Taudaha Lake — Attraction in Kirtipur Municipality

It’s time that you explore Kathmandu fair and square. Go for off-beaten tracks and trails and enjoy discovering Taudaha Lake. A small lake that’s located in the outskirts of Kathmandu, Taudaha represents ‘snake’ and ‘lake.’

Highlights:The name actually comes from mythology, where it is believed that a Buddhist mythical character Manjushree had cut the hill to drain the water of this lake, which is why the lake is now smaller than it used to be. However, due to the draining of lake, countless nagas, mythological creatures who were half snakes and half humans were left homeless. And therefore, an underwater lake or Taudaha was built, where serpent king and the subjects lived. That’s why the lake is considered tranquil. This lake is perfect for birdwatchers, as a number of migratory species visit the place.

The Taudaha Lake is believed to be a remnant pool of the huge lake that once existed where now the city of Kathmandu sits. According to mythology, a Buddhist mythical character Manjushree cut the hill in the valley's south, allowing the lake's water to drain off, thereby creating land that was duly occupied by people. Folklore suggests that that "cut" in the hill is the Chobar Gorge, a narrow passage from which the Bagmati River exits the Kathmandu Valley. After the water of the ancient lake drained away, a few small lakes and ponds were created beyond the hills. Taudaha is believed to be one of those ponds.

When the lake was drained, countless nagas, mythological creatures that were half human and half serpent, were left homeless. This made the Naga King Karkotak livid. In order to allay his wrath, the locals living near Taudaha built an underwater palace, studded with precious stones and riches beyond imagination. The Serpent King was pleased and ruled his serpent subjects in their underwater kingdom. The king also promised to protect the humans living around the lake, on the condition that the tranquility of his water abode never be disrupted. It is due to this that even today locals do not swim or fish in the lake.

Around 40 species of birds have been recorded out of which 17 are residents, 2 are summer migrants and rest are winter migrants. Black kite, Black drongo, Cattle egret, Oriental magpie robin, Common myna, Jungle crow, Rose-ringed parakeet, White-throated kingfisher and Red-vented bulbul are some of the resident birds. Barn swallow and Indian cuckoo are summer visitors. Winter migrants include the Great cormorant, ruddy shelduck, Northern shoveler, Mallard duck, Gadwall, Eurasian coot, Northern pintail and common teal.

There are many species of fishes in the lake. It is well known for large carps. Common carp, Silver carp, Grass carp, Bighead carp and colourful carps have been introduced in the lake. These non-native species have disrupt the ecosystem and are out-competing the native species. Native fish species include several barbs, catfishes and snakeheads.

Mammals such as Golden jackal, Indian grey mongoose and several rodents are found around the lake.

Checkered keelback and Oriental garden lizard are frequently sighted reptile species.

The lake, arguably the only clean water body remaining in the Kathmandu Valley, is a stop over for numerous migratory bird species. In the winter, hundreds of water birds can be seen in and around the lake. Taudaha lake is one of the important site for...

TAUDAHA Lake is a small lake in the edge of Kathmandu district, the capital city of Nepal. It is the oldest as well as one and only natural lake of Kathmandu. The name "Taudaha" is the combination of Newari words i.e. "Ta" which means snake and "Daha" which means lake. The lake is located at Kirtipur municipality of Kathmandu. At present, it occupies an area of about 4 hectors with a depth of about 5-10 m. This lake is uneven in shape with eight corners and situated at an altitude of 1350 m above sea level. According to the mythological belief, a Buddhist mythical character 'Manjushree' cut the southern hills of the Kathmandu Valley and drained off the water of the valley for human settlements. During that period, countless nagas (snakes), mythological creatures that were half human and half serpent; were left homeless. This made the King of Naga, Karkotak, extremely angry. In order to reduce his anger, the local people near Taudaha built underwater palace for him. He promised to protect the locals around the lake on the condition that the tranquility of his water abode never be disrupted. Due to this reason, even today, locals or any people who visit this place, don't swim or fish in the lake and even don't care about the dead fish of the lake. The lake has a great ecological, cultural, religious as well as economic importance. The lake is surrounded by green ecological area. Some of the domestic animals were also seen grazing there like cow, goat, sheep, etc. The constructed walls can be seen around lake which was built to protect lake from the foreign chemical waste and other pollutants to keep it away from pollution. Taudaha Lake is one of the best place to visit...

Taudaha Lake, situated about 6 kilometers south of Kathmandu, is a serene and picturesque freshwater lake in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. Here are some details about Taudaha Lake:

Location: Taudaha Lake is located in the Chobar region, on the southern outskirts of Kathmandu.

Size and Depth: The lake covers an area of approximately 4.8 hectares. While not very large, it holds cultural and ecological significance. Its depth varies, and it's surrounded by lush greenery.

Birdwatching: Taudaha is renowned for being a habitat for various bird species. It's a popular spot for birdwatchers, offering opportunities to observe both resident and migratory birds.

Cultural Significance: The lake is associated with Hindu mythology, particularly the legend of Manjushree, a Buddhist saint. According to the legend, Manjushree cut a gorge in the Chobar hill to drain the waters of the Kathmandu Valley, creating the Chobar Gorge and leaving behind Taudaha Lake.

Surroundings: The lake is surrounded by a peaceful environment and offers a relaxing atmosphere, making it a favored destination for locals and tourists seeking a quiet retreat from the bustling city.

Conservation: Taudaha faces challenges such as water pollution and encroachment. Efforts are made to conserve and protect the lake, recognizing its ecological and cultural importance.

Visitors often enjoy taking a leisurely stroll around the lake, appreciating the tranquility and natural beauty that...