POKHARA: The Lekhnath area of Pokhara Metropolitan City, known as the city of seven lakes, is gaining fame not only for its scenic lakes, which are listed as Ramsar sites but also for its popular fish recipes.
This small valley, located northeast of the Prithvi Highway in Kaski district, has become a tourist attraction, largely due to its diverse and delicious fish dishes.
Business owners in the region note that the unique fish recipes have significantly increased tourism.
Numerous hotels and eateries along the banks of Begnas Lake, Majhikuna, Piple, and Damside offer a variety of fish dishes to visitors daily.
The city, surrounded by lakes like Begnas, Rupa, and others, has become a hub for fish lovers.
Many local residents around these lakes are involved in commercial fish farming, with most households in the village of Piple near Begnas Lake relying on fishing as their primary source of income.
The number of fisheries has also increased in lakes such as Dipang, Khaste, Neureni, and Maidi.
According to Tek Bahadur Jalari, owner of The Fisherman Restaurant, the area is widely recognized as a popular destination for fish enthusiasts.
Households earn between Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 monthly from fishing activities.
One of the most popular dishes, grilled fish, features fish marinated in local spices, grilled, and served with fresh vegetables.
Jalari mentioned that social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok have played a significant role in promoting the region’s fish recipes from areas like Majhikuna and Piple.
Additionally, the Rupa Lake Reinstatement and Fishery Cooperative Limited is actively involved in the conservation and sustainable use of fish resources in Rupa Lake.
Chairman Shivaraj Adhikari stated that this initiative has boosted both economic and tourism activities in the region.
The cooperative has over 1,030 members and has provided direct employment to 24 individuals.
The cooperative produced fish worth Rs 20 million in the past year, according to Adhikari.
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