Boating in Phewa Lake comes into operation again

POKHARA: JULY 22 – Boating in Phewa Lake, which had been closed for nearly two and a half months, has reopened.

Phewa Lake boating has long been a popular tourist attraction in the City of Lakes.

Since April 27 of this year, authorities in Pokhara Metropolitan City have imposed prohibitory orders to halt the spread of the second wave of Coronavirus.

The resumption of boating has not only delighted domestic tourists but also workers who make a living from boating. Mangal Nepali, Vice-Chair of the Phewa Lake Boat Entrepreneurs Committee, stated that boating has been resumed after consultation and coordination with the appropriate authorities.

Those who wish to use boating services have been required to follow the health safety protocols put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The 20-foot longboat will be limited to four service seekers, while the 18-foot longboat will be limited to three people at most, according to vice-chair Nepali. Previously, a boat could hold up to nine people.

“In Phewa Lake, eight to nine boats are permitted. “The resumption of boating service aims to provide relief to boat operators and field workers,” he explained.

The Taalbarahi Temple, located in the middle of Phewa Lake, has yet to be opened to the public. The evening worship rituals have recently been halted.

On regular days, a total of 764 boats were operating in the Lake, which covered an area of 5.726 square kilometres.