Nepal, a beautiful Himalayan country, is renowned for its majestic mountains, cultural heritage and unique wildlife. However, Nepal’s diverse geography also includes numerous mesmerizing lakes that attract visitors from around the world. From serene and tranquil to majestic and awe-inspiring, Nepal’s lakes offer unique experiences and breathtaking views. In this article, we’ll explore ten of the most stunning lakes in Nepal and what makes each one worth a visit.
- Phewa Lake
Located in the city of Pokhara, Phewa Lake is the second largest lake in Nepal and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The lake’s crystal clear water reflects the surrounding Annapurna mountain range, creating a stunning backdrop for boat rides, swimming, or just a relaxing walk around the lake’s perimeter. The Tal Barahi Temple, situated on an island in the middle of the lake, is also a popular attraction.
- Rara Lake
Rara Lake is the largest lake in Nepal and is situated in the remote Mugu district in western Nepal. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green hills, this serene lake offers a peaceful and tranquil experience for visitors. It is situated at an altitude of 2,990 meters above sea level, making it a popular destination for trekkers.
- Begnas Lake
Begnas Lake is another popular destination in Pokhara. This beautiful lake is surrounded by hills covered in dense forest, creating a serene and peaceful environment. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake or hike in the surrounding hills to explore the area’s natural beauty. The Begnas Lake Resort is a popular destination for those who want to stay near the lake.
- Tilicho Lake
Situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters above sea level, Tilicho Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world. This majestic lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a popular destination for trekkers. The lake’s pristine blue waters and breathtaking scenery make it an unforgettable experience for any visitor.
- Shey Phoksundo Lake
Shey Phoksundo Lake is located in the remote Dolpo region of Nepal and is one of the country’s most pristine lakes. The lake’s turquoise blue waters are surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan mountains, creating a stunning backdrop for trekkers and visitors. The surrounding area is also home to the Shey Phoksundo National Park, which offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Gokyo Lakes
Gokyo Lakes are a series of six high altitude lakes situated in the Sagarmatha National Park in the Everest region of Nepal. The turquoise blue water of these lakes contrasts sharply with the surrounding snow-capped mountains, creating a stunning view for visitors. The lakes are also home to unique wildlife such as snow leopards and musk deer.
- Gosainkunda Lake
Gosainkunda Lake is a sacred lake located in the Langtang region of Nepal. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. Visitors can take a trek to the lake and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
- Dudh Kunda Lake
Dudh Kunda Lake is a holy lake located in the Solu-Khumbu region of Nepal. The lake’s crystal clear water is said to be the source of the Dudh Koshi river. The surrounding area is also home to unique wildlife and offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains.
- Imja Tsho
Imja Tsho, also known as Imja Lake, is a glacial lake located in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal. At an altitude of 5,010 meters above sea level, it is one of the highest lakes in Nepal and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Island Peak. However, Imja Tsho is also a striking example of the impact of climate change on the Himalayan region, as it has grown significantly in size in recent years due to the melting of the glaciers. Efforts have been made to mitigate the risk of a catastrophic flood from the lake, including building a wall around the lake to prevent water overflow and installing a drainage system to lower the water level. Despite these concerns, Imja Tsho remains a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers who come to the area to explore its natural beauty.
