Ghodaghodi Lake

Ghodaghodi is not one lake but a system of more than a dozen linked oxbows and ponds set in sal forest in the far western Terai, covering some two and a half thousand hectares with the surrounding woodland, listed as a Ramsar wetland. Lotus covers much of the surface in season. It is important for birds, with around a hundred and forty species recorded including cotton pygmy goose, storks and the endangered lesser adjutant, and for reptiles, with marsh mugger crocodiles in the water. The lakes are sacred to the Tharu communities around them, with a temple on the shore and a festival that draws worshippers. It sits directly on the East-West highway, which makes it easy to stop at, though few travellers do.

What you actually see

• Lotus-covered water - the lakes under flower in season.
• Waterbirds - storks, geese and adjutants on the open water.
• Sal forest - the woodland enclosing the lake system.
• The shore temple - the Tharu shrine and its festival.

When to go

November to March for birds and comfortable weather; lotus flowers in the warmer months from around June to September, which is also monsoon. Early morning is best for birds.

Honest expectations

Facilities are minimal, with no visitor centre and few boats. Access to the water is limited in places by vegetation. The highway runs close and brings noise. Crocodiles are present, so wading is unwise.

Nearby

Dhangadhi lies west; Bardia national park is east.