5 highest lake in Nepal

Published: 02 May 2024 | Last updated: 02 May 2024

Within our small and stunning stunning landscape, lakes hold a special significance, especially in the Himalayan region. But the amazing thing is that even at the higher sea level, the beauty of these lakes is mesmerising.

Join us as we explore this wonderful, highest lake in Nepal.

Highest Lake In Nepal: Exploring Nepal Gems

There are many lakes located in the towering mountains and small hills of Nepal. Some lakes are between 3000 and 5500m above sea level.

This exceptional lake sits at a remarkable altitude and shows the sheer beauty and grandeur of the Himalayas. Without any further ado, let us dive into the top five highest lakes in Nepal.

Lake Name	Location	Altitude (meters)
Tilicho Lake	Manang district, Annapurna Conservation Area	4,919
Phoksundo Lake	Shey Phoksundo National Park, western Nepal	3,612
Gosaikund Lake	Langtang National Park	4,380
Rara Lake	Mugu district	2,990
Gokyo Lakes	Everest region, Sagarmatha National Park	4,700 - 5,000

Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake (4,919 meters above sea level) is situated in Nepal's Manang district within the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is one of the world's highest lakes. Formed over thousands of years by melting glaciers, the lake rests in a breathtaking bowl-shaped valley.

Its significance extends beyond its natural beauty, as it holds deep cultural and religious importance for Hindu and Buddhist communities. According to Hindu mythology, the sage Vyas wrote the epic Mahabharata while meditating here, while it is also believed to be associated with the goddess Parvati. Tibetan Buddhists respected Tilicho Lake for its healing properties.

The journey to Tilicho Lake takes trekkers through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to alpine decorated with colorful wildflowers. Wildlife enthusiasts may be treated to sightings of rare species like the snow leopard and Himalayan blue sheep. Accessible via the Annapurna Circuit from Chame, trekking permits are required to explore this majestic destination.

Phoksundo Lake

Phoksundo Lake (3,612 meters above sea level) is located in Shey Phoksundo National Park in western Nepal. It stands out for its mesmerizing greenish-blue colour and is also the deepest in the country.

The lake is culturally and religiously important for both Buddhist and Bon communities, with several monasteries and stupas surrounding it.

The lake's location in Shey Phoksundo National Park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, and musk deer.

Trekking to Phoksundo Lake is a popular activity that offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and a chance to experience the local Dolpo culture.

Gosaikunda Lake

Gosaikunda Lake( 4,380 meters above sea level) is found in Nepal's Langtang National Park and holds special significance for both Hindus and Buddhists. According to Hindu belief, Lord Shiva created the lake with his trident, a sacred spot.

Every August, during the Janai Purnima festival, many Hindu pilgrims visit to take a dip in its waters, known for its healing properties. Nearby, you'll also find smaller sacred lakes like Saraswati Kunda and Bhairav Kunda.

The Langtang National Park is home to various rare animals, like red pandas and snow leopards, surrounding Gosaikunda. Trekking to the lake offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and a chance to experience the local Tamang culture and traditions.

Rara Lake

Rara Lake is situated in the remote region of Mugu in western Nepal. It is known for its boasting serene beauty at an elevation of around 2,990 meters (9,810 feet) above sea level. Encircled by dense forests and snow-capped peaks, it is a haven of tranquillity.

Within Rara National Park, the lake serves as a biodiversity hotspot, home to diverse flora and fauna, including musk deer and Himalayan black bear. Culturally, it holds significance for indigenous communities like the Thakuri and Magar.

Visitors can trek from nearby villages like Jumla, boat on the lake's clear waters, or camp by its shores.

Gokyo Lakes

The Gokyo Lakes is a group of six lakes fed by glaciers that are found in Nepal's Everest region. They sit at heights ranging from 4,700 meters (15,400 feet) to 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), one of the world's highest freshwater lake systems.

These lakes cover a large area of wetlands, recognized as a Ramsar Site in 2007 for their ecological importance. Located within Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the lakes also hold cultural and religious significance. The lakeshores are decorated with Buddhist symbols, like stone walls and prayer flags.

At the same time, there's even a Hindu temple nearby dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu. The Gokyo Valley is a popular destination for trekkers seeking quieter trails than the Everest Base Camp route. It offers breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu, along with opportunities to explore the Khumjung Sherpa village and learn about the legendary yeti.

To wrap up, The highest lakes in Nepal are hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. From Tilicho Lake to Phoksundo Lake, they're important parts of Nepal's culture and nature.

Trekking to these lakes with Nepal Vision Trek is like embarking on a grand adventure. You'll see amazing landscapes, learn about local traditions, and maybe even spot some rare animals along the way.

By exploring responsibly and supporting conservation efforts, we can ensure that these natural wonders remain for generations to come.

FAQ

These lakes are primarily formed by glacial processes, with their basins carved out by retreating glaciers over thousands of years.

These lakes provide vital water sources for local flora and fauna, supporting a diverse ecosystem in the surrounding areas.

These lakes are often considered sacred by local communities, who hold various cultural and religious beliefs about their origins and spiritual significance.

The flora and fauna around these lakes vary depending on the location, but they often include a diverse range of plant and animal species adapted to high-altitude environments.

Accessibility to these lakes varies, but many can be reached by trekking along established routes, which may range in difficulty.

Visitors should be aware of the risks associated with high-altitude environments, including altitude sickness, weather changes, and rugged terrain, and take necessary precautions such as acclimatization and proper gear.

Yes, local communities often perform traditional rituals or ceremonies at these lakes, particularly during religious festivals or special occasions.

Some of these lakes may have historical significance, such as being mentioned in ancient texts or having served as important landmarks for historical travelers and traders.

These lakes are home to unique ecosystems and geological formations, and each has its own fascinating stories and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers.

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