Kupinde Lake

Lake & pondPahadHidden gem1 min read

In Nepali: कुपिण्डे दह · Also known as: Kubinde Daha · कुपिण्डे दह

Kupinde Lake, Salyan
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
A sacred lake in Salyan's hills, said never to rise or fall, with fairs at the full moon.

Kupinde Daha is the largest lake in Salyan and gives its name to the Bangad Kupinde municipality. Local belief holds that its water level stays the same whatever the season, and it is worshipped as a goddess, with fairs held at Janai Purnima and other festivals.

Salyan is known for its oranges and for the Kumakh hills. The lake is a pleasant, rarely visited stop between Dang and the Rukum and Jajarkot hills.

What to see and do

Walk the lakeshore and forest paths, visit the shrine, and experience the local fair at festival times. The surrounding hills of Salyan are known for oranges and Chhetri and Magar villages.

Good to know

Facilities are minimal; bring food and water. Ask locally about road conditions.

Quick answers

Where is Kupinde Lake?
Kupinde Lake is in Salyan district, Karnali Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
What is the altitude of Kupinde Lake?
About 1,400 m (4,593 ft) above sea level.
How much does it cost to visit Kupinde Lake?
For a 3-day trip from Nepalgunj, about NPR 5,000 (≈ US$37) per person on a budget, or NPR 15,500 (≈ US$115) 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 Kupinde Lake?
Plan 1 night there; with travel from Nepalgunj and back, about 3 days in all.
Do I need a permit or ticket for Kupinde Lake?
No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
When is the best time to visit Kupinde Lake?
October–April; Janai Purnima
How do I get to Kupinde Lake?
By road from Salyan Khalanga or via the Rapti Highway. It is about 62 km (straight line) from Nepalgunj.
What is Kupinde Lake called in Nepali?
कुपिण्डे दह
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