Dipang Lake: A Tranquil Wetland in the Heart of Pokhara Valley, Nepal

Dipang Lake (also spelled Dipayng or Dipang Tal) is a naturally formed freshwater lake situated in the Lekhnath area of Pokhara Metropolitan City, within the Kaski District of Gandaki Province, Nepal. Known for its serenity, panoramic hill views, and rich biodiversity, Dipang Lake is one of the nine lakes that make up the Lake Cluster of Pokhara Valley, a Ramsar-designated wetland site of international importance.


Quick Facts About Dipang Lake

  • Location: Lekhnath, Pokhara Metropolitan City, Kaski District, Gandaki Province, Nepal

  • Coordinates: Approx. 28.183°N, 84.077°E

  • Elevation: ~800 meters (2,625 feet) above sea level

  • Lake Type: Natural freshwater lake

  • Area: ~0.14 square kilometers

  • Part of: Lake Cluster of Pokhara Valley (Ramsar Site, 2016)

  • Nearby Lakes: Maidi, Khaste, Gunde, Neureni, and Begnas

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March (ideal for clear weather and birdwatching)


Scenic and Ecological Importance

Dipang Lake is well-known for its reflections of surrounding hills, especially Sundari Danda, and the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna range in clear weather. The lake offers a peaceful setting away from crowded tourist zones like Phewa Lake.

Natural Features:

  • Scenic views of surrounding hills and the Himalayas

  • Birdlife: Attracts both resident and migratory birds, including kingfishers, herons, and ducks

  • Aquatic plants like water lilies and reeds support the ecosystem

  • Fish farming and traditional agriculture in surrounding communities


Cultural and Recreational Value

Dipang Lake is culturally valued by local residents and has been developed as a community-managed eco-tourism site. It is also a popular local picnic spot, especially on weekends and during festivals.

Popular Activities:

  • Boating (seasonal, small-scale and community-run)

  • Picnics and family outings along shaded lakeside areas

  • Birdwatching and nature walks on nearby trails

  • Photography: Ideal for sunrise shots and landscape photos

  • Local cultural events and school excursions


Conservation and Community Involvement

Dipang Lake is part of a community-led conservation effort to preserve the natural lakes of the Pokhara Valley. The Lake Cluster of Pokhara Valley was designated a Ramsar Site in 2016, acknowledging its ecological and cultural importance.

Conservation Highlights:

  • Involvement of local youth clubs and women’s groups

  • Programs for wetland awareness, waste management, and biodiversity monitoring

  • Sustainable fish farming initiatives managed by local cooperatives

  • Education and outreach activities on wetland conservation


How to Get to Dipang Lake

  • From Pokhara City Center: Approx. 13–15 km east; 30–45 minutes by car, motorbike, or local bus

  • Route: Take the Prithvi Highway towards Lekhnath; signposts or locals can guide you to Dipang

  • Public Transport: Regular microbuses and local vans run to Lekhnath from Bagar, Mahendrapul, or Prithvi Chowk


Nearby Attractions

  • Begnas Lake – a larger, well-developed lake just a few kilometers away

  • Sundari Danda – a scenic hill ridge between Dipang and Begnas with panoramic lake views

  • Rupa Lake, Gunde Lake, and Maidi Lake – all within short distances, part of the same wetland system

  • Thulakot and Kalika Temples – popular cultural and viewpoint destinations


Final Thoughts

Dipang Lake offers a rare combination of natural beauty, cultural depth, and community stewardship. Ideal for day-trippers, nature lovers, and photographers, it provides a quiet alternative to more commercialized lakes in Pokhara. As a part of Nepal’s Ramsar-listed wetlands, Dipang Lake stands as a testament to local conservation success and sustainable eco-tourism in the heart of the Himalayas.

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