Geographical Information
Nepal, a landlocked country in the northern hemisphere of Asia, lies between 26⁰ and 30⁰ north latitude and 80⁰ and 88⁰ east longitude. Bordered by China to its north and India to its east, west, and south, covering an area of 147,181 sq. km. The country measures about 145 km-241 kmnorth to south and 850 km west to east. Nepal’s diverse geography ranges from 59 meters of Mukhiyapati Musharniya in Dhanusa to 8848.86 meters of Mt. Everest, the World's Highest peak in the Soloukhumbu district.
Nepal is divided into three regions topographically: the mountain region to the north, the hilly region in the middle, and Terai to the south. The lowland of Terai covers 17%, the hilly region in the middle covers 68%, and the Mountain region covers 15 % of the total area of Nepal.
The Mountain region has an altitude range from 4800 meters to 8848.86 meters above sea level. It includes the world’s tallest peaks, such as MtEverest(8848.86m),Mt Kanchenjunga(8586m),andMansalu(8163m). It is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts as it offers world-renowned trekking destinations and mountaineering activities, including Everest Base Camp Trek,Manaslu Circuit Trekking, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, and Lobuche Peak Climbing.
The Hilly region altitudes range from 610 meters to 4800 meters. This region features the most developed and populated areas like Kathmandu and Pokhara valleys. These areas are rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, making them the top tourist destinations. The Durbar Squares in Kathmandu Valley, Pashupatinath Temple, Swyambhunath, Changunarayan, Phewa Lake, and the natural scenery of Pokharaare the major attractions in this region.
The lowlands in the south, Terai region range from 59 meters to 610 meters at altitude and are home to 47 % of Nepal’s population. This region’s rich biodiversity offers various tourist attractions including Bardiya Jungle Safari and Chitwan Jungle Safari. Along with its natural offerings, it is also the home to scared Janakpur Dham and Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha.
Political diversification of Nepal
Nepal is divided into 7 provinces, 77 districts, and 753 municipal units. More than 140 ethnic groups speaking more than 124 languages, make Nepal the most diverse country. Kathmandu, the Capital city is located in Province 3 and serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country.
Climate
Nepal's diverse topography offers a wide range of climatic conditions. In the northern Himalayas, summers are cool while winters are harsh and severe. The terai in the south experience a hot summer and mild to cold winters. Nepal experiences 1500 millimeters of annual mean rainfall, depending on the region.
The climate of Nepal can be categorized into four main types:
Tropical Climate
The Terai region generally experiences a tropical climate, with summer temperatures exceeding 40⁰ C in some areas and winter temperatures ranging from 7⁰ C to 23⁰C. This area experiences significant rainfall between 80″ and 100″ (2000mm and 2500mm).
Temperate Climate
The hilly region experiences this climatic condition, with temperatures varying between 0° C and 30° C. This area receives an average rainfall of 60″ (1500mm), offering a balanced mix of summer and winter temperatures.
Alpine Climate
This climatic condition is found in Mountain regions, with winter temperatures below 0°C and summer temperatures not rising above 16°C. Annually, this area experiences rainfall of 20″ (500mm).
Kathmandu Valley offers the best climatic conditions year-round. The average temperature in Kathmandu is between 20°C and 35°C in the summer and between 2°C and 12°C in the winter.
Conservation Area
Annapurna Conservation Area
Established in 1992, the Annapurna Conservation Area is Nepal's largest conservation area, covering 7629 square kilometers. With an elevation range from 790 to 8,167 meters, this conservation area spans the districts of Lamjung, Kaski, Myagdi, Manang, and Mustang. The conversation area encompasses diverse landscapes from the world’s deepest Kali Gandagi George to ‘Thorongla Pass’, the highest pass in the world.
Home to 500 species of birds and wildlife such as pheasants, snow leopards, Kashmir Musk deer, Himalayan Black deer, and red panda. Additionally, the area shelters 40 reptile species and 23 amphibian species, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Manaslu Conservation Area
Located in the northern part of the Gorkha district Manasalu Conservation Area was established in 1998 A.D. This area covers an area of 1663 sq. km and its elevation ranges from approximately 1400 meters to 5156 meters. This protected area is renowned for the best trekking trails in Nepal such as Manasalu Circuit Trek and Tsum Valley Trekking.
Over 2000 species of plants, 39 mammals, 201 birds, 11 butterflies, and 3 reptiles have been recorded here in Manaslu region. This region is home to diverse flora and fauna such as Snow Leopard, Musk deer, Red fox, Brown bear, Lynx, Himalyan serow, wooly hare, and Himalyan marmot. It also serves as the habitat for various species of birds including Snow partridge, golden eagle, Tibetan snowcock, Himalayan griffon, chukor partridge, and many more.
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
Located in Nepal's eastern region, the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is named after Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), the third-highest peak in the world. Established in 1998, this protected area covers 2,035 square kilometers in the Taplejung district, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 8,586 meters It shares borders with Qomolangma National Nature Preserve in Tibet to the north and Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim, India, to the east, offering a unique mountain ecosystem.
The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is home to a diverse range of biodiversity. More than 2,000 species of flowering plants, 252 bird species, 22 animal species, 82 insect species, 6 amphibian species, and 5 fish species have been recorded here. The area is especially renowned for being a key habitat for the elusive Snow Leopard and other wildlife like Black Bears, Red Pandas, and the Golden-breasted Fulvetta bird.
Gaurishankar Conservation Area
Named after the Garishankar Himal, this Gaurishankar Conservation Area was established in 2010 A.D. It covers an area of 2179 sq. km across the Sindhupalchok, Dolakha, and Ramechhap districts, its elevation ranges from approximately 968 meters to 7181 meters.
Serves as the natural corridor connecting Langtang National Park and Sagarmatha National Park,Gaurishankar is rich in biodiversity and also holds cultural significance. 44.5 % of the area is covered with forest and bushes, 8.8 % of cultivation land, 2.77 % of glaciers, and the remaining with barren land. The area is home to 77 species of mammals including Red Panda, Assam Macaques, Himalayan gorals, Indian muntjacs, and golden cats. It also habitats 235 bird species, along with 16 species of fishes, 22 species of reptiles, and 9 species of amphibians. The plant life is equally diverse, with over 565 plant species, including forests of Pinus roxburghii, Schima-Castanopsis, and Alnus, and unique flora like birch-rhododendron and juniper.
Api Nampa Conservation Area
Api Nampa Conservation Area is located in the Darchula district of western Nepal, bordering India and China. Established in 2010, this conservation covers an area of 1903 sq km with elevation ranging from 518 m to 7132m. Named after Mt. Api (7132 m) and Mt Nampa (6757m), offering extreme altitude variation.
This protected area is the habitat for diverse wildlife including 43 species of mammals, 263 species of birds, 30 species of butterflies, 69 species of fishes, and over 700 plant species. It serves habitat for notable plants such as Yarsagumpa, Talis Patra, Kutki, Sugandhwal, Jatamansi, and Panchaule as well as birds species like Danphe (Impeyan pheasant), Monal, Yellow-billed chough, Red-billed chough, Snow cock, Blood pheasant, and many others
Blackbuck Conservation Area
The smallest conservation area in Nepal, the Blackbuck Conservation Area was established in 2009 A.D. to preserve the endangered ‘Black Buck’. Located in the Bardiya district close to Bardiya National Park, it is also locally popular as Krishnasar Conservation Area which covers an area of 15.95 sq. km. In 2009, 172 blackbucks were recorded, which has now increased to 293.
The area features both natural forests, such as Simal-Khair, and planted forests like Sisso, along with 109 species of plants. With 14 mammal species,12 reptile species, and 64 bird species, it provides a crucial habitat for diverse wildlife.
Hunting reserve
Dhorpatan Hunting reserve
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, established in 1987 is Nepal’s only hunting reserve, covering an area of 1325 sq. km. It is located on the lap of Dhaulagiri Himal, in the East Rukum, Myagdi, and Baglung district with an elevation ranging from 2850 to 5500 meters from sea level.
This protected area is well-known for its large population of blue sheep, with 852 recorded in 2007. Other notable animals found here include Himalayan tahr, musk deer, Ghoral, pheasants, and Himalayan black bears. Hunting in reserves is strictly regulated, with a limited number of permits issued each year to promote sustainable hunting and wildlife conservation.
Additionally, the reserve is home to distinctive ecosystems and landscapes. The flat meadows, known locally as Patan, are rich in plant diversity, with 58 vascular plants, 36 endemic flowering species, and 137 bird species, making them a haven for flora and fauna enthusiasts.
Wildlife reserve
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Established in 1976 on the floodplain of the Sapta Koshi River, the Koshi Tapu Wildlife Reserve spans the Sunsari, Saptari, and Udayapur districts of Nepal. This reserve is a sanctuary for diverse ecosystems in the eastern terai, covering an area of 176 sq. km, with an elevation ranging approximately 75 to 51 meters from sea level.
Declared a Ramsar Site in 1987, the wildlife reserve is a mix of riverine forests, grasslands, and marshy vegetation. The reserve is home to 31 species of mammals including Asian elephant, hog-deer, wild boar, smooth-coated otter, and golden jackal. Known as a birdwatcher’s paradise, Koshi Tappu is one of Nepal's 27 important bird areas, habitating over 500 species of resident and migratory birds. These include birds like watercock, Bengal florican, Indian nightjar, dusky eagle owl, black-headed cuckoo shrike, striated grassbird, common golden-eye, gull-billed tern, and swamp francolin
National Parks of Nepal
Chitwan National Park
Located in southern Nepal, Chitwan National Park was the first national park established in 1973 A.D. With a total area of 952 square kilometers and an elevation of approximately 200 meters above sea level, it is located in the Chitwan, Makawanpur, and Nawalpur districts. This national park was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 A.D. and is well-known for its one-horned rhinoceros. It also serves as a habitat for a variety of other wildlife, such as the Royal Bengal Tiger, Sloth Bear, Common Leopard, Wild Water Buffalo, Spotted Deer, Hog Deer, Barking Deer,Sambar Deer, Swamp Deer, Bison, Grey or Terai Langur, Fish Eater Crocodile, Indian Rock Python, and Mars Mother (Asian Alligator). Furthermore, Chitwan National Park is home to a remarkable 650 species of birds out of 886 found in Nepal.
Bardiya National Park
Bardiya National Park, established in 1976 A.D., is located in the southwestern part of Nepal. Situated within the Badriya District, it covers an area of 968 square kilometers and has an elevation range of approximately 80 to 120 meters. This protected area is renowned for its diverse wildlife and picturesque natural scenery. Badriya National Park is a habitat for a diverse array of wildlife, including Royal Bengal Tigers, One-horned Rhinoceros, Asian Elephants, Pangolins, Blue Bulls, Sloth Bears, Four-horned Antelope, Leopard Cats, Swamp Deer, Grey Wolf, River Dolphins, Monitor Lizards, etc. In addition, 350 bird species have been recorded in the park. Furthermore, the park's landscape is adorned with numerous significant tree species, including Shorea robusta, Adina Cardifolia, Terminalia tomentosa, Lagestroemia Parviflora, and Pinus Roxburghii, making it an appealing destination for nature lovers.
Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha National Park, which includes the world's tallest peak, Mount Everest, was established in 1976 A.D. Located in the northeastern region of Nepal, specifically within the Solukhumbu districts. The park covers 1148 square kilometers and has an elevation range of approximately 2780 to 5300 meters. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 A.D., this national park offers an unparalleled trekking experience amidst dramatic mountain summits, Himalayan glaciers, mountain passes, and deep valleys featuring rugged landscapes. Moreover, Sagarmatha National Park provides a natural habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, including red pandas, snow leopards, wild yaks, grey wolves, Himalayan Thars, golden jackals, Musk Deer, and more. The park has several tree species, including pine, hemlock, fir, juniper, and birch. Furthermore, approximately 250 bird species have been recorded here.
Langtang National Park
Established in 1976 A.D., Langtang National Park, also known as Himalayan National Park, is situated in the northern part of Nepal. It spans across Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Sindupalchowk districts, covering an area of 1710 square kilometers within an elevation ranging from approximately 1500 to 7234 meters. The highest point in the park is Langtang Lirung, which stands at 7,245 meters (23,770 feet) Langtang National Park is a popular destination for trekkers and adventurers, with attractions such as Gosaikunda and Kyanjin Gompa. Furthermore, Langtang National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Snow Leopards, Red Pandas, Clouded Leopards, Leopard Cats, Himalayan Brown Bears, Himalayan Black Bears, Musk Bears, Wild Boars, Ghorals, and common langurs. In addition, 350 bird species have been recorded here.
Rara National Park
Rara National Park, Nepal’s smallest national park located in the distant western region of Nepal. Established in 1976 A.D. across the Mugu and Jumla districts, National Park covers only 106 square kilometers and has an elevation range of approximately 1500-5000 meters. The heart of the park, Rara Lake is Nepal's largest lake, which is 10.8 square kilometers and 167 meters deep. Despite its small size, Rara National Park is home to a diverse range of plant species, including Rhododendrons, Brown Oak, Blue Pine, Black Juniper, and Himalayan Cypress. It also provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including pangolins, snow leopards, musk deer, blue sheep, red pandas, leopard cats, grey wolves, and others. The park also boasts a recorded count of 350 bird species.
Shey Phoksundo National Park
Shey Phoksundo National Park, established in 1984 A.D., is Nepal's largest national park. This unique trans-Himalayan park is located in the Dolpa district and covers 3,555 square kilometers with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 6,000 meters. This national park is named after Nepal's deepest and second-largest lake, Shey Phoksundo. The park is also home to several endangered species, such as the Tibetan Antelope, Golden Eagle, Snow Leopard, Grey Wolf, Musk Deer, Blue Sheep, Goral, Leopard, Himalayan Brown Bear, etc. Furthermore, 250 bird species have been recorded within its boundaries, including the Tibetan Partridge, Wood Snipe, and Crimson-eared Rose finch.
Khaptad National Park
Established in the year 1984 A.D., Khaptad National Park lies in the far-western region of Nepal. It is extended into the districts of Bajhang, Bajura, Accham, and Doti and occupies an area of 225 square kilometers, with elevations ranging from 1500 to 5000 meters. The only mid-mountain national park in Nepal represents a unique and significant ecosystem. This national park is a habitat for diverse wildlife such as Musk Deer, Leopard Cats, Blue Sheep, Wild Boar, Snow Leopard, Grey Wolf, etc. In addition, there exists a diverse range of birdlife, including 300 species.
Notably, Khaptad National Park is well-known for its association with Khaptad Baba or Swami Sachchidananda, who is said to have achieved enlightenment here. Visitors to Khaptad National Park can explore not only the natural wonders, but also spiritual sites such as Khaptad Baba's ashram, the Triveni River, Khaptad Daha, the Shiva temple, the Sahashra linga, the Ganesh temple, Nagdhunga, and Kedardhunga.
Makalu Barun National Park
Situated in eastern Nepal, Makalu Barun National Park was established in 1991 A.D., spanning across Sankuwasabha and Taplejung districts. Covering 1500 square kilometers with elevations ranging from 1500 to 5000 meters above sea level. The deepest valley in the world, Arun Valley, is a significant attraction within the park, especially for bird enthusiasts. There are 300 bird species recorded, including the Hill Partridge, Himalayan Bulbul, and Red-vented Bulbul. Makalu Barun National Park also provides habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, including Red Panda, Musk Deer, Assamese Monkeys, Wild Boar, Grey Wolf, Pangolin, Clouded Leopard, Barking Deer, Leopard Cats, Ghoral, Yellow-throated Martin, and the elusive Snow Leopard, among others.
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, located on the northern side of the Kathmandu Valley, was established in 2002 A.D. and spans Kathmandu, Sindupalchowk, Nuwakot, and Dhading districts. Arguably one of the world’s nearest national parks to the capital city, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park covers an area of 144 square kilometers with an elevation ranging from approximately 1350 to 2750 meters above sea level. This park is a popular retreat for Kathmandu residents, offering an escape from everyday life with its diverse flora and fauna, breathtaking viewpoints, and stunning landscapes. This national park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Red Panda, Common Leopard, Barking Deer, Clouded Leopard, Yellow Throated Martin, Wild Boar, Common Langur, Leopard Cat, and Himalayan Black Bear. Moreover, it is a renowned destination for bird enthusiasts, with a recorded count of 300 bird species, making it an excellent spot for bird watching near Kathmandu.
Banke National Park
Recognized as a ‘Gift to the Earth’, Banke National Park, situated in the southwestern region of Nepal was established in 2010 A.D. Located within Banke district, it covers an area of 550 square kilometers with an elevation ranging from approximately 80 to 120 meters above sea level. Banke National Park shares a border with the Kamdi corridor, which connects it to India's Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary and the neighboring community forests to the south. It is also linked to Bardia National Park, which extends further and connects to the Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary in India.
This national park is well-known for its diverse biodiversity, which provides a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife species such as the Striped Hyena, Royal Bengal Tiger, Four-horned Antelope, Asian Elephant, Wild Boar, Barking Deer, Pangolin, and Spotted Deer. 300 species of birds have been documented within its boundaries.
Sukhlaphata National Park
Established in 1976 A.D., Sukhlaphata National Park is located in the lowlands of Nepal’s far-west region. The untouched wilderness of grasslands is situated in Kanchanpur district, covering an area of 305 square kilometers within an elevation ranging from approximately 80 to 120 squarekilometers. The park is named after Nepal's largest grassland, Shuklaphanta, which is home to the world's largest herds of swamp deer. To the south and west, it shares a border with the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, marked by the Mahakali River, also known as the Sharada River, a significant tributary of the Ganges River. Sukhlaphata National Park is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and numerous natural attractions. Visitors can see a wide variety of wildlife, including Black Buck, Royal Bengal Tigers, Swamp Deer, Wild Elephants, One-horned Rhinos, Leopard Cats, Pangolins, Grey Langurs, and more. The park is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with a recorded count of 350 bird species.
Parsa National Park
Parsa National Park, established in 1984 A.D., is located in Nepal's central south, specifically the inner lowlands. It covers 627 square kilometers of land in the Bara and Parsa districts, with an elevation of about 200 meters above sea level. This national park borders Chitwan National Park to the west and the Valmiki Tiger Reserve in India to the southwest. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, which includes various species of flora and fauna, dense forests, and alpine environments, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 300 bird species documented in the region. Furthermore, Parsa National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the One-horned Rhino, Bison, Royal Bengal Tiger, Wild Elephant, Spotted Deer, Wild Boar, Common Leopard, Sambar, Four-horned Antelope, Pangolin, Asian Elephant, and many others.
Rivers in Nepal
Nepal, a small landlocked country is home to several rivers. As Nepal is thesecond richest country in water resources, there are more than 6,000 rivers in Nepal with a combined length of approximately 45,000 km. Among them, about 100 rivers are more than 160km and 1,000 rivers are 11 km long. These rivers enhance Nepal's stunning mountainous landscape and offer various benefits, such as electricity generation and irrigation. Moreover, Nepal's primary tributaries are ideal for water-based tourism and adventurous activities.
The rivers of Nepal can be divided into three categories according to the source of water.
First Grade Rivers: These rivers originate from the Himalayas, by melting of snow. Moving from east to west, the primary rivers in Nepal include the Koshi, Gandaki, Karnali, and Mahakali. These four rivers collectively account for approximately 82% of the total runoff.
- The Koshi River: The longest and largest river in Nepal based on length, outflow, and catchment area. With a length of 507 miles, the Koshi River serves as the primary drainage system for nearly all regions east of Kathmandu Valley. It is formed out of seven tributaries: the Tamor, Arun, Dudhkoshi, Likhu, Tamakoshi, Sunkoshi, and Indrawati. Nearly 33,000 square kilometers of eastern Nepal are drained by the Koshi River. In the Indian region, it is known as the "Sorrow of Bihar." The Koshi eventually merges with the Ganga River at Ursela, located in the Bhagalpur district of West Bengal, India.
- The Gandaki River: This is another first-grade river flowing through the central part of Nepal. It is Nepal's second-largest river by volume, with a total length of 332 miles. It consists of seven tributaries: the Trishuli, Budigandaki, Daraundi, Madi, Marsyangdi, Seti, and Kali Gandaki. Once the Trishuli River merges with the Kali Gandaki at Devghat, it adopts the name Narayani. Eventually, this river flows into the Ganga River near Hajipur in India.
- The Karnali River: This is the longest river stretching over a length of 513 miles, and flowing within the borders of Nepal. This river also has seven tributaries such as Humla Karnali, Mugu Karnali, Tila, Budiganga, West Seti, Thuli Bheri, and Sani Bheri. This river has a total catchment area of about 49,000 square kilometers in western Nepal. Covering a vast catchment area of approximately 49,000 square kilometers in the western part of Nepal, this river stands as the longest in the country.
- The Mahakali: Located along the Nepal-India border, this Himalayan river lies in the westernmost part of Nepal. On the Nepalese side, it is accompanied by two tributaries, namely Chamelia and Surnayagadh.
Second Grade Rivers: Originating from the Mahabharat Range, these rivers depend mainly on spring water and rainwater. As a result, these rivers contain very low amounts of water in winter. Mechi, Kankai, Trijuga, Kamala, Bagmati, Tinau, Rapti, Babai, and Mohana all belong to this grade.
Third Grade (Category) River: Seasonal rivers originating from the Chure Range that primarily rely on monsoon rain, which tends to run almost dry during the winter season. They are not useful for transport and hydropower but are useful for irrigation purposes.
Lakes in Nepal
Nepal is renowned not only for its majestic mountains but also for its abundant lakes nestled within the Himalayan landscapes. These towering mountains and glaciers serve as the origins of numerous rivers and lakes in Nepal, boasting approximately 6000 lakes, including an impressive 2300 glacial lakes. Many of these lakes situated at higher altitudes hold deep religious importance, attracting pilgrims from around the world. Some lakes have earned global recognition for their exceptional attributes and remarkable beauty.
Major Lakes of Nepal are;
Rara Lake
Rara Lake the largest lake in Nepal also known as Mahendra Tal is located in the Mugu district of distant western Nepal. Elevated at 2,990 meters (9,810 ft) above sea level, this renowned turquoise-blue lake is 10.8 square kilometers and 167 meters deep. Rara Lake is truly famous for its unspoiled natural beauty surrounded by lush forests alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks. The major attraction of this place is snow trout which is only found in the waters of Rara.
Phoksundo Lake
The deepest lake in Nepal,Shey-Phoksundo, is located in the Dolpa district of the remote western region. Elevated at 3,611 m (11,849ft), the Y-shaped lake is 650 feet deep and covers an area of 4.94 square kilometers. It is a sacred lake that holds religious significance to Buddhists and the Bonpo religion. The freshwater oligotrophic lake is surrounded by 20 stupas in the southern belt and one Gompa on the eastern side, which holds annual prayers and chants. Shey-Phoksundo is in the heart of the Himalayas with a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritages in the remote part of Nepal.
Tilicho Lake
Tilicho is the highest lake in Nepal, located in Manang district at an altitude of 4919m. Nepal’s most popular lake covers an area of 4.8 square kilometers and is 85 meters deep. It is renowned for its mesmerizing turquoise blue waters, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna, Tilicho Peak, Nilgiri, and Khangsar Khang. The glacial lake in the Annapurna Region is right at the pass of Mesokanta connecting the Manang side of the Annapurna circuit to Jomsom Bazaar. Nestled in the lap of the Annapurna Range, it holds a religious significance as Hindus believe the lake is the ancient Kak Bhusundi lake mentioned in the epic Ramayana.
Phewa Tal
Phewa Lake is the most visited lake located in the tourism capital Pokhara, Nepal. Located at an altitude of 742 m (2,434 ft), the lake covers an area of 5.7 km2 with a depth of about 8.6 m. The lake is famous for the panoramic view and reflection of Mt Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna Peaks in its clear water. It also holds great religious significance to Hindu pilgrims as there is a sacred Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in the Lake.
Indrasarovar
Indrasarvor, also known as Khulekhani Dam, is Nepal's largest man-made lake, located approximately two hours from the capital, Kathmandu. This lake is about 7km in length, more than 200m in breadth, and 100m in depth and can store 85,300,000 m3 (69,200 acre ft) of water. Originally constructed for electricity generation, this dam has also transformed into a captivating natural wonder, drawing domestic tourists year-round due to its unique scenery. The breathtaking view from the dam's summit captivates the heart upon the first glimpse of the Kulekhani Lake. For residents of Kathmandu and Hetauda, Kulekhani Lake/Dam serves as an alternative to the renowned Phewa Lake, offering a similarly serene experience.