Key Takeaways:

• Panchakund Lake at 4,050m now appears as one water body instead of five
• ICIMOD data shows 846% increase in mapped area between 2013–2025
• Experts dispute interpretation: some say expansion, others argue depth
• Local officials urge federal study of risks, moraine dam and geology

KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 3 Panchakund Lake, once known for its five distinct ponds, is increasingly appearing as a single water body, raising questions about climate change and Himalayan lake risks. Situated at 4,050 metres in Annapurna Rural Municipality-4, Panchakund has become a growing attraction along the Maurice Herzog trekking route. Tourism entrepreneur Indra Singh Sherchan recalls seeing five ponds clearly in 2003, but says they are no longer visible as before. The lake lies beneath Annapurna, Franck, Tilicho and Nilgiri mountains, fed by meltwater from Annapurna and Tilicho. According to ICIMOD data, its mapped area grew from 0.041 sq km in 2013 to 0.388 sq km in 2025, an 846% increase. Environmental researcher Ghanshyam Khadka said Panchakund reflects rising temperatures and avalanche risks, warranting closer study. But Tej Gurung, who explored the area in 2010, argued the lake has become deeper rather than larger, cautioning against labeling it a risky glacial lake without field-based research. Locals also call the lake Dikicho, meaning frozen lake. Panchakund carries religious significance, with associations to five elements, blood, milk, copper, purity and gold, and rituals believed to bring merit. A Shiva temple stands nearby, while a hill named Kagabhusundi honors a sage linked to the site. The lake gained visibility after the Maurice Herzog trail opened in 2020, drawing visitors who meditate, photograph and walk along its shores. But officials now warn of environmental uncertainty. Annapurna Rural Municipality Chair Bharat Kumar Pun said no detailed study has yet been carried out, and the local government may request federal support. Experts suggest using satellite data, ground-penetrating radar, seismic surveys and electrical resistivity tomography to assess risks. Shambhu Kumar Mishra, senior watershed conservation officer, noted unexpected heavy rainfall in Himalayan areas has increased flood and landslide incidents. The Gandaki provincial government has profiled lakes but Panchakund lacks a detailed risk assessment. Water from Panchakund flows through Mistri Khola into the Kali Gandaki River, where three hydropower projects with a combined capacity of 152 MW operate. Officials are calling for climate risk identification and early warning systems, with Gandaki's Ministry of Forests and Environment preparing a Kali Gandaki Climate Dialogue to draw global attention. (With inputs from RSS)