The creator of this mystical universe has bestowed India with all grace and enigma to make it one of the most appealing countries brimming with natural splendor. Incredible indeed! From the highest peak of mountains to the waves of the sea everywhere serenity is found untainted. Among these plethora of grandeurs, Himalaya stands as a wonderful work of art of nature deity. Painted with pristine white snow, deep green forest and chocolate coloured cliffs, this natural wonder has attracted globetrotters with magnetic force. One such surprising natural splendor is the high altitude lakes which are fed by the melting snow and stand apart for reflecting blue-white colour of the sky. Crystal clear and devoid of chemical affect, these lakes are the best places in the world to relax when one feels exhausted during day long trekking. Let’s have a look at the best Himalayan lakes one should have a glimpse during their voyage to this charismatic land:
Tso Lhamo Lake Located at a distance of around 9 km from the Gurudongmar Lake, Tso Lhamo is the pride of North Sikkim and found at an elevation of 5,486 m above the sea level. The highest lake in India and 14th high altitude lake in the world, this amazing waterbody is bestowed with a startling natural ambiance to wait and feel the serenity imbibed in its atmosphere. The lake is also known as Chola Mu and has to be reached by via Donikala Pass that leads to the Tibetan Border. For mountain biking this is the one of the most ideal places in the country, though one needs to have permits from Government of Sikkim for that.
Nagin Lake Described as the jewel in the crown of Kashmir, Nagin Lake is a crystal clear waterbody in Srinagar. Located at the base of Zabarwan Hills, the lake is enclosed by the Shankaracharya hill and Hari Parbat and constitutes a significant part of Dal Lake. The lake is deeper than the Dal and looks clearer and quaint. An ideal place for swimming or taking a dip into it, this lake has there are fiberglass sailing boats for going on a boat ride. The tourists with spirited mind can try water skiing as well. Main attraction of the lake is its scenic environment what tempts the solitude lovers and tourists went out for leisure travelling.
Pangong Tso Lake One of the most serene high altitude lakes in India poured with brackish water and surrounded by lofty mountain ranges, Pangong Tso is a 134 km long waterbody that extends from India to Tibet at a height of about 4,350m. A perfect getaway for city escapists, the lake is the home to elusive species of migratory birds and the vicinity is ideal to be one of the most exotic spots for camping in Ladakh. During winter season the lake water turns completely frozen. Thus June to September is considered to be the perfect time to visit this park. Those who are excited to click a few best images of birds should visit this spot in summer when birds like the Brahmini ducks and Bar-headed goose can be easily spotted on the banks of the lake.
Roopkund Lake Nothing can beat the mystery of this exotic Himalayan Lake popularly known as the ‘skeleton lake’. A picture perfect location on the lap of gigantic Trishul peak in Uttarakhand state of India, this lake has to be reached by a magnificent trek named Roopkund Trek. A shallow lake with a very minimal depth, this enigmatic spot attracts attention for the skeletons found at the bottom of the lake which can be seen by the tourists very easily when snow starts melting. The lake is enclosed by rocky glaciers and snowcapped mountains what make it a perfect setting to click some unbeatable mountain pics.
Sela Lake A fascinating waterbody in the Eastern Himalaya of India, Sela Lake is located in the north-eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. Situated at a close distance from Sella Pass, the only mountain pass connecting the Buddhist district of Tawang to the rest of Arunachal Pradesh and India, this is the best of 101 lakes found in Sella Pass. Presenting an invigorating sight for a heavenly experience the lake is surrounded by chocolate coloured mountains on which the coating of pristine snow looks like icing on the cake. In winter season the water turns mostly frozen which is also a delightful sight to behold.
Sumendu Lake: If you have been knowing Darjeeling for tea gardens only, then you have missed knowing the most important trait of this earthly paradise. Sumendu Lake in Mirik town is a gem from its treasure trove which is fed by the perennial streams. 49 km from Darjeeling and 52 km from Siliguri, this lake is around 1.2 km in length and tempts visitors to walk across the zig-zag footwalk built around it. The lake is surrounded by garden on one side and pine trees on the other which are again connected by a footbridge known as Indreni Pull. The visitors on leisure tour can enjoy the boat ride available on the lake. Walking across the lake witnessing the view of Kanchenjunga on far horizon generate a quixotic feel.
Tsongmo Lake Located at a distance of only 40 km from the capital of the state Gangtok, Tsongmo Lake is found on the Gangtok-Nathula Highway and known to be one of the most alluring lakes in Indian Himalaya. An ethereally beautiful body of water at an altitude of 12400 ft above the sea level, this lake presents different setting according to the season. The lake is fed by the melting snow of the enclosing mountains which add to the grandeur of its placid setting as well. The lake remains frozen in winter and during late spring looks explicitly beautiful for the blooming wild flowers. Spending few hours by this lake side in the evening is worth it. However for the passionate outsiders, the lake vicinity brings excellent opportunity of mule riding or riding on colourfully decorated yaks. The lake is also a consecrated spot for the Sikkemese faith healers who assemble here on the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima.
Gurudongmar Lake The second highest lake in India located to the north-east of Kanchenjungha Range of mountains Gurudongmar ranks high for its religious significance. A fresh water lake at an elevation of 5243 m in North Sikkim remains almost completely frozen during the winter months of November to mid May. The lake contains water that resembles the colour of milk and during sunny days looks extremely breathtaking for reflecting the blue colour of the sky. The lake is also one of the source streams of the Teesta River. It is believed that when Guru Nanak Ji visited the place the local residents reported him of not having adequate source of water. Listening to them, the great soul broke the upper layer of ice with his stick and blessed that the part would never get frozen even in extreme winters. Devotees believe that the water of this lake can cure many incurable diseases. That is why they collect water of this lake in bottles whenever they visit the place.
Kedar Tal Lake A picturesque body of water reflecting the closest mountain range immaculately Kedar Tal Lake is a fascinating lake in the Garhwal Himalaya. Fringed by the Thalay Sagar and Bhrigupanth Peak, the lake presents an enchanting natural view to capture in digital lens. During a leisure walk in the evening one can witness the reflection of Thalay Sagar Peak in its still water. The lake is situated at a height of 4,750 m above the sea level and serves as a source of Kedar Ganga, a tributary of Bhagirathi. Myth says that the lake is a gift from Shiva to deity Ganga. Water in this lake is emerald green and looks enchantingly beautiful. The lake can be reached through trekking towards Kedartal from Gangotri which is around 17km long and known to be one of the most challenging yet outstanding lake treks in India.
Satopanth Lake One of the most sacred lakes in Indian Himalaya, Satopanath is located at a height of 4600 m above the sea level in Uttarakhand state of India. The lake is associated with several myths one of which is very significant. It is believed that on an auspicious day, the trio Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva take dip in this holy lake. However, the lake vicinity is also inhabited by few endemic species of birds which are not found in other parts of the world. Satopanath Lake also constitutes an important part of Swargarohini Yatra which can be reached by Satopanth tal trek. This is the route which was taken by the Pandavas to reach haven and Yudhisthira was received by the heavenly chariot at Satopanath Lake only.
The number of lakes found in Indian Himalaya is uncountable and it is tough to judge which one is the best to see. Each one of these lakes has something unique to offer and many of them are associated with firm religious beliefs. However, the magnetic views surrounding these lakes, which are complemented by many endemic species of plants and animals, draw unqualified attention of the visitors. Lakes like Sattal in Nainital district attract attention for constituting seven interconnected lakes, or the lake Rewalsar in Mandi, Himachal for its dark water and floating islands. So, whether one is a pious soul or an adventure freak lakes in Himalaya can fulfill the desire of tourists of each type impeccably.
