Nepal is known for its majestic Himalayan mountain range, but it is also home to several serene lakes that offer a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These lakes boast stunning natural scenery and a peaceful ambiance that can help you unwind and relax your mind. Whether you’re an adventurous trekker or someone who just wants to sit back and enjoy the view, Nepal’s lakes are the perfect place to visit. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at seven of the most serene lakes in Nepal that are sure to rejuvenate your mind and soul.
Introduction to Lakes in Nepal
Nepal is not only known for its beautiful Himalayan mountains and cultural heritage but also for its serene lakes that offer an escape from the chaos of everyday life. These lakes are not just for aesthetic pleasure but also have significant cultural and spiritual importance. Nepali lakes are perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat, surrounded by natural beauty, and looking to reconnect with nature.
Why Nepal’s Lakes are the Perfect Place to Unwind
Nepal’s lakes are surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and picturesque countryside. The quiet atmosphere around these serene bodies of water is ideal for relaxing, rejuvenating the mind and body, or engaging in meditation and yoga. Moreover, these lakes serve as a cultural hub for the Nepali people, and visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Here are seven serene lakes in Nepal that you can visit to get away from the hustle-bustle of your daily life.
Phewa Lake: A Picturesque Gateway to Pokhara
Overview of Phewa Lake
Located in the city of Pokhara, Phewa Lake is one of the most popular and picturesque tourist destinations in Nepal. The lake offers stunning views of the Annapurna Himalayan Range and the serene waterbody itself, making it a preferred spot for scenic views and photography. The lake covers an area of about 5.23 square kilometers, and the water is crystal clear, and deep, and offers prime fishing opportunities.
The Best Time to Visit Phewa Lake
The best time to visit Phewa Lake is from September to November or from February to April. The weather is mild, the skies are clear, and the landscape is vibrant with lush greenery or blooming flowers.
Things to Do Near Phewa Lake
Visitors can indulge in various activities such as boating, kayaking, fishing, paragliding, and hiking. The surrounding forested hills provide excellent trekking opportunities, while the Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in the middle of the lake is a stunning attraction for spiritual as well as aesthetic reasons.
Gosaikunda Lake: A Spiritual Trek to Tranquility
Overview of Gosaikunda Lake
Gosaikunda Lake, situated in the Langtang National Park, is a picturesque high-altitude freshwater lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake holds great significance among the Hindu devotees who consider it a sacred site. The trek to Gosaikunda Lake is an adventure in itself, leading through lush vegetation, rugged terrains, and serene waterways.
The Best Time to Visit Gosaikunda Lake
The best time to visit Gosaikunda Lake is from May to October. The trail is dry, and the weather is mild during this time, making it ideal for trekking.
The Spiritual Significance of Gosaikunda Lake
Gosaikunda Lake is believed to have formed when Lord Shiva pierced a glacier with his trident to quench his thirst. Hindu devotees take a holy dip in the lake during the Janai Purnima festival and believe it will absolve them of their sins.
Tilicho Lake: A Remote and Pristine Getaway
Overview of Tilicho Lake
Located at an altitude of 4,919 meters in the Annapurna range of the Himalayas, Tilicho Lake is among the world’s highest lakes. The lake boasts of its crystal-clear water, surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks on all sides. The pristine beauty of this remote lake is still relatively unknown, making it a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
The Best Time to Visit Tilicho Lake
The best time to visit Tilicho Lake is from October to November or from March to May. The weather is mild and offers clear skies with a vibrant landscape of blooming flowers.
Trekking to Tilicho Lake
The trek to Tilicho Lake is challenging, but the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the lake make it worth the effort. The trek takes you through diverse landscapes ranging from subtropical forests to arid and barren terrain. Visitors can also enjoy the local culture and hospitality of the Himalayan people during the trek.
In conclusion, Nepal’s serene lakes offer an escape from the hustle-bustle of everyday life, where visitors can reconnect with nature, indulge in adventure or spiritual activities, and immerse themselves in local culture. A trip to these serene lakes in Nepal is a perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate the mind and body.
Rara Lake: A Jewel of the Himalayas
Overview of Rara Lake
Rara Lake is located in the far-western region of Nepal, surrounded by the Rara National Park. This breathtakingly beautiful lake is the largest freshwater lake in Nepal, with a surface area of 10.8 km² and a depth of 167m. The crystal clear blue water of the lake is surrounded by lush green hills, making it an idyllic location for trekking, camping, and rejuvenation.
The Best Time to Visit Rara Lake
The best time to visit Rara Lake is from September to November and March to April. During these months, the weather is clear, dry, and mild, making it perfect for trekking and camping. The skies are clear, and the breathtaking view of the surrounding hills is visible throughout the day.
Wildlife and Nature at Rara Lake
The Rara National Park, which surrounds the lake, is home to over 500 species of flora and fauna, including the endangered red panda and musk deer. You can take a leisurely walk around the lake to enjoy the nature trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a trek deeper into the park to explore its natural beauty.
Shey-Phoksundo Lake: A Hidden Paradise in Dolpo
Overview of Shey-Phoksundo Lake
Shey-Phoksundo Lake is located in the Dolpo region of Nepal, near the Tibetan border. It is one of the most remote and exotic lakes in the world, surrounded by majestic mountains, glaciers, and pristine forests. The lake’s pristine waters glow in subtropical light, and the reflection of the mountains makes it an incredibly picturesque location.
The Best Time to Visit Shey-Phoksundo Lake
The best time to visit Shey-Phoksundo Lake is from August to September. During these months, the weather is clear, dry, and mild, making it perfect for trekking and camping. The skies are clear, and the breathtaking view of the surrounding hills is visible throughout the day.
Trekking to Shey-Phoksundo Lake
To reach the lake, you will need to embark on a 10-12 day trek from Juphal, passing through beautiful forests and villages. Trekking to Shey-Phoksundo Lake is not for the faint-hearted, but it is worth the effort. The beauty and serenity of the lake will take your breath away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit these lakes?
The best time to visit these serene lakes is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is mild, and the skies are clear, making it the perfect time for trekking and sightseeing.
How do I get to these lakes?
Most of these lakes are located in remote areas, and the only way to reach them is by trekking. Some of the lakes like Phewa Lake and Rara Lake can be accessed by vehicle or motorcycle.
Is it safe to swim in these lakes?
Swimming is allowed in some of these lakes, but it’s important to note that the water can be cold and deep in some areas. It’s always a good idea to exercise caution and only swim in designated areas.
What else can I do near these lakes?
In addition to enjoying the scenic beauty of these lakes, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. You can go boating, fishing, hiking, or simply relax and read a book while taking in the breathtaking views. There are also several temples and monasteries near some of these lakes that you can visit for a spiritual experience.