlife.

4. Gokyo Lakes

Location: Solukhumbu District

Features: The Gokyo Lakes are a system of six high-altitude lakes situated at an altitude of between 4,700 and 5,000 meters, making them some of the highest freshwater lake systems in the world. They are set against a backdrop of massive snow-covered peaks, including Mount Everest and Cho Oyu.

Activities: The area is a popular trekking destination, part of the Everest Base Camp trek, offering some of the most dramatic landscapes in the region. The lakes are considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists.

5. Tilicho Lake

Location: Manang District

Features: Located at an altitude of 4,919 meters, Tilicho Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world. It lies in the Annapurna range of the Himalayas and is known for its vivid turquoise waters.

Activities: The lake is reached via a challenging trek through the Annapurna Circuit, attracting adventurous travelers willing to undertake the rigorous journey for spectacular scenic rewards.

6. Shey Phoksundo Lake

Location: Dolpa District

Features: Shey Phoksundo Lake is noted for its stunning turquoise color and dramatic mountain backdrop. It is the deepest lake in Nepal and lies in the Shey Phoksundo National Park, known for its spectacular and remote landscapes.

Activities: Trekking to the lake provides a unique insight into the ecological diversity and cultural richness of the Dolpa region, which has managed to retain a lot of its traditional Tibetan culture.

7. Gosainkunda Lake

Location: Rasuwa District

Features: This alpine freshwater oligotrophic lake is a significant place of pilgrimage, situated at an altitude of about 4,380 meters. According to Hindu mythology, it was created by Lord Shiva when he thrust his trident into a mountain to draw water to quench his thirst after consuming poison.

Activities: The trek to Gosainkunda during the annual Janai Purnima festival is particularly popular, blending spiritual practices with adventure tourism.

These lakes are not only a testament to Nepal’s natural beauty but are also culturally important to the local communities and offer varied opportunities for ecotourism and adventure. Each lake provides a unique experience, from leisurely boat rides and rigorous treks to spiritual pilgrimages, making Nepal a top destination for travelers seeking both tranquility and adventure amidst nature’s finest views.