Phewa Lake- A Semi Natural Freshwater Lake in Pokhara

Phewa Lake is the second largest lake in Nepal and is the largest lake of Pokhara with an area of 4.43 sq. kms. This stunning freshwater lake lies at Lakeside which is on the southern part of Pokhara. The lake is one of the famous places in Pokhara among tourists. It is also a destination for pilgrims visiting since there is Tal Barahi Temple in the Lake. And the lake is popular for boating, fishing and the reflection of Mt. Machhapuchhre.

As it is a semi natural lake, the lake is made possible with the dam which is on the eastern side of the lake. The main sources of water on the lake are from Harpan Khola and other smaller streams. Along with it, Pokhara city being the highest rainfall area in Nepal, the rainwater also helps to maintain the level of water in Phewa Lake.

People of Pokhara use the Phewa lake water to generate electricity. After the water passes from the hydropower, it flows to the Devis Fall which is the only underground waterfall in Nepal.

Myth behind the origin of Phewa Lake

There is a myth about the origin of Phewa Lake. An older woman roamed around Phewa, begging for food, but no one helped her. An elderly couple decided to help her and feed her a meal.

This older woman was Goddess Barahi herself. She told the couple to seek safety from the impending danger in the city and flee to a nearby hilltop. Goddess Barahi had threatened to attack the city's people, so the elderly couple went to the hilltop. The couple looked back from the hilltop to see the lake had drowned the city.

Tal Barahi Temple now is that hilltop. And the lake around the hilltop is the Phewa Lake that we know of today.

Tal Barahi Temple

Tal Barahi Temple which lies on the Phewa Lake, is the most significant religious place in Pokhara. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and Lord Vishnu, which is why many devotees visit there.

Since it is in the middle of the lake, you'd have to take a boat to reach the temple. Boating on the lake and going to the temple are among the best things to do in Pokhara.