5 Incredible Himalayan Lakes

September 10, 2017

5 Incredible Himalayan Lakes:

It’s surprising how many travelers may not be aware of the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas and its majestic lakes. The world is abundant with wonderful massif lakes, but the Himalayan region of Nepal is home to several of them. For those who embark on a mountain holiday, missing out on the mesmerizing lake views can make the trip feel incomplete. In fact, the lakes in the Himalayan region are a significant part of any trekking experience.

Nepal’s high mountains and glaciers create a perfect environment for an array of stunning lakes that are waiting to be explored. For nature lovers and adventure seekers, the following five lakes are among the most popular and attractive destinations in the Himalayas:

Gokyo lakes

Gokyo Lakes are a cluster of pristine glacial lakes located in the Gokyo Valley of the Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal. The lakes are situated at an altitude of 4,700-5,000 meters above sea level and are renowned for their natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

There are five main Gokyo Lakes, which are also known as the “sacred” lakes: Thonak Lake, Gyazumpa Lake, Tanjung Lake, Ngozumpa Lake, and Longbanga Lake. These lakes are interconnected by streams and are a major source of freshwater for the local people.

The crystal-clear water of the Gokyo Lakes reflects the stunning snow-capped peaks of Cho Oyu and Mount Everest, creating a surreal and breathtaking view. Visitors can trek to the Gokyo Lakes via the Everest Base Camp trek, which is one of the most popular and challenging treks in the world.

Apart from its natural beauty, Gokyo Lakes also hold religious significance for the Sherpa community. During the annual Janai Purnima festival, locals offer prayers to the lakes and perform a sacred ritual by circling the lakes three times.

The Gokyo Lakes are also home to an array of flora and fauna, including snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, and musk deer. Visitors can also spot migratory birds such as the bar-headed geese and Brahminy ducks.

Overall, Gokyo Lakes are a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone who wants to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas.

Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake situated in the Annapurna mountain range of Nepal. It is located at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest lakes in the world. The lake is formed by the melting of snow and glaciers from the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including the Annapurna massif, which towers over the lake’s southern end.

Tilicho Lake is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, and rocky terrain. It is a popular destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts who want to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas.

The lake is considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists and is believed to be a holy site where the sage Vyas meditated. According to Hindu mythology, Tilicho Lake is one of the four holiest lakes in Nepal, and it is believed that taking a dip in its icy waters can cleanse one’s sins.

To reach Tilicho Lake, one must embark on a challenging trek that takes several days to complete. The trek starts from the town of Besisahar and passes through scenic villages, lush forests, and steep mountain trails before reaching the lake. The trek is not for the faint-hearted, as it involves high-altitude hiking and requires physical fitness and endurance.

Despite the challenging trek, the rewards of reaching Tilicho Lake are numerous. The crystal clear waters of the lake, surrounded by towering peaks, create a stunning reflection that is truly unforgettable. The serene surroundings and peaceful atmosphere of the lake make it an ideal destination for meditation and introspection.

In conclusion, Tilicho Lake is a natural wonder that is not only breathtakingly beautiful but also holds immense spiritual significance. Its remote location and challenging trek add to its allure, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure, spiritual enlightenment, and a deep connection with nature.

Gosainkunda Lake

Gosainkunda Lake is a high-altitude freshwater lake located in the Langtang National Park in Nepal. It is situated at an elevation of 4,380 m and covers a surface area of 13.8 ha. The lake is considered to be a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists and is believed to have been created by Lord Shiva. The lake is surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains and is home to a variety of wildlife, including snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan black bears. The lake is also a popular destination for trekkers, and there are several trails that lead up to the lake from the nearby villages.

Phewa Lake

Phewa Lake, also known as Phewa Tal or Fewa Lake, is a freshwater lake located in the south of the Pokhara Valley in Nepal. It is the second-largest lake in Nepal and covers an area of about 4.43 square kilometers. It is situated at an elevation of 742 meters above sea level and is the most popular tourist destination in Pokhara. The lake is surrounded by beautiful snow-capped mountains, lush green hills, and dense forests. There are several trails that lead up to the lake from the nearby villages, and it is a popular spot for trekking, fishing, and boating. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan black bears.

Rara Lake

Rara Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the Nepalese Himalayas, located in the Rara National Park. It is situated at an elevation of 2990 m and covers an area of 10.8 sq. km. It is a popular destination for trekking, fishing, and boating, and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green hills, and dense forests. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan black bears. There are several trails that lead up to the lake from the nearby villages, and it is a popular spot for trekking, fishing, and boating.