CHAUTARA: Bhairav Kunda, located in Bhotekoshi Rural Municipality of Sindhupalchowk, has seen a notable rise in tourist arrivals in recent years.
The high-altitude lake continues to attract both domestic and international visitors for its religious significance and natural beauty.
The sacred lake, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, is also worshipped by the Sherpa community as Ama Chyumen. It lies at an altitude of 4,124 meters above sea level, beneath the Phurbi Ghyachu Pass, which stands at 6,567 meters.
According to Bhotekoshi Rural Municipality Chair Pasang Norbu Sherpa, the lake spans around 84,193 square meters, though its depth has not yet been measured. A nearby 198-meter waterfall further enhances the site’s appeal.
Tourists are drawn to the panoramic views of the Jugal mountain range and the remote Himalayan landscape. Despite the challenging trek—requiring a one-and-a-half to two-day uphill hike from Tatopani Larcha along the Araniko Highway—the destination leaves visitors with lasting impressions of natural beauty.
The area sees heavy footfall during Janai Purnima, when religious devotees gather in large numbers. Locals believe the lake is associated with Lord Shiva in his fierce form, Bhairav, and is considered a sacred site where wishes are fulfilled.
The region also holds historical significance, with the Dugunagadhi fort built during the 1911 BS conflict with Tibet located nearby. The site can also be accessed through multiple trekking routes, including Daklang, Kanglang, Listi, and Chagam, according to local resident Bina Rokka Adhikari.
Another nearby attraction is Deudhunga, located near the Dolakha border, which also draws thousands of pilgrims each year. Together, Bhairav Kunda and Deudhunga have become important religious tourism sites.
Before the 2015 earthquake, around 1,000 foreign tourists visited the area annually. Visitors from Europe, America, Japan, India, and China continue to be attracted by its Himalayan views, including visible ranges in Tibet and parts of Nepal.
The region is also rich in medicinal herbs such as yarsagumba, jatamasi, chiraito, and sunpati, and is home to wildlife including leopards, Himalayan black bears, deer, and even snow leopards.
However, the journey remains difficult, with limited infrastructure forcing trekkers to rely on basic shelters along the route. To address this, the rural municipality has announced plans to improve drinking water access and build shelters along the trail, with long-term plans to develop the route and improve connectivity.
Officials believe better management and promotion of Bhairav Kund could significantly boost tourism, contributing to the local economy and helping put Sindhupalchowk on the global tourism map.
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