Feasibility study launched for lake at Jaljala tourist site

November 24, Kathmandu: A feasibility study has begun to construct an artificial lake at Jaljala, which is at an altitude of 3,200 meters. Jaljala is a scenic, religious and tourist spot on the border of Myagdi, Parbat, and Kaski districts.

Spanning Annapurna (Myagdi & Kaski), Jaljala, and Modi (Parbat) rural municipalities, the high-altitude meadow is known for panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre peaks.

Deputy Chairperson of Jaljala Rural Municipality, Deepak Acharya, said the lake will boost long-term religious and eco-tourism. This fiscal year, the Irrigation and Water Resources Management Project Office, Pokhara, has allocated Rs 4 million for the study and Detailed Project Report.

Last week, a team led by office chief Bidurman Shrestha and including local leaders conducted a site inspection, assessing geography, water sources, environmental impact, and safety measures.

Project chief Shrestha stated the lake will make Kalanjar-Humpal a major attraction. Ancient Hindu scriptures mention the area as a site of sage penance and spiritual merit, while it remains rich in herbs, deer, and rare birds, including Danphe and vultures.

Jaljala is accessible via trekking routes from Ghodepani-Poon Hill and a motorable dirt road from Lekhphant of Parbat district.