Parvati Kunda lies above Gatlang in a forested hollow, about an hour's walk uphill from the village. Hindus link it to the goddess Parvati, consort of Shiva, and see it as a companion to Gosaikunda on the far side of the Trishuli valley, while local Tamang Buddhists also hold it sacred. Villagers bring offerings on festival days and particularly around the full moon in August.
The trail climbs through pine and rhododendron, with views opening up behind you over Gatlang's roofs, terraces and the Chilime valley. On clear mornings the Ganesh Himal stands to the west. The lake itself is small and calm, surrounded by trees and prayer flags. It is a peaceful place to sit before returning for breakfast or continuing on the trail.
Allow 2–3 hours for the return walk at an easy pace. It works best as an early-morning outing before the walk to Tatopani, or on a rest day in Gatlang. Keep the lake clean, do not swim or wash in it, and walk clockwise around any shrine or chorten you pass.
Good for
- Families
- Photographers
- Pilgrims
- Couples
Questions travellers ask
Where is Parvati Kunda?
Parvati Kunda is a small sacred lake in the forest about an hour's walk above Gatlang village in Rasuwa district, on the Tamang Heritage Trail. It is easy to visit as a short morning walk from a Gatlang homestay. Your guide will show you the path, which branches from village trails.
Is Parvati Kunda connected to Gosaikunda?
Hindu tradition links Parvati Kunda with the goddess Parvati and sees it as a companion to Gosaikunda, the lake of Shiva across the valley. Some pilgrims visit both. Physically they are separate lakes several days' walk apart. Local Tamang communities also consider Parvati Kunda sacred.
Is the Parvati Kunda walk difficult?
No, it is an easy to moderate walk of about an hour uphill on a forest trail, then back down the same way. Children and older travellers can manage it slowly. Wear good shoes, as the trail can be muddy and slippery after rain.
