Nepal has a lot to offer! Nepal is a treasure trove of different landscapes and cultures. You can experience towering mountains, flat plains, and everything in between. The country is steeped in tradition and spirituality, with many adventurous things to do and ancient cities to explore.
Let’s take a closer look at the stunning lakes of Nepal. With countless lakes scattered across the country, Nepal offers a wide variety to explore. From peaceful, clear lakes to more mysterious ones, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
From the iconic Phewa Lake, where boating and kayaking are possible, to the mystical Shey Phoksundo Lake, which has a spiritual significance, every lake in Nepal has stories to tell and experiences to offer. Join us as we unveil the wonders of the “Mesmerizing Lakes of Nepal”. Take notes and add these hidden glories of Nepal to your destination list for your next vacation to kick off.
Most Stunning Lakes Of Nepal
1. Fewa Lake
Depth: Average 8.6m (28 ft) & Maximum 24 m (79 ft)
Altitude: 742m (2,434 ft)
Area: 5.7 km2 (2.2 sq mi)
Location: Lakeside, Pokhara
Lake Type: Freshwater
Fewa Lake is the second-largest lake in Nepal, with a total area of 5.7 km. One of Pokhara’s attractions is the stunning Tal Barahi Temple, which is situated in the middle of the lake. You can also take out exciting water sports on this lake like kayaking and boating. As the shadows of Machapuchare and Mount Annapurna fall into the lake, you are left with a dreamlike recollection.
Due to the abundance of lively cafés, bars, clubs, restaurants, and retail establishments in the neighborhood, Lakeside is well-known for its natural beauty as well as its recreational centers. If you’re planning your visit to Pokhara, don’t miss out on exploring the vibrant Lakeside area.
Check out our guides on things to do in Pokhara to make the most of your trip a memorable one.
2. Begnas Lake
Depth: Average 6.6 m (22 ft) & Maximum 10m (33 ft)
Altitude: 650m (2,133 ft)
Area: 3.28 km² (1.3 sq mi)
Location: Lekhnath, Pokhara
Lake Type: Natural Freshwater
Begnas Lake the third largest lake of Nepal is situated among lush hills near Pokhara Valley. If you are in Pokhara and want to explore the lakes of Nepal the place is a heaven for boating, birdwatching, and relaxation. The new famous tourist destination Majhikuna is just a 15-minute ride away, and the view of divine Begnas Lake is crystal clear. Majhikuna has many cafes and restaurants where you can chill and try local cuisine along the famous Majhikuna grilled fish with the pleasant sight of Begnas Lake.
PS: Begnas Lake is just a 30-minute ride/drive from Pokhara Valley.
3. Rara Lake
Depth: 167 m (548 ft)
Altitude: 2,990m (9,810 ft)
Area: 10.8 km²
Location: Mugu, Rara National Park
Lake Type: Fresh Water
Mahendra Lake, alternatively referred to as Rara Lake, is the largest freshwater and the deepest lake among the lakes of Nepal. Rara Lake, nestled within the picturesque Rara National Park, is a paradise for those who love nature and adventure. This stunning high-altitude lake is surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains, making it an ideal destination for trekking enthusiasts.
Beyond its natural beauty, a visit to Rara Lake provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the remote villages in Mugu and Jumla Districts.
4. Tilicho Lake
Depth: 85m
Altitude: 4,919 m (16,138 ft)
Area: 4.8 km² (1.9 sq mi)
Location: Manang
Lake Type: Glacial Lake
Tilicho Lake, known as the world’s highest-altitude lake, is a hidden gem awaiting discovery by explorers and nature enthusiasts. The lake stands as a shining jewel among the remarkable lakes of Nepal. Trekking through challenging terrain, alpine forests, and glacial streams will lead you to this breathtaking destination. The sight of the deep blue lake encircled by towering mountains is enough to captivate anyone’s senses, offering a moment of pure escape from the world.
Whether you’re an avid trekker or simply someone who appreciates stunning natural beauty, Tilicho Lake trek deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
5. Panch Pokhari
Depth: 20m
Altitude: 4100m
Location: Sindhupalchowk
Lake Type: Fresh Water
Panch Pokhari is a collection of five holy lakes in Nepal’s Sindhupalchowk district. Panch Pokhari is situated at an elevation of 4100 meters above sea level and can be reached in 3 to 4 days from Nepal’s main city, Kathmandu. The lake is renowned among Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. Panch Pokhari is nature’s best-kept secret since it remains comparatively untouched. Panch Pokhari is a key feature of Langtang National Park.
Upon reaching, you can immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Panch Pokhari which promises an unforgettable adventure in the lap of Nepal’s Himalayas.
6. Shey Phoksundo Lake
Depth: 136.20m (446.9 ft)
Altitude: 3,611.5 m (11,849 ft)
Area: 4.85km²
Location: Dolpa, Shey Phoksundo National Park
Lake Type: Alipne Fresh Water
Situated in the isolated wilderness of Dolpa, Nepal, Shey Phoksundo Lake emerges as an astonishing Himalayan marvel among the lakes of Nepal. This pristine lake is reached exclusively via the 11-day trek along the challenging Himalayan routes in Nepal. It is graced with captivating sapphire-blue waters that are encircled by majestic peaks.
Exploring Shey Phoksundo Lake holds great potential for an extraordinary expedition, particularly for individuals who are enthusiastic about uncovering unspoiled natural glory in isolated areas.
7. Gokyo Lake
Depth: 43m(141feet)
Altitude: 4750meters (15,580 feet)
Area:196.2 hectares (485 acres)
Location: Dolpa, Shey Phoksundo National Park
Lake Type: Glacial Lakes
Gokyo Lakes is a collection of beautiful glacial lakes in the heart of Nepal’s Himalayas offering a spectacular natural setting inside Gokyo Valley. These magnificent sources of water, situated in the rough landscape of Sagarmatha National Park, provide a tranquil and fascinating relief for explorers and nature lovers. Surrounded by high snow-capped peaks, the azure-blue waters of Gokyo Lakes mirror the magnificent beauty of the Himalayan range, producing a breathtaking scene.
Gokyo Lake Trek promises an incredible adventure into the heart of the Himalayas, whether you’re drawn to the challenge of high-altitude trekking or just want to find peace in the tranquility of nature.
8. Gosaikunda Lake
Depth: 26.5m
Altitude:4380m (14,370ft)
Area:13.8 ha(34 acres)
Location:Rasuwa District
Lake Type: Alpine,Oligotrophic
Gosaikunda Lake, situated in Nepal’s Langtang National Park, is a spiritual treasure in the Himalayas, at an elevation of 4,380 meters. It holds significant religious importance for Hindus since it is thought to be Lord Shiva’s holy home. This tranquil lake of Nepal, surrounded by spectacular snow-capped hills, draws visitors seeking both physical challenge and spiritual peace.
Despite challenges such as high altitude and rocky terrain Gosaikunda’s charm persists, attracting explorers and pilgrims seeking to experience its calm majesty and spiritual resonance.
9. Birendra Lake
Altitude:3,691 meters (12,110 ft)
Area:3 km²
Location: Gorkha District
Lake Type: Freshwater Lake
Birendra Lake, named after King Birendra of Nepal, is a calm place surrounded by tall mountains. Though not as famous as other lakes of Nepal, it’s still attractive and holds a unique charm. The freshwater Birendra Lake formed by the Manaslu glacier is the main attraction of the Manaslu Circuit Trek It’s a one-hour climb from the gorgeous Samagaon. Samagaon, situated at a height of 3,690 meters above sea level, is the first acclimatization stop along the Manaslu Circuit hiking route.
People like going there because it’s peaceful and has great views. Getting there by trekking is fun, and when you reach it, you see clear water showing the mountains. Even though not many know about it, those who visit find it charming and quiet.
10. Bish Hazari Lake
Altitude:286 m (938ft)
Area:3200 ha (7,900 acres)
Location: Chitwan,Nepal
Lake Type: Oxbow Lake
Bishazari Tal, also known as Twenty Thousand Lakes, is a picturesque destination in Chitwan Nepal. Situated in the southernmost region of Bharatpur inside Chitwan National Park the lakes are only 5 miles away from Bharatpur’s main city. The lake and its surroundings are bursting with vibrant birds, butterflies, and occasional sightings of deer and rhinoceros. Also, the wetland serves as a waterhole and a wildlife corridor for a variety of animals, including mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Nature enthusiasts and those interested in animal encounters can visit Bish Hajari Taal. The peaceful waterways and the surrounding natural beauty can be explored, with guided boat trips. Hence it is a great spot for those wanting to explore the many lakes of Nepal.
Conclusion
From the majestic reflections of the Himalayas to the lush green valleys and pristine lakes, Nepal is truly blessed with an abundance of stunning natural beauty. The 10 beautiful lakes of Nepal featured in this blog post represent just a tiny sample of the incredible diversity found across the remarkable country. But these lakes are all living examples of Nepal’s natural surroundings unadulterated with wild beauty. They arouse in everyone who sees them astonishment and wonder and serve as a reminder of the need to protect these priceless ecosystems for future generations.
So, if you’re in Nepal, don’t miss visiting these beautiful lakes. Look at their calm waters, walk around their scenic shores, and feel their peaceful energy. These lakes show the true beauty of Nepal’s nature.
