Nestled in the serene foothills of the Chure region, Gosai Danda Lake has emerged as a picturesque tourist destination. Surrounded by lush green forests, melodious bird calls, and the tranquil lake reflecting golden sunlight, the area is characterized by its clean waters that maintain a refreshing climate year-round.
Located within the Jhovai Kholsi Churia Danda Community Forest, the wetland area has been preserved to create Gosai Danda Lake. It lies about 10 kilometers north of Lahaan Market, situated along the East-West Highway.
Laganalal Chaudhary, Chairman of the Jhovai Kholsi Churiya Danda Community Forest User Committee, emphasized that the conservation and management of the lake are crucial for mitigating the impacts of climate change while simultaneously fostering eco-tourism. Spanning nearly two bighas, the lake is accompanied by four other small ponds, contributing to the region’s natural beauty. The area is being developed as a new eco-tourism destination following the establishment of additional tourist infrastructure.
According to Chairman Chaudhary, the enhancement and beautification of the lake have received financial support from various organizations: NPR 7 million from the Division Forest Office, Lahaan; NPR 2 million from the Department of Forests and Soil Conservation; NPR 4 million from the Division of Water Resources and Irrigation Development; and NPR 1.5 million from the Parliamentary Development Fund. Additionally, the Tourism Development Office in Lahaan has allocated NPR 5 million to be implemented within this fiscal year.
This budget has facilitated the establishment of boating facilities, rest areas, walking paths, toilets, and picnic spots around the lake, although the construction of the Mahadev and Hanuman temples is still underway. There are also plans to build a viewpoint in the future.
Shailendra Kumar Mishra, head of the Division Forest Office in Lahaan, expressed that the local economy can significantly benefit from developing the lake as a tourist site, stating that the office is committed to assisting in this initiative. He urged members of the user committee to identify and utilize the resources within the community forest.
However, challenges remain in accessing this tourist area, particularly during the rainy season when crossing the Jano Khol becomes problematic due to the absence of a bridge. Lahaan’s Deputy Mayor, Ramchali Tar Mahato, acknowledged that municipal resources alone are insufficient for bridge construction and pledged to coordinate with provincial and federal governments for support.
Moreover, Mahato highlighted that the diminishing groundwater levels in the Chure region make it essential for such ponds to act as water recharge sources, reinforcing the municipality’s ongoing support for forest conservation and watershed management efforts.
Dinesh Kumar Mahato, chairman of the District Coordination Committee, noted the importance of addressing climate change challenges while promoting green initiatives and eco-tourism development.
Local residents draw comparisons between Gosai Danda Lake and the famous Fewa Lake in Pokhara, mentioning that a portion of land rises in the middle of the lake, adding to its allure. Chairman Chaudhary emphasized that enhancing the site will not only attract more internal and external tourists but also boost local employment opportunities.
He called for collective support and promotion from all stakeholders to further develop this burgeoning tourist area.
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