Tucked away in the northern hills of Sindhupalchok district near the Nepal–China border, Bhairav Kunda is a sacred alpine lake that offers far more than just scenic mountain views. Situated at an altitude of 4,250 meters, this hidden treasure presents a breathtaking blend of spirituality and untouched natural beauty. Despite its relative proximity to Kathmandu, Bhairav Kunda remains largely undiscovered, making it a perfect destination for those who seek peace, reflection, and adventure.
About Bhairav Kunda
Bhairav Kunda holds deep religious significance in both Hinduism and Buddhism. According to Hindu mythology, the lake is named after the fierce incarnation of Lord Shiva (Bhairav), who symbolizes destruction but also protection. It is said that the reflection of Bhairav can be seen in the lake, and many believe the water has the power to cleanse one’s sins.
Each year during the full moon of Janai Purnima, hundreds of pilgrims travel from across Nepal and even from nearby Tibetan regions to take a holy dip in the freezing waters. This ritual is believed to bring spiritual cleansing and protection for oneself and one’s family.
Locally, Bhairav Kunda is also known as “Ama Chhemen,” meaning “Mother’s Pond.” This name captures the deep cultural tradition of revering nature as a maternal force, nurturing, pure, and sacred.
Reaching Bhairav Kunda
Although remote, Bhairav Kunda is accessible with a bit of off-road adventure and trekking. The journey usually begins from the village of Bagam, which is reachable by four-wheeler. From Kathmandu, the route heads east through Kavrepalanchok along the Araniko Highway. While the highway is well-maintained, the road becomes rough as you divert towards Chagam and further ahead.
We started our journey with two Honda Dio 125 scooters and a jeep from ASAP Car Rental. As the smooth tarmac gave way to bumpy off-roads, the sense of adventure grew. Though the roads were tough, the changing landscapes—villages nestled in valleys, forested ridges, and distant snow peaks—made the ride feel magical.
We spent our first night in Chagam. The village offered modest yet comfortable accommodations at a fair price, giving us a much-needed rest after a long ride.
Chagam to Chokar-Mokar
On the second day, we set out from Chagam to reach Bhairav Kunda. But as we arrived at a place called Chokar Mokar, light rain began to fall, and the weather showed no signs of clearing. We decided to stay overnight there and begin our hike the next morning.
Usually, trekkers choose to stay in Bagam village, which lies between Chagam and Chokar Mokar. From there, the trail to Bhairav Kunda is a common and manageable one-day hike.
The Hike to Bhairav Kunda
We began our hike at the crack of dawn. The lake wasn’t far in terms of distance, but every step felt like walking deeper into a world untouched by modern life. The beauty was overwhelming. Towering cliffs, misty forests, and far-reaching views of Himalayan ranges like Rolwaling, Gaurishankar, and Yugal created a scene that looked like it was painted by nature itself.
As we climbed higher, silence surrounded us. Only the wind and occasional bird calls accompanied us. And then, the lake appeared serene, still, and sacred. It mirrored the sky above, wrapped in snow and silence. Standing at its edge felt like standing between two worlds.
Why Visit Bhairav Kunda?
If you’re someone who seeks not just a place, but an experience, Bhairav Kunda offers that and more. Surrounded by alpine forests, dramatic cliffs, and spiritual energy, this destination is ideal for nature lovers, trekkers, and anyone on a quest for inner peace.
Along the trail, you may meet Sherpa and Tamang communities whose hospitality is simple and heartfelt. They are the cultural stewards of this sacred region and play an essential role in keeping its traditions alive.
The Future of Responsible Travel
Bhairav Kunda, like many hidden gems in Nepal, holds enormous potential for sustainable tourism. But with that potential comes responsibility. As travelers, it’s crucial to protect the sanctity of such places. Avoid littering, respect local customs, and support local businesses. Over-commercialization and careless tourism could strip Bhairav Kunda of its raw, untouched charm.
By choosing destinations like this, we not only enrich our journeys but also empower local communities. As more Nepalis explore their own country, there’s hope that rural tourism can create livelihood opportunities and inspire younger generations to stay and build at home rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
Final Thoughts
Bhairav Kunda is not just a place on the map, it’s a feeling. It’s the stillness of the mountains, the purity of sacred waters, and the stories whispered by the wind. Unlike crowded tourist destinations, it remains raw, spiritual, and deeply personal.
Visiting Bhairav Kunda feels like a gentle rebellion against the noise of modern life. It reminds us that nature still has the power to heal, to humble, and to inspire.
Article By: Puspa Devkota
Photos By: Abhishek Dhakal, Suyash Regmi, Rojin Pathak
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