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The picturesque Rig Lake and Tilachan Lake, nestled at the summit of Nanga Hill in Nepal, have recently emerged as captivating destinations for tourists. Located in different districts, these lakes can be accessed via the same route, making them an attractive pair for travelers.
Rig Lake belongs to Nisikhola Rural Municipality-6 in Baglung, while Tilachan Lake is part of Sunchhahari Rural Municipality-1 in Rolpa, serving as a border marker between Baglung and Rolpa. Travellers can conveniently reach these lakes through the national pride project, Madhyapahari Lokmarg. A trek from Patihalna Lokmarg allows visitors to reach Rig Lake in 15 minutes and Tilachan Lake in 30 minutes on foot.
These lakes, previously quiet and remote, have garnered attention in recent years. Currently, with the festive season in full swing, the number of tourists arriving has surged, exceeding 100 daily. Rig Lake, located closer to Patihalne, attracts more visitors, while Tilachan Lake, although equally enchanting, sees fewer tourists.
Local resident Bhim Bahadur Gharti Magar reminisces about a time when these areas were primarily inhabited by shepherds and livestock. Now, people from all over the country flock to these lakes to capture stunning photographs and videos. The area's cold climate, refreshing breeze, and serene ambiance add to its appeal.
Tourists are increasingly accessing the lakes through well-maintained roads, such as a motor road constructed two years ago to reach Rig Lake in Nisikhola Rural Municipality. Tilachan Lake is accessible via Goreto Road. Vishal Bista, a visitor from Rukum Paschim, shares his admiration for the area's beauty and the ease of travel after road upgrades.
The rising popularity of Rig and Tilachan Lakes can be attributed to their unique charm, unspoiled surroundings, and breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and other snow-capped mountain ranges. The lakes also provide panoramic vistas of Baglung, Rolpa, East Rukum, Pyuthan, Gulmi, and neighboring regions.
Bharat Puri, a traveller from Gulmi, emphasizes the need for improved infrastructure and roads to enhance accessibility to these lakes, which could further boost tourism in the area. Although Rig Lake can be reached by car, creating a footpath from Patihalne to Tilachan Lake would facilitate tourists and ensure a more enjoyable experience.
While the influx of tourists to Rig and Tilachan Lakes is on the rise, the footpath leading to the area remains rudimentary. Visitors traverse a narrow gorge, often shared with cattle. It takes roughly 5.5 hours by car to reach Rig Lake from Baglung headquarters, with shorter travel times from Galkot, Burtibang, Rukumkot, and Khalanga Musikot. Improving infrastructure and accessibility could help this serene haven in Nepal's Dhorpatan region flourish as a sought-after tourist destination.
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