Last Updated on February 14, 2022 by Treks Planner Nepal
Dhumba lake: “a hidden gem of Jomsom” is also known as Dhampus and Turquoise lake situated in the ever so beautiful Mustang Region. It is a serene, majestic, and holy lake at the base of Mount Nilgiri. This lake is It is situated at a height of around 2,900 meters above sea level.
This beautiful gem of a lake can be reached through a bus ride after reaching Jomsom from where you will be trekking. This lake is about 5.5km west of Jomsom which is roughly 2hrs away. You will also get the chance to pass through the beautiful Thini village. This region is mostly occupied by Gurungs and Magars in the lower areas of the Kali Gandaki, Thakalis around Jomsom, and individuals with solid Tibetan roots, the Lopa, around Muktinath, and up in Mustang.
Besides, there is Jomsom Bon Monastery in the northeast piece of the town. Bon is accepted to have existed in Tibet preceding Buddhism. So, this place is considered one of the focal places where Bon’s religion flourished. The people are very friendly and welcoming. The villagers are mostly engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry for livelihood.
The lake has an interesting story surrounding its origin for being a sacred lake. As the story goes the lake water once turned red on its own with no logical explanation and was at that state for quite a long period of time and only after very long and arduous sacred ceremonies and rituals performed by the devoted Tibetan Buddhists that the water of the lake returned to its natural awe-inspiring color. Since this lake has been considered a sacred lake and to show their devotion and respect the locals never attempt to fish from the lake. There are other various stories as well surrounding the holiness of the lake as people have come to pray for drastic positive changes in their lives.
Apart from the beautiful and sacred lake, you can also visit Kuchup Terenga Gompa. This gumba is 15 mins uphill from the lake. The gompa offers a 360-degree view of the area which is worth the 15min climb. Another special highlight of the lake is that you get to see the apple orchards and the mud houses of the Thini village which are truly beautiful. One can get a clear insight into the Mustang culture just from witnessing these magnificent sights. Quick information, it is believed that the Thini village overlooks the old salt trade route between Tibet and Nepal. So, a trip to this exotic place will not have you regretting it.