Taudaha Lake - A Serene Lake with Fishes and A Historical Tale

Taudaha Lake is the largest natural lake in Kathmandu that covers an area of 4.63 square km. The name is derived from two words in the Newari dialect, “Ta” which means ‘snake’ and “Daha” which means ‘lake’. It is a peaceful lake with a view of lush greenery around. And a pink blossoming flower tree is in the middle of the lake. On the occasion of Nag Panchami, devotees come to worship the idol of the snake in the northwestern part of Taudaha Lake.

This lake is on the left side of the road on the way to Dakshinkali temple at a distance of about 7 kilometers from Balkhu Chowk. On the way to Taudaha Lake, there is a beautiful hill called Chobar with Manjushree Park, Whoopee Land and a Monastery. Also the lake is nearby to other popular hills like White House and Hattiban. So, there is much more than the lake itself to witness.

Best time to visit Taudaha Lake

On a sunny day, you can visit Taudaha Lake all year round. The lake is filled with fishes, and watching them eat as you feed them makes you feel at peace. Since there is a walking area around the lake, you can take a walk there as well. Also you can observe people gathering and just being present in the moment. There are huts around the walking area, so you could take a rest and enjoy the snacks.

Myths about Taudaha Lake

Water Drainage From The Chobar Hill Created Taudaha Lake

Kathmandu was filled as a giant pool of water in the past. Manjushree, a mythical character is believed to have cut a hill from the south near Chobar. This drained the water from Kathmandu Valley, but not all water was drained. Taudaha Lake is believed to be the remaining lake after that drainage. Few more ponds and lakes remained as well, and the Chobar gorge that we know of today is that cut in the hill.

King Karkotak, the king of Serpents

It is believed that King Karkotak, the king of the serpents was enraged because of the water drainage of the lake. It made many nags, who were half-human and half serpent homeless. The locals who settled around Taudaha Lake built a palace underwater to please the King, studded with beautiful stones as an offering to him. King Karkotak was impressed, but he demanded to not cause any disturbance to the underwater kingdom again. In return, he’d protect the people around the lake too.