Fewa Lake

Formerly called Baidam Tal, Phewa Lake is one of the most popular lake in Nepal attracting hundred thousands of tourists every year. In the south east section of Phewa lake, there lies a small island where Talbarahi temple is located. Phewa lake is located at an altitude of 742 m (2,434 ft) and covers an area of about 4.43 km2 (1.7 sq mi). It has an average depth of about 8.6 m (28 ft) and a maximum depth of 24 m (79 ft). Maximum water capacity of the lake is approximately 43,000,000 cubic metres (35,000 acre⋅ft). The Annapurna range on the north is only about 28 km (linear distance) away from the lake.

The lake is also famous for the reflection of mount Machhapuchhre and other mountain peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges on its surface. The Tal Barahi Temple is situated on an island in the lake. It is located 4 km from the city’s centre Chipledhunga. Phewa Tal is the travellers’ focal point in Pokhara, and is the second largest lake in Nepal. In contrast to the gaudy tourist development of Lakeside, the steep southwestern shore is densely forested and alive with birdlife. The lush Rani Ban, or Queen’s Forest, bestows an emerald hue to the lake. You can take to the lake in one of the brightly painted doongas (boats) available for rent at Lakeside. Many people walk or cycle around the lakeshore – the trek up to the World Peace Pagoda affords breathtaking views over the tal to the mountains beyond.

Key Attraction around Phewa Lake

1. Tal Barahi Temple
2. Peace Pagoda
3. Bindha Basini Temple

Entry Fee

Entry fee is not required to observe the scenery of Phewa Lake but if you go for boating, you have to pay on an hourly basis. Rates of boating start at Rs 500 per hour with a boatman, or Rs 450 per hour if you paddle yourself and you should rent a Lifejackets at Rs 10. You can also take a boat to Tal Bahari in the center of the temple which costs Rs 100 per person.

Restrictions

1. Life jacket is most during Boating.