Nagdaha
A small natural lake in Dhapakhel, Lalitpur — a serpent-revered pond and an easy green escape on the southern edge of the Kathmandu Valley.
- Altitude
- 1,340 m
- Coordinates
- 27.626°, 85.317°
Current Weather
Nagdaha (नागदह, 'serpent lake') is a small natural lake in Dhapakhel on the southern rim of the Kathmandu Valley, in Lalitpur district. Unlike the valley's many man-made pokhari, Nagdaha is a genuine natural pond, and one of the very few in the valley.
As the name suggests, the lake is associated with nags — the serpent deities of Hindu and Newar tradition — and is considered sacred; a small shrine stands by the water and locals worship here, particularly on Naga Panchami. The lake is fringed by willow trees and is a popular spot for boating, picnics, and an easy day out from Kathmandu and Patan.
Nagdaha is an undemanding half-day trip — a quiet patch of green and water close to the city, with views toward the southern hills. It pairs well with a visit to the Newar towns of the southern valley such as Bungamati and Khokana.
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