Birendra Tal Travel Guide

Birendra Taal, or Birendra Lake, is a stunning glacial lake in the eastern Manaslu region of Nepal. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,691 meters, Birendra Taal is a beautiful turquoise lake resting silently below the imposing Mount Manaslu and fed by the total ice melt coming from its slopes. The trek to the lake is short from the serene Sama Gaun, a small village on the Manaslu Circuit, which makes it one of the most accessible and worthwhile side trips on the circuit. 

Birendra Taal is much quieter than the busy routes leading into the high passes. The trekkers at Birendra Taal are able to relax in nature's embrace and revel in stillness, surrounded by the Himalayas. Witnessing the lake is an incredible experience, as it dazzles in the sunlight while reflecting the surrounding peaks, which are usually equally white, and the sparkling water. Lightly fluttering prayer flags in the cool mountain breeze add to this beauty, with only the roaring of avalanches from the Manaslu glaciers interrupting the mountains' stillness. For travelers, the lake became not only a scenic but also a spiritual and emotional highlight of the trek.

Birendra Taal is a stopover for many trekkers, yet it is more than a glacial lake. It is a place to rest, acclimatize, and bond with the inspiring views characteristic of the Manaslu Conservation Area. No matter your reasons for visiting, whether for photography, cultural experiences, or just enjoying the stillness of mountains, this secret gem adds a case of magic to your trek!

Best Time to Visit Birendra Lake

Spring (March-May)

Spring is definitely one of the most satisfying times to go to Birendra Taal. The air is moderate, with warm days and cool nights, thus making the hike from Sama Gaun to the lake very pleasant. Rhododendrons and various kinds of flowers that have already bloomed in surrounding alpine forests and meadows are giving the trail their bright colors. The lake that appears particularly charming against the clear blue sky is Birendra Taal, with Mount Manaslu and its glaciers visible in the background. Photographers and nature lovers would come this season perfectly to take beautiful pictures of the area. 

Autumn (September–November)

Autumn is considered the best and most popular time to trek to Birendra Taal. As a result of the monsoon rains, the atmosphere is quite neat and the skies are totally clear. Thereon, people going for hiking can have a splendid 360-degree view of the Himalayas without any difficulty, and the calm daytime temperatures of 16-20°C make trekking enjoyable. The nights are crispy but not too cold, so trekkers can have their short evening walks or enjoy the stars by the lake. Generally, the trails are dry and safe, while the teahouses of Sama Gaun and other nearby villages are fully operational, which indicates the good services for travelers. 

Winter (December–February)

The winter season at Birendra Taal is very peaceful and quiet, and there are not many visitors during this period. Often the lake and its surroundings are covered with snow, making it a fairytale land of ice. But the hike can get harder due to low temperatures, snow on the trail, and nighttime. Winter visitors should carry appropriate warm clothing and equipment. The main prize of such difficult conditions is the wonderful and clear blue skies and the snow-covered Himalayas, which can be completely seen without the crowd. 

Monsoon (June–August)

This is the worst period for a trek to Birendra Taal. Heavy rain will make trails muddy and slippery, and landslides and rising rivers will be more common. The mountains are often clouded, making it hard to see the famous Manaslu peak. Nevertheless, if the rain is not a big deal for you, then the valley will be your favorite place as it turns into a green paradise with waters and streams flowing at their strongest. This season is only for those who are daring and well-equipped with the necessary gear to handle wet and difficult conditions. 

How to Reach Birendra Lake?

By Road (Bus/Private Jeep)

Most trekkers first travel by bus/private jeep, with the departing point being Kathmandu. The bus/private jeep ride is 7–9 hours long, a direct route from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, via Dhading and Arughat. The Manaslu circuit trek generally starts in Soti Khola, then takes you to Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, and Namrung, and in about 4-5 days you arrive at Sama Gaun. Birendra Taal is within a short hike from Sama Gaun, so many trekkers will decide on this stop in this place to explore the lake as well as head towards Manaslu Base Camp. Many trekkers will also use it as an acclimatization day before visiting the lake en route to Manaslu Base Camp. You have the option to break up the long bus ride from Kathmandu by spending a night at Soti Khola or Jagat.

Air (Domestic Flights)

The nearest domestic flight is in Kathmandu, and from there, you must travel via road to Soti Khola and then follow the same trekking route in the Manaslu region to reach Sama Gaun. Once you are in Sama Gaun, you will only need to take a short and easy hike for about 45 minutes to 1 hour directly to Birendra Taal. 

By Helicopter

For those limited on time or wanting to take a more luxurious trip, there are helicopter services from Kathmandu to Sama Gaun. Once at Sama Gaun, Birendra Taal is an easy, pleasant hike from this village. This is the quickest way to see the beautiful lake and the majestic surrounding Himalayas; however, it is also the most expensive.

Foods and Accommodation around Birendra Lake

There are no teahouses, lodges, nor food stalls at Birendra Taal itself since it is situated in a remote and natural area away from village settlements. Trekkers who visit the lake usually will return to the nearest and most convenient settlement, which is Sama Gaun, for food and accommodations.

Sama Gaun has a well-rounded selection of teahouses and lodges with lovely rooms, hot meals, and services that provide trekkers with the comforts needed. Typical food consists of Nepali classic dishes, dal bhat, noodles, soups, Tibetan bread, momos, and tea, while some lodges have limited western dishes. Lodges will offer decent accommodations, primarily consisting of shared rooms with communal bathrooms, and blankets will be provided to keep guests warm during the cold mountain nights.

For routes that included trekking part of the Manaslu Circuit, Sama Gaun was one's last main stop before continuing on to Birendra Taal, Pungyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, etc. Due to its popularity, the accommodation fills up quickly during peak trekking season, so it is advisable to book in advance or arrive early to ensure a place to stay for the night.

Major Attractions in Birendra Taal

• Turquoise glacial waters reflecting Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) and surrounding peaks
• Peaceful and untouched natural setting, perfect for relaxation and meditation
• Spectacular views of Manaslu Glacier and high Himalayan ridges
• Alpine meadows and forests surrounding the lake, especially vibrant in spring
• Opportunity to spot Himalayan wildlife and diverse bird species in the area
• Scenic trekking trails leading from Sama Gaun to the lake
• Photogenic landscapes ideal for photography and nature enthusiasts
• Solitude and calm atmosphere, away from busier trekking routes
• Sunrise and sunset views over the lake with the mountains as a backdrop
• Cultural experience in Sama Gaun as the nearest village and base for the hike

Things To Do Near Birendra Tal

Hike to Birendra Taal

The primary activity is the relatively brief hike from the village of Sama Gaun to Birendra Taal. This easy hike will take you through alpine meadows, wooded valley and past secluded side trails, with stunning views of Mount Manaslu and the surrounding peaks. It is a perfect day trip for very easy acclimatization for trekkers or for trekkers seeking a bit of tranquillity away from the more crowded parts of the Manaslu Circuit.

Nature Appreciation and Wildlife Watching

On the way to the lake and around the shoreline, trekkers will be able to see alpine flora, seasonal wildflowers, many species of Himalayan birds, and ephemeral wildlife such as yaks and other types of high-altitude wildlife for the pleasure of the observers, such as wildlife watchers and nature lovers.

Photography 

Birendra Taal pictures very well. The lake is of a light green-blue color, mirroring Mount Manaslu and the nearby glaciers, thus giving the best chances to photograph at sunrise and sunset. The lonely wonders of nature and the adjacent meadows have made it a dreamland for both amateur and professional photographers. 

Meditation and Relaxation 

The peaceful atmosphere of Birendra Taal is just perfect for performing meditation, engaging in quiet reflection, or simply relaxing by the water. The calm nature surrounding, the crisp mountain air, and the faint sounds of nature form a nice harmony together, thus making it an excellent spot to recharge the body and the mind before continuing the trek. 

Picnic by the Lake 

The visitors are allowed, or rather given an opportunity, to indulge in a calm or otherwise peaceful picnic by the lakeside. Needless to say, trekkers can bring some snacks or prepare a packed meal in Sama Gaun and then spend a relaxing time taking in the magnificent views. 

Cultural Experience in Sama Gaun 

The trekkers, before or after the lake visit, can actually go to Sama Gaun to get acquainted with the local Gurung and Tibetan-influenced culture. Seeing the traditional houses, conversing with villagers, and learning their lifestyle are definitely the cultural elements that add value to the trek.

Available Packages

Nepal Trek Adventures offers several packages to include Birendra Taal as part of the longer Manaslu Circuit Trek, or a short excursion visiting Birendra Taal as an acclimatization and short nature trip leaving from Sama Gaun. You  can select any of the packages (standard, moderate, or fully guided trek) on offer depending on your available time, level of fitness, and preferred level of service!

All packages include professional guides, porters, and well-thought-out itineraries that include accommodation and meals within villages (Sama Gaun), making sure every trekker is looked after in a safe and comfortable manner while enjoying the natural peace and beauty of Birendra Taal. Check out our packages:

• Manaslu Circuit Trek – 13 Days
• Manaslu Express Trekking – 10 Days
• Manaslu Tsum Valley Trekking
• Manaslu Circuit Luxury Trek
• Manaslu Base Camp Trekking

Final Words

Birendra Taal is nature's treasure, which is in the area of Manaslu and an excellent place to escape the city life and enjoy the beauty of nature. The water of this lake is blue, and it is located between Mt. Manaslu and the small hill. Also, because of its tranquility, this place is very suitable for both the process of getting used to high altitudes and just a nice quiet rest away from crowded parts of the Manaslu Circuit. Nature enthusiasts, photographers, and the ones who like to be left alone at high altitudes can all benefit from Birendra Taal's promise of the most unforgettable Himalayan experience that mixes up with the stunning landscape and peace and love of the locals.