Glacial lakes: Centre of tourist attraction in Manang

By Yadu Prasad Bhatta,Manang, Aug. 30: With gradual improvement in weather, tourists flock to Manang to enjoy the scenic beauty of its snow-capped mountains, lakes, hills, and stunning views of the Himalayas. Tourists are particularly drawn to the glacial lakes situated in the area.

The towering hills and waterfalls in Manang captivate the hearts of visitors, especially foreign tourists who are fascinated by the desire to see and climb the Himalayas. 

They are particularly enchanted by the clean and pristine waters of the waterfalls. Tourists claimed that enjoying the lakes formed by the melting glaciers here is an unmatched experience.

On the first day of their journey to the district, tourists are enticed by the pristine waterfalls seen in the lake settlements, which make them wonder what more the area might offer. Famous lakes in the region include Kajhinsara Lake, Drona Lake, Gangapurna Lake, Clean Lake, Green Lake, Dhukur Pokhari, Ice Lake, Pongkar Lake and Tilicho Lake.

These lakes attract tourists, said Konjo Tenzing Lama, the Chairperson of Narpa Bhumi Rural Municipality. He said, “Tourists who visit here are especially drawn to the lakes, snow-capped mountains and waterfalls. We are committed to creating an environment where they can enjoy the lakes and waterfalls comfortably.”

He further said that the rural municipality was engaged in development and construction to ensure easy access to the waterfalls and lakes and was also exploring new lakes. “We have allocated a budget for finding new lakes and constructing infrastructure around the existing ones. It is our responsibility to protect our treasures,” Lama said.

Manang Ngisyang Rural Municipality has the highest number of lakes in the district. Lakes such as Dhukur Pokhari, Green Lake, Clean Lake, Gangapurna Lake, Tilicho Lake, Ice Lake, and Pongkar Lake are located in the rural municipality. The rural municipality has allocated a budget for constructing pathways to these lakes and developing necessary infrastructure.

The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) has also been supporting efforts to provide access to these lakes. ACAP, along with the rural municipality, has been installing various signs along the routes to the lakes. 

Kanchha Ghale, Chairperson of Manang Ngisyang Rural Municipality, said that a budget has been allocated for the safety and conservation of the lakes. He added that due to the richness of lakes, some are still relatively unknown.

Most lakes here are formed by water coming underground from the upper mountains. The influx of tourists further encourages development in the region, said tourism entrepreneur Binod Gurung. He stressed the need to develop Manang not only as a tourism hub but also as a location for film shooting.

Tourists visit here during two different seasons, and a separate fee is charged for each season. Tourists come to witness the mountainous and high-altitude scenery, observe the customs of the Manang residents, and experience the natural beauty. 

Similarly, some visit Manang to trek along the Annapurna Circuit, passing through Thorang La to reach Mustang or Pokhara. The gateway to the Annapurna Circuit is at Manange Chautara, Lamjung Besisahar Municipality-7.

The Annapurna Circuit connects five districts, including Lamjung, Kaski, Manang, Mustang, and Myagdi. Tourists typically arrive at Besisahar from Kathmandu by vehicle and then begin their journey, exploring various places in Manang along the trekking route.