Although it is very little known, there are quite a number of natural hot water springs scattered around the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal. Mineralogists estimate of having at least 50 hot water springs in the land belt stretching between the Himalayan and mountain regions. These hot water springs are locally known as tatopani simply meaning 'hot water'.
A list of natural hot springs located in various parts of Nepal:
==>> Hotiyana in Sankhuwasabha, Koshi zone, Eastern Nepal.
==>> Syabrubesi and Chilime in Rasuwa, North of Kathmandu.
==>> Bhurung, Do Khola, Singha, Chhumrung and Dhadkharka in Myagdi district.
==>> Jomsom and Dhima in Mustang.
==>> Chame and La Ta in Manang district.
==>> Bhulbhule Khar in Tanahu district.
==>> Tapoban in Bajhang district.
==>> Dhanachauri (Luma) and Tila river in Jumla.
==>> Srikaar, Sina and Chamlaiya in Darchula.
==>> Riar, Saghu Khola, Sarai Khola in Middle development region of Nepal.
In Srinagar, Bhurung, Sanghu Khola, Syabrubesi and Chilime springs, the water temperature is found to be in the range of 42c to 73c.
In other springs listed above, natural hot water of up to 100c flows out. It is believed that taking a bath in these springs cures paralysis, rheumatism and other diseases relating to bone, joints, skin, etc. Local residents around these springs often celebrate festivals in which they take bath and drink the spring water rich in phosphorus and salt with the hope to cure their ailments and remain healthy.
The most famous hot springs in Nepal are at Tatopani, near the Friendship Bridge across the border of Nepal and China at the end of Kodari (Arniko) Highway and another one on the Annapurna Circuit. The hot water spring of Beni Bazar in Myagdi district which is about 244 miles (390 kilometers) west of Kathmandu is also quite well-known. Almost 60,000 people all over the country visit this spring that can hold up to 100 people at the height of 2,743 meters (9,050 feet). |
