Tucked away just an hour’s drive from the vibrant streets of Pokhara, Rupa Lake offers a tranquil escape into nature. Less crowded and more secluded than its neighboring lakes, Rupa is a sanctuary of still waters, lush hillsides, and rural charm. It’s ideal for those who seek peace, birdwatching, photography, or simply a quiet retreat from the city’s buzz.
🌿 Why Visit Rupa Lake?
Unlike the more popular Phewa and Begnas lakes, Rupa remains relatively untouched by tourism. This makes it a perfect spot for travelers looking to experience Pokhara’s natural beauty in solitude. The lake is home to a variety of birds, lotus blooms in season, and mirrored reflections of the surrounding forests and hills—perfect for nature lovers and mindfulness seekers.
🚗 How to Reach Rupa Lake
There are two scenic routes you can take, each offering a unique adventure:
1️⃣ Via Rupakot Resort Road (Drive-In Access)
This is the most popular route. Take a car or bike from Pokhara city through Lekhnath and head toward the luxurious Rupakot Resort, perched on a hilltop. From here, follow the downhill road to reach the lakeshore. The journey offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range and both Begnas and Rupa Lakes side by side.
🏞 Tip: Stop at the resort’s viewpoint café for breathtaking aerial shots of the twin lakes!
2️⃣ Via Sundari Danda + Suspension Bridge (Hike-In Adventure)
If you love soft adventures, this alternative is for you. Head to Sundari Danda, just beside Begnas Lake, and hike through local villages and forested trails. The highlight? A suspension bridge that crosses directly over Rupa Lake, giving you a bird’s eye view of its peaceful waters. It’s an offbeat, photogenic experience.
🚶♂️ Tip: Wear hiking shoes and bring water. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light and breeze.
📸 What to Do at Rupa Lake
- 🐦 Birdwatching: Rupa is home to numerous migratory and local bird species.
- 🚣 Local Canoe Ride (if available): Some locals may offer wooden boat rides across the lake.
- 📷 Photography: Capture the glassy lake surface, wildlife, and rural landscape.
- 🧘 Relax and Meditate: The serenity here is unmatched—perfect for quiet time.
- 🐟 Try Local Fish: In small eateries near the lakeside, fresh local fish is sometimes available.
📝 Final Thoughts
Rupa Lake is a reminder that some of the most memorable places aren’t the busiest—they’re the most peaceful. Whether you reach it via the winding resort road or choose the adventure trail over the suspension bridge, Rupa rewards the quiet traveler with untouched beauty, reflection, and calm
How to reach Rupa Lake: