Jhilmila Lake
In Nepali: झिलमिला ताल
A forest lake in the Chure hills of Kanchanpur, near the Indian border, surrounded by sal jungle and birds.
Jhilmila Tal lies in the forested Chure hills in the north-west corner of Kanchanpur. Its name suggests the glittering (jhilmil) of its water, and it is linked in local tradition with the Mahabharata and with a small shrine beside the shore.
It is a quiet place for birdwatching and walking, reached by rough road through forest. Visitors are few, so go with a local guide from Bhimdatta.
What to see and do
Walk around the lake and its shrine, watch for kingfishers, storks and forest birds, and enjoy the drive through the Chure forest.
Good to know
The area is remote; go with a local guide and check road conditions. Wildlife, including elephants, is present.
Quick answers
- Where is Jhilmila Lake?
- Jhilmila Lake is in Kanchanpur district, Sudurpashchim Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Jhilmila Lake?
- About 300 m (984 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Jhilmila Lake?
- For a 3-day trip from Dhangadhi, about NPR 5,000 (≈ US$37) per person on a budget, or NPR 13,500 (≈ US$100) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 5,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Jhilmila Lake?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Dhangadhi and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Jhilmila Lake?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Jhilmila Lake?
- October–March
- How do I get to Jhilmila Lake?
- By jeep from Bhimdatta via the forest road. It is about 60 km (straight line) from Dhangadhi.
- What is Jhilmila Lake called in Nepali?
- झिलमिला ताल
