Nepal is globally famous for its peaks - the eight-thousanders and the legendary trekking trails. Yet, nestled within the towering Himalayas, hidden in serene valleys, and stretching across the lowlands are over 5,300 lakes and ponds (known locally as Pokhari or Tal). These liquid jewels are not just stunningly beautiful; they are woven into the spiritual, cultural, and ecological fabric of the nation.
To truly experience Nepal, one must touch the waters of these sacred, deep, and reflective bodies. They offer everything from multi-week, high-altitude expeditions to accessible, cultural day trips.
This is your definitive guide to the Must-Visit Lakes in Nepal, categorized by the experience they offer - be it an extreme trekking challenge, a sacred pilgrimage, or a tranquil cultural immersion.
I. The Himalayan Giants: Extreme Altitude & Untamed Wilderness (6 Lakes)
These are the lakes for the dedicated adventurer, requiring multi-day treks, high-altitude acclimatization, and a thirst for pristine wilderness. They hold the titles of the world's highest, Nepal's largest, and deepest.
1. Tilicho Lake
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Altitude: 4,919m
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Location: Manang District (Annapurna Region)
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The Hook: Often cited as one of the highest lakes in the world at its size. Fed by the glaciers of Tilicho, Annapurna, and Nilgiri peaks, its crystalline blue waters are a legendary detour on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The sheer scale and high-altitude solitude make the challenging journey rewarding.
2. Rara Lake (The Queen of Lakes)
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Altitude: 2,990m
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Location: Mugu District (Karnali Province)
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The Hook: Nepal’s largest and deepest freshwater lake. Located within the Rara National Park, this destination offers a pure wilderness experience. The lake is famous for its waters changing color multiple times a day, ranging from deep blue to purple and emerald. An adventurous 10-12 day trek or flight/hike combination is required.
3. Shey Phoksundo Lake
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Altitude: 3,611m
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Location: Dolpa District (Shey Phoksundo National Park)
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The Hook: Renowned for its almost mythical striking turquoise color and the absence of aquatic life due to its high mineral content. It is the deepest lake in Nepal. The region is the cultural heart of Dolpo, offering a rare glimpse into the Tibetan-influenced Bon-Po religion.
4. Gokyo Lakes (Series)
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Altitude: 4,700m to 5,000m
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Location: Solukhumbu District (Everest Region)
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The Hook: A massive series of six main glacial lakes, designated as a Ramsar Site. The lakes are sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. The primary draw is the ascent of Gokyo Ri nearby, which offers the most spectacular panoramic view of four of the world's 8,000m peaks, including Mt. Everest.
5. Tsho Rolpa Lake
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Altitude: 4,580m
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Location: Dolakha (Rolwaling Valley)
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The Hook: One of Nepal’s largest and most beautiful glacial lakes, surrounded by the Rolwaling range, including the majestic Mt. Gaurishankar. The trek to Tsho Rolpa is a challenging yet peaceful adventure through the pristine Sherpa and Tamang cultural villages.
6. Imja Tsho Lake
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Altitude: 5,010m
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Location: Solukhumbu District (Everest Region, near Dingboche)
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The Hook: A dramatic glacial lake located near the route to Everest Base Camp (EBC). It is globally recognized as one of the fastest-growing glacial lakes in the Himalayas, having formed only since the 1960s due to accelerated glacial melt. Visiting Imja Tsho is not just a high-altitude trek but a direct observation of the stark effects of climate change. Mitigation works have been implemented, but the lake remains a powerful, humbling natural wonder surrounded by peaks like Lhotse and Island Peak.
7. Kapuche Lake
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Altitude: 2,546m
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Location: Kaski District (Annapurna Region)
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The Hook: Remarkably, it holds the title of Nepal’s lowest altitude glacial lake. This is a newer, emerging trek offering the raw experience of a glacial lake without the extreme high-altitude risk, often encountered after a short, scenic trek from Pokhara.
II. The Sacred & Heritage Jewels: Pilgrimage and Culture (5 Lakes)
These lakes are central to the nation's spiritual life, drawing thousands of pilgrims, especially during major festivals, making them rich in heritage and human experience.
8. Gosainkunda Lake
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Altitude: 4,380m
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Location: Rasuwa District (Langtang National Park)
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The Hook: One of the most sacred Hindu sites, believed to have been created by Lord Shiva with his trident. It is visited by thousands of pilgrims during the Janai Purnima festival. The trek is a moderate, well-developed route, known for its breathtaking mountain views and surrounding satellite lakes.
9. Panch Pokhari
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Altitude: 4,100m
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Location: Sindhupalchowk District (Jugal Himal)
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The Hook: Meaning “Five Ponds,” this group of five sacred lakes lies at the base of the Jugal Himal range. It is the ninth highest altitude wetland in the world. The pilgrimage is challenging but steeped in Himalayan folklore and traditional rituals, offering a deep cultural immersion.
10. Mai Pokhari
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Altitude: 2,100m
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Location: Ilam District (Eastern Nepal)
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The Hook: A unique Ramsar Site (Wetland of International Importance) known as the "Lake of Flowers." It is easily accessible in the lush, rolling hills famous for tea plantations. The lake is considered sacred, with multiple levels and rich biodiversity, making it perfect for a tranquil nature retreat.
11. Bhairav Kunda
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Altitude: 4,100m
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Location: Sindhupalchowk (near the Tibetan border)
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The Hook: Another highly sacred lake named after the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva (Bhairav). The trek is less crowded and more challenging than Gosainkunda, involving crossing the Jalbire pass, making it an adventurous pilgrimage for those seeking deeper spiritual solitude.
12. Dudh Pokhari
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Altitude: 4,560m
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Location: Lamjung District (Manaslu Region)
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The Hook: Known as the “Milk Pond,” due to its often milky-white color from glacial flour. It is a holy site for both Buddhists and Hindus, surrounded by towering peaks like Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Baudha Himal. The trek offers a rare, culturally rich alternative to the Manaslu Circuit.
III. The Valley & Wetland Wonders: Accessibility, Wildlife & Recreation (10 Lakes)
These lakes are perfect for short trips, day excursions, and those interested in bird watching, boating, and enjoying stunning mountain reflections without undertaking high-altitude treks.
13. Phewa Lake (The Crown Jewel of Pokhara)
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Altitude: 742m
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Location: Pokhara, Kaski District
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The Hook: Nepal’s most popular and accessible lake. Famous for the near-perfect reflection of Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) on its surface. The centerpiece is the Tal Barahi Temple, situated on an island in the middle of the lake, offering a mix of religious heritage and easy recreation (boating, dining).
14. Indrasarovar Lake (Kulekhani Reservoir)
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Altitude: 1,533m
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Location: Makwanpur District (Markhu/Kulekhani)
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The Hook: The largest artificial lake in Nepal, created by the Kulekhani Hydropower Project. Located only 45-50 km from Kathmandu, it is an incredibly popular weekend escape. Visitors enjoy easy access, boating, fishing (famous for local fish dishes), and the scenic beauty of the reservoir surrounded by rolling green hills.
15. Begnas Lake
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Altitude: 650m
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Location: Pokhara Valley, Kaski District
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The Hook: The second-largest lake in the Pokhara Valley, known for its peace and serenity as a quieter alternative to Phewa. It is excellent for relaxing boating trips, fishing, and viewing the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges from a distance.
16. Rupa Lake
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Altitude: 600m
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Location: Pokhara Valley, Kaski District
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The Hook: Often called the "Twin Lakes" alongside Begnas. Rupa Lake is a major bird watching destination and is smaller and more ecologically managed than its larger neighbor, offering excellent opportunities for tranquil nature observation.
17. Ghodaghodi Tal (Lake Complex)
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Altitude: 205m
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Location: Kailali District (Terai Region)
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The Hook: A massive complex of oxbow lakes, recognized as a Ramsar Site in the lowlands. It is critical for globally threatened species such as the Bengal Florican and the Marsh Crocodile. This is a crucial wildlife and biodiversity heritage site.
18. Bish Hajari Tal (20,000 Lakes)
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Altitude: 285m
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Location: Chitwan District (Chitwan National Park)
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The Hook: Another important Ramsar Site, consisting of numerous small lakes and wetlands within the buffer zone of Chitwan National Park. This is a premier spot for wildlife tourism, offering high chances of sighting one-horned rhinos, various deer, and abundant bird species.
19. Taudaha Lake
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Altitude: 1,300m
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Location: Kathmandu Valley
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The Hook: Extremely accessible, located just south of Kathmandu city. It holds a deep cultural significance linked to the myth of the serpent king, Karkotak Nag, whose home was protected by the Buddha's intervention. It is a popular spot for migratory birds in winter.
20. Gangapurna Lake
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Altitude: 3,540m
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Location: Manang District (Annapurna Region)
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The Hook: A stunning, naturally dammed glacial lake fed directly by the melting Gangapurna glacier. Its proximity to the main Annapurna Circuit trail makes it a must-visit rest and acclimatization point, offering incredible, up-close views of the surrounding peaks reflected in its milky blue water.
21. Birendra Lake
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Altitude: 3,691m
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Location: Gorkha District (Manaslu Region)
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The Hook: Located near the Manaslu Base Camp, this beautiful glacial lake is often encountered on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It is fed by the mighty Manaslu Glacier, providing a serene, yet powerful, testament to the ongoing geological processes of the Himalayas.
22. Syarpu Lake
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Altitude: 1,335m
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Location: Rukum District (Mid-Western Nepal)
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The Hook: A highly underrated, pristine lake that is increasingly accessible by road. Surrounded by lush hills and featuring boating facilities, it represents the potential for emerging local tourism in the Mid-West. It offers a calm, non-touristy lake experience perfect for rest and local immersion.
Conclusion: Your Journey to Nepal's Watery Wonders
Nepal's lakes are a microcosm of the entire nation - from the heights of Tilicho to the tropical warmth of Ghodaghodi and the engineering marvel of Indrasarovar. They offer unparalleled diversity, serving as sacred pilgrimage sites, challenging trekking goals, and tranquil escapes.
Whether you are planning a multi-week expedition to the glacial heights or a relaxed cultural trip to the Pokhara Valley, including these liquid jewels in your itinerary is essential for a complete Nepali experience.
Let Best Heritage Tour craft the perfect lake-focused itinerary for you, ensuring the right balance of adventure, culture, and rest across Nepal’s stunning geographical spectrum.
Begin Planning Your Nepal Lake Tour with Best Heritage Tour
Ready to set your sights on these incredible natural wonders? Contact our expert itinerary planners today.
Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 | +977-9810043046
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com | bestheritagetour@gmail.com
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Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 27th November, 2025
