7 Most Beautiful Lakes in Nepal

Best Lakes in Nepal offers you stunning natural beauty and cultural immersion. Some include Rara Lake, Gokyo Lake, Gosaikunda Lake, and many more. Nepal is a landlocked country rich in scenic beauty. With thousands of lakes to explore, each of them offers you with its charm and allure. Nepal has something for everyone, from lakes in the lower region to those requiring trekking for a few days in high altitudes.

Here is the list of the top 7 best lakes in Nepal you can visit while exploring the country.

Top 7 Best Lakes In Nepal

1. Rara Lake

• Location: Mugu District, Karnali Province, Nepal
• Area: Approximately 10.4 square kilometers
• Depth: 167 meters
• Altitude: 2,990 meters (9,810 feet)
• Days: 16 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate [Beginner Friendly]
• Significance: A serene and remote destination, Rara Lake is a key attraction for trekkers and nature lovers.

The largest lake in Nepal, Rara Lake, is located in the remote location of Mugu District. Considered to be quite challenging to complete, the Rara Lake requires a hike through high passes, rugged terrain, and off-the-beaten paths. Completing this journey can take about 16 days. But we assure you, due to its challenging features and fewer visits among the people, you will witness Nepal’s raw and untouched beauty upon reaching the destination.

Your journey starts with a short flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla, which is the starting point of the trek. Taking this trail, you will see the beautiful pristine blue water surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The major highlight of the trek is the panoramic views of the surrounding areas from Chuchemara Danda. Throughout the Rara Lake trek, you will also have a chance to experience local Thakali and Tibetan culture. Immersing in their traditions, you can deeply understand local people and the beautiful views of the surrounding lake and landscapes.

Unique Features:

• Largest and deepest freshwater lake in Nepal.
• Surrounded by Rara National Park, home to rare wildlife like the red panda and snow leopard.
• Crystal-clear blue waters reflect snow-capped mountains.

2. Gokyo Lakes

• Location: Solukhumbu District, Province No. 1, Nepal
• Area: The Gokyo Lakes system consists of six main lakes.
• Depth: Varied, with the largest lake, Thonak Lake, at 62.4 meters
• Altitude: Approximately 4,700 meters (15,400 feet)
• Days: 10 Days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate [Beginner Friendly]
• Significance: Gokyo Lakes are a sacred and scenic highlight of the Gokyo Valley trek.

If you are looking for a trek in the Everest Region that will take you to the beautiful pristine lake while offering views of the Highest Mountain in the world, then the Gokyo Lake trek is for you. Requiring about 10 days of hiking, this trek follows the opposite route to the famous Everest Base Camp Trek. To start your journey, you can take a short drive towards Ramechhaph and take a flight for about 15 minutes towards Lukla. Lukla is where your trekking journey starts.

Throughout the trek, you will be amazed by the beautiful surrounding landscapes and views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and more. You can also witness the diverse flora and fauna in the Sagarmatha National Park. Upon reaching the top, you will see beautiful Gokyo Lakes. Exemplifying the scenic beauty, there are a total of 6 lakes which you can see from there. Make sure you visit in March, April, and May, as the lake may be covered with snow in the other 9 months. Imagine 6 beautiful lakes reflecting the beautiful surrounding views. Isn’t it eye-pleasing?

Unique Features:

• Highest freshwater lake system in the world.
• Turquoise waters contrast with Himalayan peaks.
• Gokyo Ri offers panoramic views of Mount Everest.

3. Tilicho Lake

• Location: Manang District, Gandaki Province, Nepal
• Area: Approximately 4.8 square kilometers
• Depth: Not precisely documented, but relatively shallow
• Altitude: 4,919 meters (16,138 feet)
• Days: 15 Days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate [ Beginner Friendly]
• Significance: Tilicho Lake is a sacred destination for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit.

Considered to be one of the most popular treks in the Annapurna Region, Tilicho Lake is the highest lake in Nepal. This is also one of the journeys that requires trekking. With about 15 days of hiking, you can complete the Tilicho Lake trek while witnessing the beautiful snow-capped mountains of that region. Upon reaching the lake, you will witness the beautiful clear water reflecting stunning surrounding landscapes and mountains. Also, you can see various migratory birds and aquatic animals here.

You can complete this trek in 5 days if you want an alternative short option. To do this, you can take a jeep ride to reach Manang. From there, you can trek to Shree Kharkha and make your final journey the next day towards Tilicho Lake. But we advise you to take a longer route for the best itinerary, better views, and a chance to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty in-depth. With some challenges, you can complete the trek with a good fitness level; hence, no prior trekking experience is necessary.

Unique Features:

• One of the highest lakes in the world.
• Surrounded by rugged mountains, including Tilicho Peak.
• Isolated and serene, it is ideal for adventure seekers.

4. Gosaikunda Lake

• Location: Rasuwa District, Bagmati Province, Nepal
• Area: Approximately 0.13 square kilometers
• Depth: 13 meters
• Altitude: 4,380 meters (14,370 feet)
• Days: 13 Days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate [ Can be quite challenging for beginners]
• Significance: Gosaikunda Lake is a sacred pilgrimage site and a popular trekking destination.

Starting from Syaburbesi, you can reach the Gosaikunda Lake within 13 days of your journey. By going through remote, off-the-beaten paths, you will cross lush forests, rugged terrains, and many remote Tamang villages. This Langtang Gosaikunda Lake trek is popular as it perfectly blends natural beauty with a rich cultural experience. The Gosaikundas Lake is popular among people and takes you through many high-altitude meadows while offering views of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges.

When you arrive at the location, you will see several small lakes combined to form Gosaikunda Lake. In addition, Gosaikunda Lake has religious significance and draws the greatest number of visitors during Janai Purnima. You must be in good physical shape for this moderately difficult hike because it is steep and rugged terrain. The return journey offers you a natural hot spring. Here, you can relax and rejuvenate while witnessing the beautiful surrounding views.

Unique Features:

• Crystal-clear waters surrounded by high mountains.
• Part of Langtang National Park offers stunning views.
• Freezes in winter, creating a magical landscape.

5. Phoksundo Lake

• Location: Dolpa District, Karnali Province, Nepal
• Area: Approximately 4.94 square kilometers
• Depth: 145 meters
• Altitude: 3,611 meters (11,849 feet)
• Days: 27 Days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate [ Can be quite challenging for beginners]
• Significance: Phoksundo Lake is the Dolpo region’s sacred and scenic highlight.

Shey Phoksundo is a breathtaking turquoise-colored lake and a virgin lake in Nepal. As with other lake treks, you must hike for several days to reach this fantastic destination. This Phoksundo Lake trek, lying in the country’s remoteness, is considered a challenging route that one can only finish if one is in good physical condition. If lucky enough, with the taking of this trial, you can catch a glimpse of the elusive snow leopard and the musk deer, both endangered animals.

You will pass through many villages uphill and downhill until you set your eyes on a crystal clear lake reflecting surrounding cliffs and snow-capped peaks. One great view worth all your challenges. The dramatic landscape around the lake is simply real. Cliffs rise sharply from the water’s edge, with the iconic Kanjiroba Himal providing a stunning backdrop.

Unique Features:

• The deepest lake in Nepal with striking turquoise waters.
• Located within Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to diverse wildlife.
• Rich cultural heritage with ancient monasteries and Tibetan villages.

6. Panch Pokhari

• Location: Sindhupalchowk District, Bagmati Province, Nepal
• Area: The Panch Pokhari consists of five main lakes.
• Depth: Varied, with no precise measurement available.
• Altitude: Approximately 4,100 meters (13,450 feet)
• Days: 5 Days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate [ Beginner Friendly]
• Significance: Panch Pokhari is a tranquil and sacred site for pilgrims and trekkers.

A combination of 5 sacred lakes, Panch Pokhari, is in the remote destination of Sindhupalchowk district. It is the world’s 9th altitude wetland. This trek is popular among Hindu and Buddhist people as it holds significance to these communities. You will pass through the area’s remote, untouched natural beauty and views of beautiful snow-capped mountains. Also, this region is perfect for you to see various types of flora and fauna. To reach Panch Pokhari, you can start your journey from Kathmandu towards Chhyachu, a starting point for your hiking.

Upon reaching the destination, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of those 5 lakes that reflect the stunning views of the Gauri Shanker and Langtang Himal Ranges. The bank of the lake is a popular spot for camping too. This place is mainly visited during Janai Purnima, which falls in August and is the best season for trekking in any Himalayas in Nepal. It is perfect if you want a blend of beautiful scenery, cultural villages, and remote atmosphere. Be ready and indulge in this beautiful trekking journey while witnessing the Langtang massifs.

Unique Features:

• Comprises five sacred lakes.
• Surrounded by pristine alpine landscapes, including meadows and forests.
• Remote and less frequented, offering solitude and serenity.

7. Phewa Lake

• Location: Pokhara, Kaski District, Gandaki Province, Nepal
• Area: Approximately 4.43 square kilometers
• Depth: 24 meters
• Altitude: 742 meters (2,434 feet)
• Days: 1 Day
• Difficulty Level: Easy [ Any age group]
• Significance: Phewa Lake is a central attraction in Pokhara, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

The famous and easily accessible Lake, Phewa Lake, is in the middle of the Pokhara Valley. You can reach the city from Kathmandu by ride or flight. It is a short drive from the airport or bus stand to the Lakeside. Upon arrival in this vibrant city, you will see beautiful views of Phewa Lake. The Bank of the Lake is a favorite tourist sport, and you will find many cafes, restaurants, shops, and a bustling market.

You can enjoy a short boat ride in the Phewa Lake and reach the Tal Barahi Temple in the middle of the Lake. You don’t need a great physique to see this beautiful lake. However, it can be a starting point for a short hiking journey towards World Peace Pagoda if you are into more adventure. This lake, which costs $50, can easily be explored, including the boat costs and meals you try.

Unique Features:

• The second-largest lake in Nepal.
• Reflects the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges.
• Features the Tal Barahi Temple on an island.

The Significance of Lakes Aside from Scenic Beauty

Lakes in Nepal hold significant value and do not just offer beautiful, eye-capturing natural beauty. They have a crucial role in the local ecosystem. They support diverse wildlife and plant life. Visiting lakes in Nepal offers you a variety of birds, fish, and other aquatic animals, which is also their habitat.

The lake is also the major water source in nearby communities as it gives the locals vital irrigation that can be used for agriculture. They are mainly used at those locations with less water access or when the rainfall is low. Some lakes also offer you a sacred area, fostering tourism. Thus, the lakes are essential for maintaining natural beauty balance, ecological balance, and cultural heritage.

How Many Lakes Are There In Nepal?

In Nepal, there are over 5,000 lakes. Each one presents you with varying depths, sizes, and unique charms. Besides, all the lakes have their ecological charm. These lakes, from lower Terai plains to high-altitude regions, can be found nationwide. The majority of stunning lakes can be found in secluded, picturesque locations. This remote trekking option is preferred by those searching for lakes of unspoiled natural beauty.

These lakes also help the local economy, irrigation, and ecosystem. However, the exact number of lakes in Nepal is difficult to find. It is due to the ongoing discovery of new lakes. Some are large and well-known lakes, such as Rara Lake and Phewa Lake, while others are smaller and easily accessible. Nepal’s abundant natural legacy is reflected in the lakes. They also provide many opportunities for tourism, adventure, and environmental research.

Lakes Distribution And Their Types

Lake Distribution

Himalayan Region: This area includes high-altitude lakes such as Rara, Tilicho, and Gokyo Lakes. These lakes are typically fed by glaciers and are located at elevations over 3,000 meters (9,800 feet). They are often located in remote areas and require trekking to reach.

Mid-Hills Region: Lakes like Phewa Lake and Begnas Lake are situated in the mid-hills of Nepal. These lakes are more accessible, with lush greenery and picturesque views. These mid-level lakes are popular for boating and other recreational activities.

Terai Region: Although less common, some lakes can also be found in the Terai region. These lakes are usually smaller. Situated in flatlands, they often play a role in local agriculture and support diverse wildlife.

Lake Types

Glacial Lakes: These lakes are formed by melting glaciers. Examples include Rara Lake and Gokyo Lakes. Due to the involvement of glacial, they are typically found at high altitudes. These types of lakes are popularly known for their clear, cold waters.

Tectonic Lakes: Formed by tectonic activity, these lakes are created by shifts in the Earth’s crust. Tilicho Lake is an example. Geological processes have led to the formation of deep, high-altitude lakes for this lake formation.

Ox-Bow Lakes: These are formed by the meandering of rivers that create crescent-shaped lakes. While less common in Nepal, they can be found in some river valleys and are often associated with fertile floodplains.

Man-Made Lakes: Created by human activities, such as dam construction, these lakes serve various purposes, including irrigation, hydroelectric power, and recreation. Examples include the lakes formed by large dams. They are often used for water storage and flood control.

Best Time To Visit Lakes In Nepal

The best times to visit lakes in Nepal are spring ( March to May) and autumn (September to November). This time of the year offers incredible climate and clear views, making your trekking journey relatively easy and full of natural beauty.

Spring Season

Spring is considered the ideal season for exploring any lakes in Nepal. With moderate temperatures and stable weather, visiting lakes during this season can be your best experience. Also, this season welcomes blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers. This adds vibrant color to landscapes and gives you a unique beauty of surrounding landscapes. The clear sky in this season offers you stunning views of the mountains while reflecting them on the lake’s surface.

Autumn Season

Autumn is another ideal season for a lake visit in Nepal. This season is also perfect for exploring the area’s natural beauty, like spring. Also, the two major festivals of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, fall under this season. Exploring the natural beauty and immersing yourself in local people’s culture and tradition can be quite an experience. But be sure, as it is the perfect season to explore, the overall places can be quite crowded, and the package can be expensive.

Besides these two seasons, we do not recommend trekking during Monsoon (June to August) and Winter (December to February). But it also depends on your personal preferences. However, there are some difficulties involved. During monsoon season, the trails are slippery, and the lake’s water is unclear. Similarly, in winter, all the way to high altitudes, the lake is covered with snow, making your trek to see the lake water not worthwhile.

Activities Around Nepal Lakes

Boating: Many lakes in Nepal, such as Phewa and Begnas Lake, offer a boating experience. Here, you will get the calm water, perfect for boating while witnessing beautiful scenic views.

Trekking: Lakes such as Gokyo Lakes, Tilicho Lake, and Rara Lake are popular trekking destinations, providing stunning mountain vistas and remote trails.

Bird Watching: Lakes like Gosaikunda and Rara are surrounded by forests, providing a habitat for various bird species, which is ideal for bird enthusiasts.

Camping: You can also opt for camping on the banks of these lakes. Some remote areas, such as Phoksundo Lake, are perfect for this activity. Camping allows you to immerse in nature while enjoying serene nights under the stars.

Fishing: Some lakes, like Phewa Lake and Begnas Lake, offer fishing opportunities where you can relax and catch local fish species.

Swimming: While not all lakes are suitable, you can swim in lakes like Phewa Lake, where the waters are calm and the environment is safe.

Economic Impact of Lakes on Local Communities

The lakes in Nepal contribute a lot to the local economy. Many tourists coming to see the beauty of the lakes need food to eat and a place to stay. For this, many local people have started hotels, eateries, and retail shops in surrounding areas. This helps them to make money from tourists, offering job opportunities. Similarly, fishing is another significant activity one can do in lakes. Most local communities near those lakes rely on fishing for daily food and income.

People can make a living and put bread on the table for their families by selling fish from the lake’s catches in the surrounding markets. The lakes also support farming. Crop growth is encouraged in the surrounding fields by the irrigation provided by the water from the lake. Good harvests from healthy crops translate into more food and cash for the families. This enhances the general well-being of the surrounding communities.

Threats to Lakes in Nepal

The lakes in Nepal are facing serious threats because of mankind. The primary threat to Nepal’s lakes is pollution caused by human activities. As tourism grows, more waste, including plastic, is in the lakes. Such pollutants reduce the quality of water and affect the aquatic life. For agricultural practices in nearby locations, people use different chemical fertilizers, which adds to the problem, causing toxic algae to proliferate and throw off the natural equilibrium.

Another huge threat to the lakes of Nepal is climate change. Accordingly, with rising temperatures, glacier melting quickly alters the lakes’ water level. It can result in very hazardous floods that destroy any area downstream. Unpredictable weather, like changing monsoon patterns, also affects the water supply. Such problems are worsened by deforestation and uncontrolled development in areas around the lakes. The sediment levels increase, and these practices destroy natural habitats. These issues, therefore, call for better management practices if the lakes in Nepal are to be safeguarded.

Efforts to Preserve Lakes

Community-Based Conservation

• Participatory Management: The people should be involved in lake management decisions through community-based organizations or user groups.
• Awareness Campaigns: These campaigns can be conducted to educate people about the importance of lakes, their ecological value, and the threats they face.
• Waste Management: People residing there can implement effective waste management systems to prevent pollution from entering the lake.
• Sustainable Practices: They can promote sustainable fishing and agricultural practices that minimize negative impacts on the lake ecosystem.

Government Regulations and Policies

• Environmental Impact Assessments: The government can conduct environmental impact assessments for any development projects near lakes to identify and mitigate potential risks.
• Pollution Control Laws: They can enact and enforce strict pollution control laws to limit industrial and agricultural discharges into lakes.
• Protected Area Designation: The local bodies can also establish protected areas around lakes to safeguard their ecosystems and prevent degradation.
• Monitoring and Enforcement: They should implement effective monitoring programs to track lake health and enforce environmental regulations.

Sustainable Tourism Initiatives

• Responsible Tourism: Tourists should follow responsible practices that minimize environmental impacts, such as reducing waste, conserving water, and respecting local customs.
• Support Local Businesses: Visitors can patronize businesses prioritizing sustainability and environmental protection.
• Avoid Harmful Activities: They should refrain from activities that can harm the lake ecosystem, such as littering, feeding wildlife, or disturbing aquatic habitats.
• Educate Others: Tourists can also spread awareness about the importance of lake conservation and encourage others to adopt responsible tourism practices.

Travel Tips

• You need to learn about the lake’s location, the weather during your trek, and the altitude you climb during the journey.
• Remember to bring all the essentials, such as warm clothing, trekking shoes, and a first aid kit, to make a successful trip.
• You should drink plenty of water, especially if your lake visit includes trekking. This helps you to keep dehydrated in high altitudes.
• Give your body time to adjust to the altitude if visiting a high-altitude lake.
• Showing your respect towards the local culture and being mindful of their traditions makes you a responsible traveler.
• As per our recommendation, you should also bring enough food and water, especially in remote areas.
• Hiring a guide is not compulsory but is highly recommended, as they help for a safe and successful journey while providing navigation.
• Always check the weather forecast to avoid bad weather during your visit.

Conclusion

Overall, the best lakes in Nepal are the perfect place to visit if you want both natural and cultural significance. No matter which destination you choose to visit, each of them offers you the best memorable experience. You can either visit this lake alone or even in a group. Most of the lakes have proper accommodations, facilities, and meal options. Choose the one that fits your preferences and fitness level. If you are not into trekking, you can also opt for lower region lakes or some of the beautiful lakes in the nearby Kathmandu area.

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