- Location: Chobhar, Kirtipur
- Taudaha Distance from Kathmandu: 11.3 kilometers
- Lake Depth: Around 6 meters
- Altitude: 1,350 meters
- Opening time: Till 6.30 PM
- Bus Route: Ratnapark (Old Buspark) – Balkhu – Dakshinkali
Taudaha Lake is located in the Kirtipur municipality of Kathmandu. It covers an area of 4.63 square kilometers, is about 500 meters long and 400 meters wide, and has a depth of around 6 meters.
The only natural lake in Kathmandu, Taudaha Lake, is renowned for its scenic beauty, cultural importance, and rich mythological background.
For me, this place feels like a quiet escape near the city, where the air is fresher and the views are mesmerizing. Every visit gives me a sense of peace.
Taudaha Lake History
The history of Taudaha is quite interesting. According to Hindu and Buddhist mythology, Kathmandu Valley was a huge lake a long time ago. A Buddhist figure named Manjushree cut the hills at Chobhar to drain the water and make the valley livable. When the water left, small lakes and ponds were created. Taudaha was one of them.
Taudaha is also known as “Snake Lake.” The name “Taudaha” is derived from the Newari language, where ‘Ta’ means snake and ‘Daha’ means lake. Locals believe that Nāgas, sacred snake spirits from Hindu and Buddhist stories, live in and protect the Lake.
Things to Do in Taudaha Lake
There are numerous activities to be involved in this lake, including
1. Nature walk
You can take a peaceful nature walk along the water’s edge. It’s fun and great exercise too.
2. Enjoy food with a view
There are many cafes and restaurants around Taudaha Lake. Choose a cafe with the best view and enjoy delicious food while relaxing.
3. Relax in nature
The lake is surrounded by lush greenery. You can simply sit on the benches and relax, get lost in the beauty of nature and the stunning view.
4. Birdwatching
Taudaha Lake is famous for several migratory bird species, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching. You can watch them fly, swim, and rest peacefully around the water.
5. Feed Fish
You can buy fish food and feed the fish. Sitting by the lake and watching them gather as you feed them is a peaceful and enjoyable activity. But remember, do not overfeed the fish.
6. Visit Temple
Visit and take a blessing in the Shree Karkotak Nagraja and Nagrani Temple you will find near the lake.
7. Photography and Videography
Taudaha Lake is an amazing place for photography and videography. Every spot gives you something beautiful to record. You can capture the fresh water, green surroundings, and birds flying or resting.
How to Reach Taudaha Lake?
You can reach Taudaha either using a public bus, your own vehicle, or booking taxis or ride-sharing apps.
1. By Public Bus
Take a bus heading towards Dakshinkali from Ratnapark (Old Buspark) and get off the bus at Taudaha. This will take around 40 minutes. You will also find the bus in Kalanki or Balkhu.
2. By Private Vehicle
If you are looking for a comfortable journey, travel in your own vehicle. You will easily find parking there.
3. By Taxis or Ride-Sharing Apps
You can also hire a taxi to the lake, but it will be expensive. However, using ride sharing apps to reach Taudaha Lake is easier and cheaper.
Taudaha Lake Directions
Start from Balkhu and follow the road toward Kirtipur. Keep going through Chobhar on the way to Dakshinkali. Along this route, you’ll see lake on the side of the road.
Taudaha Lake Map
Taudaha Lake Ticket Price
The ticket price for Taudaha Lake is NPR 30 for Nepali citizens and NPR 50 to NPR 70 for foreigners. The parking cost will be around NPR 50.
Nearby Places to Visit While in Taudaha
1. Manjushree Park
Before reaching Taudaha Lake, you will see Manjushree Park on your way. It is a beautiful park in Chobhar, offering stunning views of the hills and landscapes.
2. Bosan Danda
Just beyond Taudaha Lake lies a Bosan Danda. It takes a 15-minute drive or a 3-hour hike to reach this beautiful hill station. You will pass through peaceful trails and villages. From the top, you will get to see the wide views of the Kathmandu Valley and the hills.
3. Whoopee Land
When you are around Taudaha and looking for an adventurous place, Whoopee Land is one of the best places to explore. Just a 7-minute drive from the lake, this amusement and water park offers fun rides, water slides, and a variety of fun activities.
Where to Eat at Taudaha?
There are several restaurants and cafes around Taudaha Lake where you can eat food while enjoying the view. You’ll also find restaurants and tea shops along the way to the lake.
If you love Newari food, the best option is to visit the popular Newari restaurants in Kirtipur.
Things to Avoid While Visiting Taudaha Lake
There are some things you should know before visiting this beautiful lake.
1. Do Not Visit in a School/College Uniform
You are not allowed to enter Taudaha Lake in a school or college uniform, so wear casual attire.
2. Do Not Take Dogs With You
Visitors are not allowed to bring their dogs with them, even if they are well-behaved.
3. No Alcohol Consumption
Drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited in the area to maintain a peaceful, respectful, and family-friendly atmosphere.
4. No Bicycle Riding
The lakeside area is only for walking; you cannot ride a bicycle there.
5. Do Not Feed Fish on Wednesday
Taudaha Lake has introduced a rule restricting feeding fish on Wednesdays. Keep this in mind if you are planning to visit on Wednesday.
6. Do Not Overfeed the Fish
The authorities have warned not to overfeed the fish on other days as well, as they can harm or even kill the fish.
Best Time to Visit Taudaha Lake
Every time of the year is best to visit this lake. However, visiting in the monsoon season will give you greener and more refreshing views.
Final Thoughts
Taudaha Lake is a go-to place whenever you need a break from a hectic routine. If you’re looking for peace and a quiet escape close to nature, do visit this place.
Walk around the lake corner, sit on a bench, take a deep breath, and relax. Let yourself get lost in the beauty of nature.
And do not forget to share your experience in the comment box below.
Asmita Pandey is a travel enthusiast and the founder of Travel Nepal Guides. She enjoys exploring different parts of Nepal, trying local food, and finding lesser-known places along the way. Through her own travel experiences, she shares practical tips and honest insights to help travelers plan their trips and explore Nepal with confidence.
