Khayer Lake: Glacial Source & Depth Guide
Explore how Khayer Lake formed, its glacial meltwater sources, estimated 12–18m depth, water temperature cycles, and high-altitude geography.
4,660 m (15,288 ft)
12 – 18 m (40 – 60 ft)
1°C – 4°C (Autumn/Spring)
Annapurna South Glacial Melt
Direct Geographical & Hydrological Insight
Maintained and verified by licensed Nepal trekking operator EMD Treks (License #8928-091). We compile firsthand field knowledge and regional geological context for the Annapurna massif.
Khayer Lake sits at 4,660 meters in a glacial cirque beneath the southern wall of Annapurna South (7,219m), making it one of the least-documented alpine lakes in Nepal's Annapurna region. Most articles focus strictly on the trekking route. Few explain what the lake actually is: where its water comes from, how it was carved out of solid rock, and how deep it really goes.
This guide answers those questions directly, drawing on field observations from our local trekking guides alongside geological and hydrological data for the Annapurna massif.
Khayer Lake at a Glance: Geographical Summary
| Geographical Feature | Hydrological Detail |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 4,660 m (15,288 ft) above sea level |
| Lake Classification | Glacial cirque lake |
| Primary Water Source | Glacier runoff & snowmelt from Annapurna South (7,219m) |
| Estimated Maximum Depth | 12 – 18 meters (40 – 60 feet) at center |
| Geographic Location | Myagdi District, Gandaki Province, Nepal |
| Protected Status | Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) |
| Dominant Backdrop Peak | Annapurna South (7,219 m) south face wall |
| Water Temperature | 1°C to 4°C in trekking season; frozen solid Dec–Feb |
What Type of Lake Is Khayer Lake?
Glacial Cirque Formation
Khayer Lake is a classic glacial cirque lake. A cirque is an amphitheater-shaped basin carved into a mountainside by glacial ice over thousands of years. As the ancient glacier eroded rock through plucking and abrasion, it excavated a deep depression. When the ice retreated, meltwater filled the rock basin to create Khayer Lake.
Water Origin & Catchment System
The lake is fed directly by glacial runoff and seasonal snowmeltflowing off Annapurna South's hanging glaciers. Inflow surges during spring and monsoon months, then drops dramatically in winter when glacial sources freeze solid. Outflow feeds down into the Myagdi River watershed.
How Deep Is Khayer Lake? (12m – 18m Estimate)
Local Knowledge vs. Formal Bathymetry
Local estimates place Khayer Lake's maximum depth at approximately 12 to 18 meters (40 to 60 feet) at its center. This figure comes from generations of local herder and guide observations.
Because of its remote elevation (4,660m) and difficult access, no formal bathymetric sonar survey has been conducted on Khayer Lake by scientists. Therefore, depth numbers remain working estimates rather than laboratory-verified data.
Water Temperature & Hypothermia Warnings
Near-Freezing Temperatures (1°C – 4°C)
Even on warm sunny spring days, the water remains 1°C to 4°C because it is fed directly by glacial snowmelt. In winter (Dec–Feb), the lake freezes solid.
⚠️ Swimming Strictly Discouraged
Swimming or entering the lake is strictly forbidden for safety and cultural reasons. Full-body immersion at 1°C causes cold-shock hypothermia within two minutes.
Sacred Significance of Khayer Baraha
Khayer Lake is a sacred pilgrimage site for local Gurung and Magar communities. The shrine of Khayer Baraha Temple sits on its shores, drawing devotees during August Janai Purnima festivals. Visitors are expected to show full cultural respect, maintaining quiet and avoiding water pollution.
Frequently Asked Questions: Khayer Lake Depth & Source
How deep is Khayer Lake?▼
Local estimates place Khayer Lake's maximum depth at approximately 12 to 18 meters (40 to 60 feet) at its center. Because no formal bathymetric sonar survey exists, this figure is an estimate based on local guide knowledge.
Is Khayer Lake a glacial lake?▼
Yes. Khayer Lake is a glacial cirque lake, formed inside an amphitheater-shaped rock basin carved by ancient glacial erosion at the base of Annapurna South.
What is the source of Khayer Lake's water?▼
Khayer Lake is fed primarily by glacial meltwater runoff and seasonal snowmelt from the south wall glaciers of Annapurna South (7,219m), along with alpine basin precipitation.
Where is Khayer Lake located in Nepal?▼
Khayer Lake is located in Myagdi District, Gandaki Province, Nepal, inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, situated directly beneath Annapurna South.
What is the elevation of Khayer Lake?▼
Khayer Lake sits at 4,660 meters (15,288 feet) above sea level on an exposed high alpine plateau.
Does Khayer Lake freeze in winter?▼
Yes. Khayer Lake freezes completely solid during winter months (December through February), as glacial melt inflow slows and air temperatures remain well below freezing.
Can visitors swim or bathe in Khayer Lake?▼
No. Swimming or bathing in Khayer Lake is strictly discouraged. Water temperatures stay at near-freezing 1°C to 4°C, posing severe hypothermia risks, and the lake is considered sacred.
Why is Khayer Lake considered sacred?▼
The lake is associated with Khayer Baraha, a local deity worshipped by Gurung and Magar communities. Pilgrims visit during August Janai Purnima festivals.
Which mountains surround Khayer Lake?▼
Annapurna South (7,219m) towers directly above the lake. Along the trail, Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Nilgiri Himal (7,061m), Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre are visible.
Is Khayer Lake inside the Annapurna Conservation Area?▼
Yes. Khayer Lake falls within ACAP, Nepal's largest protected conservation area, managed for environmental preservation and community tourism.
Trek to Khayer Lake with Certified Local Navigators
Experience the sacred glacial cirque of Khayer Lake with EMD Treks (Nepal Tourism License #8928-091). Our local guides provide route safety, altitude monitoring, and cultural context.