25 Beautiful Lakes in Nepal That Everyone Should Visit

Nepal is a land of extraordinary natural beauty, from the towering peaks of the Himalayas for trekking in Nepal to the lush valleys below. But tucked between those mountains lies one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets, its spectacular collection of lakes. With over 5,300 lakes across the country, including 2,300 glacial lakes, Nepal offers some of the most breathtaking lake scenery on the planet.

From sacred high-altitude pilgrimage sites to shimmering lowland wetlands, the lakes in Nepal cater to every kind of traveller. Whether you are a seasoned trekker, a nature enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone chasing beauty, Nepal’s lakes will leave you speechless. Here are 25 of the most beautiful lakes in Nepal that absolutely deserve a place on your bucket list.

Table of Contents

S.N	Lakes in Nepal	Location	Altitude
1	Gosainkunda Lake	Rasuwa, Langtang National Park	4,380m
2	Tilicho Lake	Manang District	4,919m
3	Rara Lake	Mugu District, Karnali Province	2,990m
4	Shey Phoksundo Lake	Dolpa District	3,611.5m
5	Panch Pokhari	Sindhupalchowk	4,100m
6	Tsho Rolpa Lake	Rolwaling Valley, Dolakha	4,580m
7	Kapuche Lake	Kaski District	2,546m
8	Gokyo Lakes	Solukhumbu District	4,700–5,000m
9	Phewa, Rupa & Begnas Lakes	Pokhara Valley	600–742m
10	Ghodaghodi Tal	Kailali, Western Nepal	205m
11	Birendra Lake	Samagaun, Gorkha District	3,691m
12	Imja Tsho Lake	Hinku Village, Everest Region	5,010m
13	Ice Lake (Kicho Tal)	Manang Valley	4,620m
14	Mai Pokhari	Ilam District, Eastern Nepal	2,100m
15	Gangapurna Lake	Manang District	3,540m
16	Bish Hazari Lake	Chitwan District	286m
17	Kajin Sara Lake	Chame, Manang	5,002m
18	Kalmachum Lake (Kal Tal)	Manaslu Region	3,800m
19	Dudh Pokhari (Milky Lake)	Lamjung District	4,560m
20	Ramaroshan Lake	Achham District	2,400m
21	Kyanjin Sara Lake	Langtang Valley, Rasuwa	5,200m
22	Blue Lake (Meru Tal)	Manang Region	~4,200m
23	Parpathi Kunda	Gatlang, Rasuwa (Ruby Valley)	~3,800m
24	Titi Lake	Mustang District	~3,800m
25	Suryakunda Lake	Dolakha District	~4,100m

1. Gosainkunda Lake

Location	Rasuwa, Langtang National Park
Area	4.0 sq km
Depth	25.5m
Altitude	4,380m

Gosainkunda is one of the most sacred lakes in Nepal, and without question one of the most visited. Declared a Ramsar site in 2007, this holy lake sits within Langtang National Park alongside 108 other smaller lakes in its vicinity. Its spiritual importance is immense:

• Hindus believe it is the dwelling place of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati
• Thousands of pilgrims travel here every year during Janai Purnima to cleanse their souls
• The legend holds that Shiva created this lake by striking the ground with his trident to soothe his burning throat

Getting here requires a bus to Syabrubesi from Kathmandu, then a multi-day trek through forests and high meadows. Along the route, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu.

2. Tilicho Lake

Location	Manang District, Annapurna Region
Area	4.8 sq km
Depth	85m (average)
Altitude	4,919m

Tilicho Lake is widely regarded as one of the highest lakes in the world, sitting at a jaw-dropping altitude of 4,919 metres. This glacial lake in the Manang District is a celebrated side trip along the Annapurna Circuit Trek, and for good reason. Its crystalline waters sit in stark contrast against the surrounding rock faces and snowfields. Notably, the lake has no aquatic organisms due to its extreme altitude. The trek to Tilicho branches off from Manang via Siri Kharka, rewarding trekkers with some of the finest Himalayan scenery imaginable.

3. Rara Lake

Location	Mugu District, Karnali Province
Area	10.8 sq km
Depth	100m (average)
Altitude	2,990m

Rara Lake is the crown jewel of Nepal’s lakes, the largest freshwater lake in the country, and widely considered its most beautiful. Located inside Rara National Park, the lake is a Ramsar site that changes colour up to five times a day, shifting between:

• Deep blue during midday
• Brown and crimson at dusk
• Purple in the early morning light

To reach Rara, fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then to Jumla, followed by a 2–3 hour walk into the national park. Its remote location means fewer crowds and a truly unspoiled natural experience.

4. Shey Phoksundo Lake

Location	Dolpa District, Shey Phoksundo National Park
Area	4.85 sq km
Depth	136.20m (maximum)
Altitude	3,611.5m

With its extraordinary turquoise-blue waters, Shey Phoksundo is often called the most beautiful lake in Nepal. This oligotrophic, Y-shaped lake is sacred to Buddhists and Bon practitioners alike. Its shores are home to 20 ancient stupas and a 900-year-old monastery on its eastern bank. The surrounding landscape, dramatic cliffs, pine forests, and the Kanjiroba Himal make it one of the most photogenic spots in all of Nepal. Reach it by flying to Juphal from Nepalgunj and then trekking for several days.

5. Panch Pokhari

Location	Bhotang, Sindhupalchowk
Altitude	4,100m

Panch Pokhari, meaning ‘five lakes’, is a cluster of five sacred Hindu lakes in Sindhupalchowk District. Relatively close to Kathmandu, this destination is one of the lesser-visited gems of Nepal’s lake landscape. Pilgrims flock here during Janai Purnima for ritual bathing. You can reach the trailhead by bus to Chautara and then hike via Kami Kharka and Hile Bhanjyang. Despite its proximity to the capital, the peaceful atmosphere here feels worlds away from city life.

6. Tsho Rolpa Lake

Location	Rolwaling Valley, Dolakha District
Area	1.537 sq km
Depth	55m (average)
Altitude	4,580m

Tsho Rolpa, meaning ‘lake of the Rolwaling Valley’ in Sherpa, is one of Nepal’s largest and most dynamic glacial lakes. The lake is gradually expanding due to glacial melt driven by climate change, making it as much a symbol of environmental concern as it is a place of natural splendour. It is only 115 km from Kathmandu, reachable by bus to Dolakha and a multi-day trek passing Singati, Simigaun, and Beding. Views of Gaurishankar Himal accompany you the entire way.

7. Kapuche Lake

Location	Kaski District
Area	0.12 sq km
Depth	40m
Altitude	2,546m

Kapuche holds the unique distinction of being the world’s lowest glacial lake, fed by meltwater from Annapurna II, IV, and Lamjung Himal. In winter, its surface freezes solid, creating a natural ice rink amid the mountains. The trail to Kapuche begins in Pokhara, with a drive to Sikles followed by a scenic trek through forests with sweeping Annapurna views. Because the route is relatively new, it remains uncrowded and wonderfully raw.

8. Gokyo Lakes

Location	Khumjung Village, Solukhumbu District
Area	1.96 sq km (deepest lake)
Depth	62.4m
Altitude	4,700–5,000m

The Gokyo Lakes are a breathtaking collection of 19 high-altitude glacial lakes in the Everest region, declared Ramsar sites in 2007. The largest among them is Thonak Cho. Both Hindus and Buddhists hold these lakes sacred. What makes the Gokyo experience truly unforgettable is the surrounding panorama:

• Mount Everest and Lhotse to the southeast
• Cho Oyu to the northwest
• Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s largest, stretches across the valley

Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu, then trek via Namche Bazaar to reach the Gokyo Valley. Many trekkers combine this with the Everest Base Camp route.

9. Phewa, Rupa & Begnas Lakes (Pokhara)

Location	Pokhara Valley
Altitude	Phewa: 742m | Rupa: 600m | Begnas: 650m

No guide to the lakes in Nepal would be complete without Pokhara’s famous trio. The city, reachable by a 5-hour drive or 20-minute flight from Kathmandu, is built around these shimmering bodies of water backed by the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

• Phewa Lake: The second largest in Nepal, famous for its World Peace Pagoda and reflections of Machhapuchhre
• Begnas Lake: The third largest in Nepal, popular for fishing and paddy farming on its wetland edges
• Rupa Lake: A birdwatcher’s paradise, rich in water birds and caged fisheries

10. Ghodaghodi Tal

Location	Kailali, Western Nepal
Area	25.63 sq km (13 oxbow lakes)
Depth	4m (average)
Altitude	205m

Ghodaghodi Tal is a Ramsar-listed wetland system of 13 oxbow lakes nestled on the lower slopes of the Siwalik Hills in western Nepal. According to legend, Lord Shiva and Parvati, transformed into horses by a hermit’s curse, circled these lakes for eternity. Today, the area is a wildlife haven, supporting Bengal Tiger, Marsh Crocodile, Swamp Deer, and several endangered turtle species. Fly to Dhangadi from Kathmandu and drive 77 km to reach this western treasure.

11. Birendra Lake

Location	Samagaun, Gorkha District
Altitude	3,691m

Named after Nepal’s late King Birendra Shah, Birendra Lake is a tranquil freshwater lake resting at the foot of the Manaslu Glacier in Samagaun village. Most trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit make a stop here, and it is easy to see why, the blue waters mirrored against the white face of Manaslu (8,163m) create a scene of rare beauty. The trek from Soti Khola takes around a week, with the lake serving as one of the most rewarding stops along the way.

12. Imja Tsho Lake

Location	Hinku Village, Everest Region
Area	1.055 sq km
Depth	90m
Altitude	5,010m

Imja Tsho formed in the 1950s as meltwater accumulated at the base of the Imja Glacier, making it one of Nepal’s youngest and fastest-growing glacial lakes. Located in the Solu Khumbu region, it is a fascinating stop for trekkers heading into the higher reaches of the Everest region. The route begins with a flight to Lukla, then a trek through stunning Sherpa villages toward the glacier. The tight-knit community of Rai and Limbu people in nearby Hinku village offers authentic homestay experiences.

13. Ice Lake (Kicho Tal)

Location	Manang Valley
Altitude	4,620m

Locally called Kicho Tal, Ice Lake is a favourite acclimatization hike on the Annapurna Circuit, branching off from Manang village. Fed by the Chulu River, the lake offers some of the best panoramic views on the entire circuit. Trekkers typically ascend here on a rest day before pushing higher on the circuit. The autumn and spring seasons offer the clearest skies and most vibrant colours around the lake.

14. Mai Pokhari

Location	Ilam District, Eastern Nepal
Area	220 acres
Altitude	2,100m

Known as the ‘lake of flowers,’ Mai Pokhari is a thriving wetland in the tea-growing district of Ilam, surrounded by dense forests and the Bhagwati Temple. This sacred lake is a hub of unique flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and bird watchers. Fly to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu (40 minutes), then travel 90 minutes by vehicle to Ilam. Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons to witness the lake at its most vibrant.

15. Gangapurna Lake

Location	Manang District
Area	21.08 hectares
Altitude	3,540m

Gangapurna Lake sits below the spectacular Gangapurna peak in the Manang District, accessible via the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The lake’s icy blue waters are fed by the Gangapurna Glacier, and the views from its banks, with towering peaks on every side, are among the finest in the Annapurna region. Beginning from Besi Sahar, the journey winds through charming villages, lush forests, and high-altitude mountain desert to reach this unforgettable spot.

16. Bish Hazari Lake

Location	Chitwan District
Area	7,900 acres
Altitude	286m

Bish Hazari, translating to ‘twenty thousand’, is a birding paradise within the Chitwan National Park buffer zone. Its name is said to reflect the lake’s appearance from above. The lake and its surrounding dense forests provide critical habitat for diverse wildlife, and winter is the prime time to visit when migratory birds arrive from northern regions. Reach it by flying to Bharatpur from Kathmandu and then travelling by road to Sauraha. Entry requires a Chitwan National Park fee.

17. Kajin Sara Lake

Location	Singarkharka, Chame Rural Municipality, Manang
Altitude	5,002m (approx. 5,020m at highest point)

Kajin Sara Lake is rapidly gaining fame as a contender for the title of the world’s highest lake, potentially surpassing even Tilicho. Discovered relatively recently and located 24 km from Chame, it remains one of the most pristine and untouched lakes in Nepal. The trek takes 3–4 days from Chame:

• Day 1–2: Drive to Chame, trek to Lamjung Himal Base Camp (6 hours)
• Day 3: Continue to High Camp
• Day 4: Two-hour hike to Kajin Sara Lake at 5,020m

The optimal visiting window is April to November. Along the route, trekkers may spot mountain goats and the rare Himalayan Monal bird.

18. Kalmachum Lake (Kal Tal)

Location	Manaslu Region
Area	21.08 hectares
Altitude	3,800m

Kalmachum Lake, also known as Kal Tal, is the largest lake in the Manaslu region and a beloved side excursion for trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Accessible within a few hours from Prok village, the lake is surrounded by cirque-headed valleys and towering peaks. The week-long trek from Soti Khola passes through glacial valleys, deep gorges, and traditional villages, making it a moderately difficult but deeply rewarding adventure for those in good physical shape.

19. Dudh Pokhari (Milky Lake)

Location	Lamjung District
Altitude	4,560m

Dudh Pokhari, the ‘Milky Lake’, earns its poetic name from its crystal-clear waters that shimmer like milk in the morning light. Nestled in the Lamjung District at 4,560 metres, it is a peaceful detour on the Annapurna Circuit route. The trek passes through charming villages and lush forests before opening up to the alpine landscape around the lake. Visit between March and November for the best weather and clearest skies.

20. Ramaroshan Lake

Location	Achham District
Altitude	2,400m

The Ramaroshan area is famously known as the ‘land of 12 lakes and 18 meadows.’ Among its lakes, Jigale is the largest and Taune the smallest. This western Nepal destination remains off the tourist radar, making it ideal for those seeking solitude in nature. Fly or take a bus to Dhangadi, drive to Sanfebagar, and then begin a trek or jeep ride toward the lakes. Autumn and spring bring the most scenic conditions.

21. Kyanjin Sara Lake

Location	Langtang Valley, Rasuwa District
Altitude	5,200m

Kyanjin Sara Lake is one of Nepal’s most recently discovered high-altitude wonders, found by a group of mountaineers in 2019. Perched at an astonishing 5,200 metres in the Langtang Valley, it offers some of the most dramatic scenery in all of Nepal. The lake is still relatively unknown, meaning those who make the effort to reach it are rewarded with an entirely undisturbed experience. Trek to Kyanjin Gompa in the Langtang Valley, then head higher toward the lake for a true off-the-beaten-path adventure.

22. Blue Lake (Meru Tal)

Location	Manang Region, Annapurna Circuit
Altitude	4,200m (approx.)

Blue Lake, locally known as Meru Tal, is a hidden gem along the Annapurna Circuit that many trekkers walk past without knowing it exists. Tucked among the towering peaks of the Annapurna and Manang ranges, its crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped mountains so perfectly that the surface looks like a mirror. The lake holds sacred significance for both Hindus and Buddhists, who consider it a manifestation of divine energy. It is a short detour from the main Annapurna Circuit trail, and since the area falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area, make sure your ACAP permit is in order before heading out., making it an easy and deeply rewarding addition to your itinerary.

23. Parpathi Kunda

Location	Gatlang Village, Rasuwa District, Ruby Valley
Altitude	Approx. 3,800m

Parpathi Kunda is a culturally rich lake located near Gatlang village in Rasuwa District, along the Ruby Valley Trek route. This lake is deeply woven into the fabric of local life and tradition:

• Locals from surrounding villages gather here for blessings, rituals, and seasonal celebrations
• The lake sits amid rhododendron forests that burst into colour during spring
• It combines natural beauty with a living cultural heritage rarely found at tourist hotspots

The Ruby Valley Trek is the best way to access Parpathi Kunda. The route passes through Tamang villages and offers outstanding views of Ganesh Himal. This is an ideal destination for travellers interested in both nature and authentic Nepalese culture.

24. Titi Lake

Location	Mustang District, Annapurna Conservation Area
Altitude	Approx. 3,800m

Titi Lake is a lesser-known but ecologically significant lake in the Annapurna Conservation Area, situated in the temperate zone of the Front Himalayas. The lake and its surrounding wetlands are particularly valuable for biodiversity conservation, serving as habitat for several protected bird species whose genetics are uniquely preserved in this region. Titi is reachable via the Mustang region, making it a rewarding detour for adventurous trekkers exploring the Upper Mustang trail. Its raw, undeveloped character makes it one of the most authentic lake experiences in Nepal.

25. Suryakunda Lake

Location	Dolakha District
Altitude	Approx. 4,100m

Suryakunda, meaning ‘Sun Lake’, is a sacred alpine lake in Dolakha District, often visited as part of a pilgrimage circuit in the region. The lake holds deep religious significance for Hindu devotees who believe its waters carry purifying properties. Surrounded by high ridges and seasonal wildflowers, it is most stunning in spring and early autumn. The trek to Suryakunda passes through dense forests and small hill villages, offering a quiet and meditative journey that perfectly complements the spiritual atmosphere of the lake itself.

Final Thoughts on Lakes in Nepal

The lakes in Nepal are far more than scenic backdrops, they are living landscapes layered with history, spirituality, ecology, and adventure. From the sacred shores of Gosainkunda to the remote turquoise depths of Shey Phoksundo, from the popular lakeside promenades of Pokhara to the undiscovered brilliance of Kyanjin Sara, each lake tells its own story.

Whether you are planning a once-in-a-lifetime trek or a leisurely weekend escape from Kathmandu, there is a lake in Nepal perfectly suited to your pace, fitness level, and sense of wonder. Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and let the lakes of Nepal show you just how magnificent this Himalayan nation truly is.

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