Baraha Lake in Bhakunde Emerging as a Top Choice for Domestic Tourists
Baraha Lake, a scenic destination in Bhakunde near Baglung Bazaar, has increasingly become a popular choice for domestic tourists. Surrounded by lush green fields, the picturesque lake ranks high on the list of preferred getaways for local travelers.
Recognized as a prominent tourism village in Baglung, Bhakunde’s Baraha Lake draws young visitors not only for sightseeing but also for enjoying organic meals at the local homestays located at the hilltop of Bhakunde.
Located in Baglung Municipality–10, Baraha Lake can be reached via a one-hour hike from Baglung Bazaar. The lake area has been developed into a well-managed and attractive destination following the construction of tourism infrastructure. According to local resident Som Bahadur Thapa Magar, infrastructure worth approximately NPR 5 million was built with funding from the former District Development Committee, now the Federal Ministry of Tourism, along with support from the provincial ministry and Baglung Municipality.
Thapa Magar added that the area, once disorganized, now features a well-built perimeter wall, a preservation system, and railings along the trails, making the lake more visually appealing. He noted that the lake remains lively with visitors year-round and becomes even more attractive during the monsoon, when reflections of the Dhaulagiri mountain and views of Baglung Bazaar mesmerize tourists.
“Although fewer tourists come during the rainy season, the footfall increases significantly on holidays. The popularity of local homestays has also risen along with tourist numbers,” Thapa said. “Visitors from other districts come to escape the heat or the hustle of Baglung Bazaar, and since the destination is nearby, it sees regular traffic.”
In the past, the lake was overgrown with grass due to a lack of management, but it now looks beautiful, he added. The area is not only a scenic viewpoint but also holds historical and religious significance. A major fair is held here during Baikuntha Purnima, drawing large crowds.
Constituent Assembly member and local leader Nar Bahadur Thapa shared that a traditional ritual involving the sacrifice of a ram takes place at the lake on the full moon days of Ashwin and Jestha. “It is believed that worship at the Baraha Temple located near the lake fulfills one’s wishes. Baraha Lake is thus considered a suitable destination for both religious pilgrims and nature lovers,” he said.
Spanning 2,826 square meters, the lake has undergone development with more than NPR 5 million invested to boost tourism and raise local income. Located at an altitude of 1,300 meters, the lake can be reached within an hour’s walk from the district headquarters. Tourists visiting Bhakunde’s homestays, view tower, and the nearby Bhairavthan in Balewa also frequently stop by the lake.
The reconstruction of the Baraha Temple, expansion of the lake area, fencing, and wall construction have all been completed. As the road connecting Baglung Bazaar to the site via Tityang is currently being upgraded, an increase in tourist flow is expected, according to Thapa.
Bhakunde began offering homestay services in 2011 (2068 BS), becoming the district’s first to do so, and has since taken the lead in local tourism promotion. Yama Thapa, operator of Atithi Satkar Homestay, said tourists visit the Baraha Lake and continue on to the Mulabari View Tower to watch sunrise, sunset, and panoramic mountain views. Because Baraha Lake is the closest tourist destination to Baglung Bazaar, it sees a high volume of domestic visitors. However, locals say the lake’s exact depth is still unknown.
