Lakes in Nepal are natural water bodies found throughout the country, ranging from serene, high-altitude alpine lakes to tranquil lakes in the lowland Terai region. Nepal’s lakes are known for their stunning beauty, spiritual significance, and ecological diversity. Nepal, known for its majestic Himalayas and rich cultural heritage, is also home to some of the most stunning lakes in the world. From high-altitude serene spots surrounded by snow-capped peaks to tranquil lakes nestled in lush valleys, these lakes are not just picturesque but also have deep spiritual and cultural significance. In this guide, we’ll explore the Top 5 Lakes to Visit in Nepal, sharing key attractions, how to get there, estimated budgets, and tips to help you make the most of your visit to these magnificent destinations.
Top 5 Lakes in Nepal
1. Phewa Lake (Pokhara)
Why Visit:
Phewa Lake, located in the heart of Pokhara, is one of Nepal’s most popular tourist destinations. Its scenic beauty, coupled with the tranquil setting, makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature. The lake is a great spot for boating, and the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Annapurna range, add to its charm. The iconic Tal Barahi Temple, situated on an island in the lake, is another key attraction that makes this place a must-visit.
Key Attractions:
- Tal Barahi Temple: A two-story pagoda temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Barahi, located on a small island in the center of the lake.
- Boating: You can rent a boat and paddle around the lake, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery.
- Sunset Views: Phewa Lake offers one of the best spots to witness a mesmerizing sunset over the mountains.
How to Get There:
Pokhara is easily accessible by both road and air from Kathmandu. The drive takes about 6-7 hours, while flights take approximately 30 minutes. From Pokhara, you can easily reach Phewa Lake by taxi or a short walk from the city center.
Estimated Budget:
- Transportation (Kathmandu to Pokhara): $10–$30 by bus; $100–$150 by flight.
- Boating: $5–$10 per hour for a boat ride.
- Accommodation: Budget options start at $10 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost around $40–$70 per night.
Tips for Travelers:
- Take a boat ride in the early morning for a peaceful experience and to capture stunning photos of the surrounding mountains reflecting on the lake.
- Phewa Lake can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, so plan your visit early in the day or late in the evening for a more serene experience.
2. Rara Lake (Mugu District)
Why Visit:
Rara Lake is one of Nepal’s largest and most pristine lakes, located in the remote Mugu District in the far northwest. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush forests, it’s often referred to as the “Queen of Nepalese Lakes.” Rara is a peaceful destination for trekkers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Its untouched beauty and serene environment make it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Key Attractions:
- Rara National Park: The lake is situated within this park, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered red panda, Himalayan black bear, and various bird species.
- Trekking around Rara Lake: The trek around the lake offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and is an excellent opportunity for wildlife spotting.
- Local Villages: Explore the small local villages around the lake and get a taste of the rural Nepali lifestyle.
How to Get There:
Rara Lake is quite remote, and the best way to reach it is by taking a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Mugu. From Mugu, it’s a multi-day trek to reach the lake. The trekking trail can be quite challenging, so it’s recommended for experienced trekkers.
Estimated Budget:
- Flights (Kathmandu to Nepalgunj to Mugu): Around $150–$250 for round-trip flights.
- Trekking: Expect to pay for a guided trek (around $20–$40 per day for guides and porters).
- Accommodation: Basic teahouses along the trekking route, with prices around $5–$10 per night.
Tips for Travelers:
- Due to the remote location, it’s essential to be physically prepared for the trek. Make sure to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
- You can also camp around Rara Lake for a more immersive experience, though it’s advisable to hire a guide who is familiar with the area.
3. Gosaikunda Lake (Langtang National Park)
Why Visit:
Gosaikunda Lake is a sacred alpine lake located at an altitude of 4,380 meters in the Langtang National Park. It’s a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, particularly during the Janai Purnima festival. The lake is surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, making it one of the most sought-after trekking destinations in Nepal. The spiritual significance combined with the natural beauty attracts thousands of trekkers and pilgrims each year.
Key Attractions:
- Sacred Pilgrimage Site: Gosaikunda is believed to be the abode of Hindu gods and goddesses. Pilgrims often come here to bathe in the lake’s sacred waters.
- Trekking to Gosaikunda: The trek to Gosaikunda offers incredible views of the Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, and other peaks. The route takes you through dense forests, high mountain passes, and picturesque villages.
- Scenic Views of the Langtang Range: From Gosaikunda, trekkers are treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks, including Langtang Lirung, the highest peak in the Langtang range.
How to Get There:
To reach Gosaikunda, take a bus or private vehicle from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, which takes around 7-8 hours. From there, the trekking route begins, taking approximately 5-7 days to reach Gosaikunda Lake.
Estimated Budget:
- Transportation (Kathmandu to Syabrubesi): $10–$30 by bus.
- Trekking: A guide and porter will cost around $20–$40 per day.
- Accommodation: Teahouse accommodations cost around $5–$10 per night.
Tips for Travelers:
- Gosaikunda is at a high altitude, so proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.
- The trek can be physically demanding, so ensure you have the necessary fitness levels and equipment for the journey.
4. Shey Phoksundo Lake
Why Visit:
Shey Phoksundo Lake, located in the remote Dolpo region, is one of the most stunning high-altitude lakes in Nepal. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic mountain backdrop, and spiritual significance, it is a must-visit for nature lovers and trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Key Attractions:
- Shey Phoksundo National Park: The lake lies within this park, which is home to unique flora and fauna, including snow leopards and blue sheep.
- Phoksundo Waterfall: The lake is near one of Nepal’s tallest waterfalls, offering dramatic views and photo opportunities.
- Tibetan Culture: The area is steeped in Tibetan Buddhist culture, with monasteries like Ringmo Monastery offering spiritual and cultural insights.
How to Get There:
To reach Shey Phoksundo Lake, you must first fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj or Juphal (via Dolpo). From Juphal, it’s a multi-day trek through rugged terrain, taking about 5-7 days to reach the lake.
Estimated Budget:
- Transportation (Kathmandu to Nepalgunj to Juphal): Around $200–$300 for flights.
- Trekking: Guide and porter services cost around $25–$40 per day.
- Accommodation: Basic teahouses and lodges along the trek cost around $10–$20 per night.
Tips for Travelers:
- The trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake is physically demanding, so it’s recommended for experienced trekkers.
- Make sure to acclimatize properly due to the high altitude to avoid altitude sickness.
- Plan ahead as the Dolpo region is remote and requires permits that need to be arranged in advance.
5. Tilicho lake
Why Visit:
Tilicho Lake, located in the Annapurna Circuit, is one of the highest lakes in the world, sitting at an altitude of 4,919 meters. Its breathtaking beauty, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain, makes it a must-visit destination for trekkers and adventurers. The lake is often considered a highlight of the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Key Attractions:
- Tilicho Lake: The main attraction is the lake itself, with its deep blue waters and stunning mountain backdrop, offering incredible photo opportunities.
- Annapurna Massif Views: The trek to Tilicho Lake offers panoramic views of the Annapurna range, including Annapurna I, Manaslu, and Machapuchare.
- Tilicho Base Camp: Trekking to the base camp provides a close-up view of the lake and surrounding glaciers, making it a memorable experience for high-altitude trekkers.
How to Get There:
To reach Tilicho Lake, you must first travel to Besisahar (7-8 hours by bus from Kathmandu), and then continue to Chame. From here, the trek begins, passing through villages and challenging terrain, taking about 6-8 days to reach the lake.
Estimated Budget:
- Transportation (Kathmandu to Besisahar): Around $10–$30 by bus.
- Trekking: A guide and porter will cost around $25–$40 per day.
- Accommodation: Teahouses along the trek cost around $10–$20 per night.
Tips for Travelers:
- Due to the high altitude, it’s essential to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
- The trail can be challenging, especially during the monsoon season, so make sure to check weather conditions before embarking on the trek.
- Carry enough warm clothing, as the temperature at the lake can drop significantly, even in summer.
Highlights
- Lakes in Nepal are some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, with lakes in Nepal offering serene landscapes and spiritual significance.
- From lakes in Nepal like Phewa Lake in Pokhara to the high-altitude beauty of Rara Lake, lakes in Nepal are diverse and unique.
- Many lakes in Nepal are sacred, such as Gosaikunda Lake, which attracts thousands of pilgrims each year for religious rituals around lakes in Nepal.
- Exploring lakes in Nepal offers trekkers the chance to experience stunning views of mountains and valleys that are often found near these lakes in Nepal.
- Whether it’s the peaceful lakes in Nepal that lie in remote areas or the easily accessible ones, like Phewa Lake, lakes in Nepal always offer a sense of calm.
- The ecological importance of lakes in Nepal cannot be overstated, as they provide habitat for various species, making lakes in Nepal a haven for wildlife.
- Some of the most beautiful lakes in Nepal are located at high altitudes, offering trekkers a challenge and a chance to explore hidden gems like Rara Lake and Gosaikunda Lake among other lakes in Nepal.
- Lakes in Nepal like Rara Lake are often remote, but they reward travelers with incredible views, making lakes in Nepal a bucket-list item for many.
- Many of the lakes in Nepal are part of national parks, with lakes in Nepal contributing to the country’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.
- If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, the lakes in Nepal offer the perfect spots to unwind and reconnect with nature, with lakes in Nepal providing a tranquil environment.
Conclusion
Nepal’s lakes are among the most beautiful and serene destinations in the world. From the tranquil waters of Phewa Lake in Pokhara to the sacred and picturesque Gosaikunda Lake, each of these lakes offers something unique. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, nature lover, or spiritual seeker, these lakes provide unforgettable experiences. Plan your trip wisely, follow the provided tips, and get ready for an incredible journey exploring the lakes of Nepal.