KAILALI: ‘Pyara’ Lake, spanning Punarbas Municipality-8 and Ward No. 9 of Kanchanpur district near Kailali, is emerging as a model for biodiversity conservation and tourism development.
Known for its natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and rich aquatic life, the lake holds significant potential for attracting tourists.
Dipendra Basnet, Chairman of the Pyara Lake Tourism Promotion and Conservation Committee, said that citizen-led initiatives are being undertaken to protect the lake, which had been neglected due to its remote location.
“We started the lake protection campaign on Asad 26, 2080 BS, to safeguard aquatic animals threatened by human activities while promoting tourism,” he said.
Early efforts were supported by voluntary contributions from locals, which funded statues of rare aquatic animals such as the otter, yellow-bellied turtle, jalakpur fish, deer, and crocodiles. Additional statues of peacocks, simukukhura, and the national bird, the osprey, are planned for installation in the new year.
In fiscal year 2081/82, the government and Punarbas Municipality allocated Rs 11 million for lake conservation, with a contract awarded for Rs 7.349 million to construct a 115-meter embankment and a modern conference hall.
This fiscal year, Rs 500,000 has been invested in lake premises enhancements, including a moon selfie point and a concrete ‘I Love Pyaratal’ structure to attract youth. Last year, a 550-meter gravel road connecting the main road to Pyara Lake was upgraded, and the Sudurpaschim Province government has contributed Rs 1 million for a hiking trail.
Lake features and biodiversity
The lake spans six kilometers in length, with an average width of 70 meters and a depth of 15 to 18 feet. It hosts more than 35 fish species and rare aquatic animals such as the carnivorous ‘Od,’ the yellow-bellied turtle, crocodiles, and jalakpur fish.
The surrounding forests provide habitat for a wide variety of birds, amphibians, and other wildlife, making the area important for birdwatching, particularly during the winter migration season.
Tourism development
To boost tourism, various attractions have been built around the lake, including animal statues, a moon selfie point, and concrete signage. Plans are underway to introduce safari trees and a water fountain to enhance visitor experiences.
Community support
Local residents have actively contributed to lake promotion, donating 25 concrete benches, dustbins, and tri-guards for waste management. Some statues of birds and animals have been funded by local industries and political representatives in memory of deceased family members, reflecting strong community engagement.
Rising domestic tourism
In recent years, domestic tourist arrivals have increased significantly, especially during festivals and holidays. Located approximately 75 kilometers east-southeast of the district headquarters and 30 kilometers from the state capital Dhangadhi, Pyara Lake is now gaining recognition as a developing tourist destination, combining ecological conservation with sustainable tourism initiatives.
The Pyara Taal Tourism Promotion and Conservation Committee believes that protecting and promoting the biologically significant Pyara Taal, along with building tourist-friendly infrastructure, could transform it into a major domestic tourism destination in the Far West.
Local experts warn, however, that without timely attention and support from state authorities, the conservation of the lake—strategically located near the Indian border—could be compromised. (RSS)
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