Chyo Thangi Chyo Pokhari in Taplejung emerging as popular tourist spot

KATHMANDU: Chyo Thangi Chyo Pokhari, located in Yasa (Loden) of Mikwakhola Rural Municipality–5, Taplejung, is gradually becoming a favorite destination for tourists.

With increasing publicity in recent days, both domestic and international visitors are flocking to the area.

Situated at an altitude of 4,400 meters above sea level, the lake is known for its unique color-changing phenomenon depending on the weather.

According to locals, its waters sometimes appear sky-blue and at other times turn reddish.

Tour guides in the area, such as Pande Sherpa, said that visitors often refer to this region as the “Mustang of the East” due to its scenic charm.

Despite limited tourist facilities, the number of visitors coming to experience the natural beauty of Loden has been rising.

Local resident Wange Sherpa explained that in the Thokpya community language, “Chyo” means “pond” and “Thangi” means “tar,” collectively referring to the lake as a “tar pond.” However, many of the lakes in the region are now being promoted under names other than their original ones, and locals emphasize the importance of preserving their traditional names.

Milan Limbu, a local herbalist from Mikwakhola–4 Sanwa village, said that tourists visiting the area can enjoy not only the lake but also the surrounding natural beauty.

From the district headquarters of Phungling, visitors can reach Simbuk by transport in a day and then access Loden via trekking.

While fast hikers can reach Loden in a day, slower trekkers may take two days.

Limbu noted that traveling from Loden to Tokpegola is challenging, requiring crossing a 5,500-meter-high pass with snow-covered, slippery paths and limited infrastructure, necessitating local assistance.

According to Gyanje Sherpa, Ward Chair of Mikwakhola Rural Municipality–5, the region has around 100 lakes

. Some photos and short videos have been shared on social media, generating interest among tourists, but scientific research on these lakes is still pending.

Plans are underway, coordinated by the ward, to conduct scientific studies including measuring depth, length, width, and GPS mapping of the lakes with the help of experts.

Deputy Chair Dandu Sherpa stated that little has been done to conserve the lakes so far, and oversight by the rural municipality has been limited.

He added that as long as human interference is minimal, the lakes remain naturally preserved.

Efforts are ongoing to improve infrastructure, including building trekking paths and basic tourist facilities.

The municipality has also allocated a budget in the current fiscal year to organize video conferences promoting the lakes in Loden and is taking steps to establish homestays for visitors.