A new tourist lake has been constructed in Hile Jaljale Community Forest, located in Banepa Municipality-2, Kavrepalanchok. The project aims to transform the forest area into a prominent tourist destination. Initiated in December 2022 (Mangsir 2079), the lake’s construction was overseen by the Bagmati Province’s Water Resources and Irrigation Division Office under the Ministry of Water, Irrigation, and Energy.
The lake spans 0.49 hectares in the Hile Jaljale Community Forest (Category ‘B’), strategically positioned to attract tourists visiting the nearby popular destination of Nagarkot, situated on the Kavrepalanchok-Bhaktapur border. According to Ganesh Moktan from the construction company Vijay-Lotus-Tejaswi JV, a dam was built at the confluence of the Okhare and Thumki streams flowing into the Syuro River to form the lake. The initial construction phase, including physical infrastructure and fencing around the lake, has been completed.
The lake construction was contracted for NPR 58.951 million, with a total estimated cost of NPR 169.45 million for additional infrastructure. The lake measures eight meters in height, 11 meters in width, and 182 meters in length. Following the first phase, plans for the second phase include parking facilities, hotels, shops, ticket counters, and other essential amenities.
The Tourism Ministry of Bagmati Province developed a detailed project report (DPR) for this multipurpose lake, proposing boating activities, recreational parks, beautification, and conservation of birds and wildlife in the surrounding areas. Plans also include the construction of treehouses and tree centers to extend the stay of domestic and international tourists.
Hile Jaljale holds significant cultural and religious importance. According to local legends, Lord Shiva, after drinking “Halahal” poison, rested in the area, and Vasuki Naag, a revered serpent deity, is believed to have traveled from this site to participate in the Panauti Makar Mela during the Ghuma Poornima festival. It is said that rain and storms accompany Vasuki Naag’s journey, restoring crops that were damaged during the storm. Locals also believe that worshiping Vasuki Naag in this area grants one’s wishes.
The project is expected to establish Hile Jaljale and Vasuki areas as hubs for tourism and prosperity. By maintaining the forest’s natural beauty, the initiative aims to enhance the local economy and attract more visitors to Kavrepalanchok. Gokul Baskota, a member of parliament from Kavrepalanchok, emphasized that the project is designed to make the region a central destination for cultural, religious, and economic growth.
With its proximity to Kathmandu and Nagarkot, this multipurpose project is poised to become a prime tourist attraction, blending natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities.
