Situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level, Gaja Daha, a serene high-altitude lake in Jaimini Municipality–3, Baglung, is emerging as a significant destination for religious and nature-based tourism. Surrounded by lush rhododendron forests and with panoramic views of Himalayan ranges including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre, the lake is undergoing active development to enhance its religious and tourism appeal.
Gaja Daha
Historically revered for its spiritual significance, Gaja Daha lies at the intersection of Jaimini Municipality, Galkot Municipality, Kathekhola, and Bareng Rural Municipalities. In recent years, the lake has witnessed the addition of several tourism infrastructures including a view station, traditional stone-paved walking trails with railings, and a lakeside swing set for photography.
Led by the local government and community initiatives, significant milestones have been reached. A 20-foot temple dedicated to Siddha Baraha is currently under construction in the lake’s inner premises. Ward Chair Krishna Bahadur Bhujel of Jaimini–3 confirmed that the temple is being built with a combined fund of Rs. 2 million, raised from a local Mahayagya and individual contributions.
“In the past year, the municipality invested Rs. 300,000 in building a scenic viewpoint. Now we are constructing the Siddha Baraha Temple and enhancing pedestrian access. The ongoing infrastructure development is elevating the area’s aesthetic and spiritual value,” said Bhujel.
To fund these developments, a Mahayagya religious event was held, successfully collecting Rs. 7.2 million, as provincial and local government support has been limited. The funds are being utilized to develop tourism infrastructure such as walking paths, religious shrines, and sanitation facilities.
Gaja Daha is just 24 kilometers from the Baglung district headquarters. Although the road has been blacktopped up to Singana, the final 14 kilometers still need upgrading to improve accessibility. Local resident Himal Subedi, a frequent visitor, emphasized the importance of improving the road for better visitor flow.
Every year, traditional fairs are held at the Siddha Baraha Thaan during Baikuntha Chaturdashi and Bala Chaturdashi, drawing devotees from Jaimini, Galkot, Baglung, Kathekhola, and Bareng. “During Bala Chaturdashi, there’s a rush of devotees for the Satbij sowing ritual,” Bhujel added.
Visitors can also experience authentic homestay hospitality and traditional food in the cool climate of Gaja Daha. Recognizing its potential, the Gandaki Province Government has listed Gaja Daha among the top 100 emerging tourist destinations.
Jaimini Municipality’s Deputy Mayor Harihar Sharma stated that the collected funds will be invested in further tourism infrastructure development. A master plan is also being prepared for the holistic development of the lake, including the construction of a full-sized statue of Lord Baraha and broader promotional campaigns.
Previously overshadowed due to limited infrastructure and promotion, Gaja Daha is now witnessing renewed focus from both the local community and the government. Efforts are being made to develop it into a major religious and historical tourist attraction in the region.
