Begnas and Rupa lakes
In Nepali: बेगनास र रूपा ताल
Begnas and Rupa are the second and third largest of the seven lakes of the Pokhara valley. Much quieter than Phewa, they are surrounded by terraced paddy, forest and villages, and Machhapuchhre looks down on both.
Rent a boat at Begnas, walk the Panchabhaiya ridge between the two lakes, or stay in a community homestay at Rupa. The lakes are part of a Ramsar-listed wetland system.
What to see and do
Rent a boat at Begnas bazaar, fish or simply relax on the water, walk the ridge between the two lakes for views of both and the Annapurnas, and visit the lakeside fish farms. At Rupa, community homestays welcome visitors and the lake is known for its bird life.
Good to know
Buses and taxis run from Pokhara to Begnas. Accommodation around Begnas ranges from simple lodges to resorts. Mornings are best for mountain views.
Quick answers
- Where is Begnas and Rupa lakes?
- Begnas and Rupa lakes is in Kaski district, Gandaki Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Begnas and Rupa lakes?
- About 650 m (2,133 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Begnas and Rupa lakes?
- Begnas and Rupa lakes is in or right next to Pokhara, so it is an easy day visit. Budget for a taxi there and back (about NPR 600–1,500, US$5–11) and meals (NPR 1,000–2,500, US$8–19 per person). If you stay in Pokhara, rooms cost about NPR 1,500 / US$11–NPR 4,500 / US$33 a night.
- How many days do I need for Begnas and Rupa lakes?
- Half a day to a full day is enough; it is a short ride from central Pokhara.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Begnas and Rupa lakes?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Begnas and Rupa lakes?
- October–April
- How do I get to Begnas and Rupa lakes?
- About 30–40 minutes by road east of Pokhara. It is about 12 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
- What is Begnas and Rupa lakes called in Nepali?
- बेगनास र रूपा ताल
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