The scenic Bulbule Lake in Birendranagar, Surkhet, has become a prominent tourist destination, capturing the hearts of both domestic and international travelers. The iconic line, “Bulbule ताल, चौतारीमा भेट भयो यो साल,” from the movie Bandhaki perfectly encapsulates its allure.
A Natural Wonder
Nestled in the lower region of the Birendranagar valley, surrounded by picturesque hills, Bulbule Lake owes its origin to underground water bubbling to the surface. Located at an elevation of approximately 657 meters above sea level, the lake has grown significantly in size, from an initial 12,000 square meters to its current expanse of 28,500 square meters.
Recent enhancements, including the introduction of motorboats, have further boosted the lake’s appeal, making it a hotspot for visitors. Spanning 31.5 bighas, Bulbule Lake is now one of Karnali Province’s major tourist attractions, drawing more than 500 daily visitors on average, and over 5,000 during holidays.

Economic Contributions
The lake has become a key source of revenue for Birendranagar Municipality. According to Nirmala Bastola, an official at the ticket counter, daily ticket sales generate about NPR 15,000, which can rise to NPR 35,000 on holidays. The lake’s popularity has also stimulated local businesses, providing a much-needed boost to the regional economy.
Nearby Attractions
Adding to Bulbule’s charm is the proximity of other sites, such as Kakrebihar and Deuti Bajyai, which have also gained popularity among visitors. The area is a favored spot for picnics and sightseeing, particularly during holidays.
Calls for Better Management
Despite its growing popularity, visitors have raised concerns about the need for better infrastructure. Suggestions include building public restrooms, improving pathways, installing adequate lighting, and adding amenities like water stations and charging points. Purna Prasad Paudel, a school principal, highlighted the necessity of creating a safer environment for evening visits, along with better promotional efforts to enhance Bulbule’s appeal.

Government Initiatives
The Karnali Province government and local stakeholders are working on plans to further develop Bulbule Lake and its surroundings. Businessman Om Prakash Tiwari emphasized the importance of a comprehensive strategy to make Bulbule and nearby attractions like Kakrebihar a preferred choice for tourists, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
Similarly, businessman Ramesh Khadka stressed the importance of preserving Bulbule’s unique identity while promoting it on a national and international scale. The local and provincial governments have pledged to collaborate on enhancing the area’s tourism potential, ensuring Bulbule Lake becomes a landmark destination.
A Bright Future
With its natural beauty, growing infrastructure, and increasing visitor numbers, Bulbule Lake is poised to become a cornerstone of Karnali Province’s tourism sector. With continued development and effective management, it holds the potential to not only elevate Surkhet’s economy but also position the region as a premier tourist destination in Nepal.
Source: RSS