Syarpu Lake

Lake & pondPahadHidden gem1 min read

In Nepali: स्यार्पु ताल · Also known as: Syarpu Daha · स्यार्पु दह

Syarpu Lake, Rukum West
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
One of the largest lakes in the middle hills, among terraced fields near Musikot in Rukum West.

Syarpu Daha lies in a green bowl of terraces and forest in Rukum West, a short drive from the hill bazaar of Musikot. It is one of the larger natural lakes of Nepal's middle hills, and a small temple stands on its shore.

Local government has been developing boating and homestays, and the lake has become a favourite outing for people from Musikot and Salyan. The surrounding Sani Bheri valley is known for rice terraces and Magar and Chhetri villages.

What to see and do

Walk around the lake, visit the shrine, go boating where available, and explore the terraced Sani Bheri valley. Musikot's hilltop bazaar has views over the district.

Good to know

Road access from Musikot is short; accommodation is basic in Musikot and nearby villages.

Quick answers

Where is Syarpu Lake?
Syarpu Lake is in Rukum West district, Karnali Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
What is the altitude of Syarpu Lake?
About 1,400 m (4,593 ft) above sea level.
How much does it cost to visit Syarpu Lake?
For a 3-day trip from Nepalgunj, about NPR 5,500 (≈ US$41) per person on a budget, or NPR 19,000 (≈ US$140) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 5,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
How many days do I need for Syarpu Lake?
Plan 1 night there; with travel from Nepalgunj and back, about 3 days in all.
Do I need a permit or ticket for Syarpu Lake?
No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
When is the best time to visit Syarpu Lake?
October–April
How do I get to Syarpu Lake?
Short drive from Musikot, about 8 hours from Nepalgunj. It is about 94 km (straight line) from Nepalgunj.
What is Syarpu Lake called in Nepali?
स्यार्पु ताल
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