Uttarakhand is home to nature’s best natural resources, and lakes are one of them. There are several serene and Famous lakes in Uttarakhand. Some are frozen, few are on top of the mountains where you would have to trek up a little, and few lakes are easily accessible. Meadows and lush greenery beautifully surround these lakes. One cannot take one’s eyes off Uttarakhand’s green emerald lakes. At high altitudes, glacial lakes are common for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Lakes become a great place to camp when trekking, providing a serene and peaceful environment. Let’s dive deep into some of the famous lakes of Uttarakhand.
1. Naini Lake
Naini Lake is probably one of the most famous lakes, not just in the Uttarakhand but also throughout the entire country. Naini Lake is located in the famous hill station Nainital. The serene green emerald water shines bright and is crystal clear. The lake is eye-shaped, thus the name Naini. Here, you can boat around the lake and enjoy the beautiful sight of the city of Nainital. The lake is spread over two miles at an altitude of 2000m.
2.Deoria Tal
This lake has a major spiritual significance. It is believed that the local deities bathed here. To reach Deotria tal one has to travel an hour and trek up from Sari village on the Ukimath- Chopta road. It is a very popular lake amongst the trekkers, and the way to trek is considered easy here. The Tal is beautifully surrounded by lush forests and meadows. It is one of the best spots to see the nearby peaks like Chaukhamba, Nikantha, Kedar range, and Kalang.
3. Roopkund
Roopkund, also called the “mystery lake” of Uttarakhand, is present in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand. It is a high-altitude glacial lake that remains frozen for most part of the year, but in summer, it melts a bit, and many history enthusiasts visit the place to see the mystery behind the human skeleton found deep in the lake. Some of the giant human skeletons can be seen here.
4. Sattal Lake
Sattal is a cluster of seven lakes known as Panna or Garud Tal, Hanuman Tal, Ram Tal, Sita Tal, Laxman Tal, Naldamyanti Tal, and Sukha or Bharat Tal. Sattal is an ideal destination for bird watching as many migratory birds are there. A great place for boating, and there are cool camping grounds nearby to enhance your stay.
5. Bhimtal Lake
Named after Mahabharat’s Bheema, the Bhimtal Lake is another gem situated in the Nainital District of Uttrakhand. It is located at an altitude of 1370 m above sea level. It is believed that lord Bheema made this lake. It is a major tourist attraction in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Here, activities like boating and kayaking can be done. Cycling and simple strolling can be done while admiring the picturesque lake.
6. Dodital Lake
Located in the Uttrakashi district of the Garhwal region, Dodital is often called”dhudital,” meaning Ganesha ka tal or Lake of Ganesha. As per Hindu mythology, it is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ganesha, and that Dodital is his abode. Here, a beautiful temple is located at one corner of the lake, which is dedicated to the lord Ganesha.
7. Kedar Tal
Located in the Uttarkashi District, Kedar Tal is a glacial lake situated at an altitude of 4912 mThe Kedar Tal is formed by the melting of the Kedar glacier. The lake is one of the highest lakes in Uttrakhand and is also known as Shiva’s Lake. The lake gives birth to the Kedar-Ganga river, which is an important tributary of the Bhagirithi river.
8. Juda ka Talab
Another famous lake of Uttrakhand which is located in the Uttrakashi district of the Garhwal Region. The Juda ka Talab is situated at an altitude of 2700 m above sea level. Surrounded by dense forest, the talab is a serene sight to behold. It also acts as a camping site for people trekking to the Kedarkantha summit.
9. Tehri Lake
Situated at an altitude of 1700m. Tehri Lake is an artificial dam reservoir. It’s an ideal destination for people looking to connect with nature and get involved in the various water sports activities available there. It’s ideal for a weekend getaway as it’s closer to cities like Dehradun, Delhi, and Punjab.
10. Deo Tal
Famously known as the “lake of the gods”. The Deo Tal is a sacred holy lake as it is believed that the Mythical Saraswati River originated from here. It is situated about 3 km from the Mana Pass Zero point. It remains frozen throughout the year except for September. The lake is surrounded by icy peaks, making it surroundings vibrant in a blue, clear sky.
11. Chenab Lake
It is situated in an untouched village named Dang village in Joshimath. This village is the last village of Joshimath. The small, serene, unexplored Chenab Lake still attracts many tourists due to its serene beauty.
12. Hemkund Lake
Located in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand, also known as the” lake of snow,” It is one of the most sacred lakes in Uttarakhand. It is situated next to the Hemkund Sahib shrine and is a major pilgrimage place for the Sikh community. Hemund Lake is a glacial lake that remains frozen for most of the year.
13. Naukuchiatal Lake
Naukuchiatal Lake gets its name from nine corners also called the” lake of nine corners”. It’s situated in Nainital district and is the deepest lake in the Nainital region. It’s a picturesque lake known for its peaceful and quaint location. Ideal for boating, kayaking and wildlife watching.
14. Bedni Kund
A small crystal clear lake also known as Vaitarani, It is part of the alpine meadows of Bedni Bugyal. It is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is located at 11004 feet above sea level. It is a glacial lake. It is a sacred Hindu site dedicated to the lord Shiva. From here you can spot peaks like Trishool and Nanda Ghunti.
15. Gaurikund lake
A perfect blend of spirituality and adventure. The Gaurikund Lake is situated at the base of Adi Kailash. Vehicles are parked at the Jolinkong Base Camp, from there is it 2 kms trek to Gauri kund. Bathing is not allowed in the sacred water of the Gaurikund lake.
Conclusion: Famous lakes in Uttarakhand
Lakes are the natural wonders found in Uttarakhand. They have spiritual, mythological, and religious significance. These serene lakes have something to offer for every kind of traveler, from adventure to spiritual experiences. One can enjoy the natural wonders in Uttarakhand. Boating and kayaking to camping and bird watching are a few activities that can be done while you’re on these destinations. Visiting these lakes provides one with breathtaking views of the nearby mountains and peaks and allows one to learn about the spiritual significance of these lakes. For more such articles follow uttarakhandmagazine.com
