Taudaha Lake is considered the last remaining natural lake in the Kathmandu Valley. The story behind its formation is quite fascinating, and I believe everyone should hear it.
I’ve visited Taudaha Lake countless times, and I’m sure that number will only grow in the future. Over the past few years, there have been only minor changes to the area.
Today, we’ll explore everything you need to know for a perfect Saturday trip to Taudaha Lake. Without further delay, let’s dive in!
Key Facts About Taudaha Lake
| Location | Chobhar, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Bagmati Province |
| Area | 463 hectares (source) |
| Altitude | 1,350 m (source) |
| Depth | 5 to 10 m approx. |
| Mode of Transportation | Private / Public vehicle |
| Distance (from Kalanki) | 9 km approx. |
| Time to reach (depends on location) | 1 – 1.5 hours approx. |
| Ticket Price | Rs. 30 (for Nepalese, student discount avaialble) |
| Rs. 50 (for SAARC nationals) | |
| Rs. 70 (for international tourists) | |
| Visiting Hours | Open till 6:30 P.M. |
| Best Time to Visit | All seasons |
Mythological Story of Taudaha Lake
Ekadeshma… Kathmandu Valley was once a massive lake. I’m not kidding.
This isn’t just mythology but a scientifically proven fact. It was known as Paleo Kathmandu Lake.
Then came Sri Manjushree, who cut down one of the hills in Chobhar, draining the water and making the valley habitable. This part, however, is mythology.
As a result, thousands of snakes were left without shelter, angering the King of Serpents, Shree Karkotak, which led to a dispute between him and Manjushree.
After a peaceful settlement, Karkotak was allowed to live undisturbed in the only natural lake left in Kathmandu.
Later, the Newar communities named this lake ‘Taudaha’, where ‘Ta’ means snake and ‘daha’ means lake/pond (source).
Shree Karkotak had also demanded that he and his tribe be respected and left in peace.
Even today, Taudaha is home to many water snakes. If you visit during the monsoon, you might even be lucky enough to spot one (here’s an example).
During Nag Panchami, a religious fair is held every year. Devotees, especially from Kirtipur, visit the lake to offer Shree Karkotak fresh grass, milk, rice grains, and red vermilion powder at the temple near Taudaha.
How to Reach Taudaha Lake?
Taudaha Lake is located in the Kathmandu district itself (Kirtipur-6). No matter where you are in the valley, this place shouldn’t take more than 1 to 1.5 hours to reach.
Most people tend to overlook the lake and head straight to Dakshinkali Temple.
But since Taudaha Lake also holds significant religious and historical importance in Kathmandu, make sure to stop by the next time you’re in the area.
The road to Taudaha Lake is well-paved, making it an easy ride/drive even for beginners. However, be mindful of the speed limit. I did spot a few traffic officers with radar guns after crossing Chobhar.
If you’re new to exploring places, Google Maps will be your best guide. Just head to Balkhu and take the road toward Kirtipur. Keep moving toward Chobhar and proceed towards Dakshinkali. You’ll spot Taudaha Lake along the way.
There are plenty of paid parking services available, charging around Rs. 20 to 30 per hour. These are private properties, mostly restaurants, making some extra cash.
However, this isn’t how it should be. That’s because visitors are required to pay an entrance fee of Rs. 30 per person just to access the lake.
The respective authority should at least provide free parking for visitors. Comment below to show your support!
Things to Do in Taudaha Lake
Proceed downhill to the ticket counter and get your tickets. Once that’s done, here are all the ten activities you can enjoy at Taudaha Lake (just like I promised in the title!):
- First, pay a visit to the Shree Karkotak Nagraja and Nagrani Temple and receive blessings from the serpent king and queen.
- Continue moving forward in an anti-clockwise direction. You’ll notice the Nepalese flag, which was placed here recently.
- Climb the stairs and snap a few pictures to show your patriotism. The view of the lake from here is stunning!
- Head back down and complete a full round of the lake.
- You can even buy fish food and take your time feeding the hungry fish. This is one of my personal favorite activities here.
- Taudaha Lake offers a peaceful retreat for everyone. Just sit on one of the benches, and all your stress will fade away!
- Unsurprisingly, this is also a favorite dating spot for many couples. Maybe you could visit for a peaceful date too. Just don’t get involved in any mischief!
- There are also a few resorts within the premises that offer picnic programs, making it a great family-friendly destination.
- For snacks, you may visit a nearby restaurant/cafe.
- I recently discovered that Taudaha is a paradise for bird lovers and photographers! A wide variety of migratory birds can be found here.
Note: As of 2025, while writing this article, a total of 73 different species of migratory birds have been recorded at Taudaha. Isn’t that amazing?
Expected Budget
From my perspective, this short trip shouldn’t cost more than Rs. 500.
Your main expenses will be fuel (if you’re using a private vehicle) or bus/taxi fare (if you’re traveling by public transport).
You might also need some extra cash for snacks or lunch, depending on the time of your visit.
And, of course, there’s the parking fee to consider.
Final Words
Taudaha Lake is so close to us, yet most of us might not have even stepped foot on the premises once. You can probably relate to this Nepali idiom—najik ko tirtha hela.
If you’ve landed on this page, I’m sure this idea has crossed your mind. Now, don’t hesitate. Share this article with your friends or loved ones, and make plans to visit Taudaha Lake this Saturday!
Happy traveling to south-west Kathmandu!
You might like reading: A short trip to Manichud Daha
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