India has a wealth of lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water. Many visitors visit the nation every season to enjoy its many waterways (rivers, lakes, oceans, and seas). Even though tourists flock to these spots in the summer to escape the heat, India is home to some breathtaking lakes at far higher elevations. While getting to these lakes may be difficult, the reward is worthwhile. Beautiful frozen lakes set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Listed below are the most famous high-altitude lakes in India:
1. Tso Lhamo
Tso Lhamo, situated in North Sikkim around 9 kilometers from Gurudongmar Lake, is the highest lake in India at an impressive height of 5,486 meters and the 14th highest altitude lake in the world. Chola Mu Lake (Tso Lhamo) is reached by traveling over the Donkiala Pass, which leads to the Tibetan border.
The atmosphere is dismal and gloomy, creating a feeling of being alone. While specific licenses from the Government of Sikkim are required, the location is ideal for ‘VROOMERS. October and November are prime times to launch your thunderbird toward Tso Lhamo.
Location: North Sikkim, near the Indo-China border.
Altitude: 5,330 meters (one of the highest lakes in the world).
Highlights:
- Surrounded by snow-clad peaks, the lake offers breathtaking views.
- Accessible only with special permits due to its proximity to the border.
Best Time to Visit: May to September (roads are blocked in winter due to snow).
How to Reach:
- By Air: Bagdogra Airport (220 km).
- By Road: Drive from Gangtok to Thangu, then proceed with a local guide.
- Permits: Obtain Inner Line Permit (ILP) from Gangtok.
Tips: High altitude may cause AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness); carry essentials like oxygen cylinders and consult a local guide.
2. Gurudongmar Lake
The Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim is one of India’s tallest lakes. This unfroze a sizable portion of the lake, allowing residents to access clean drinking water. Still frozen as of today are certain sections of the azure lake.
The reflection of the surrounding mountains in the still lake is a breathtaking sight. Not only that, but the lake itself is both a sacred and exciting destination.
Location: North Sikkim, close to Tso Lhamo Lake.
Altitude: 5,183 meters.
Highlights:
- Revered by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus.
- The lake remains partially frozen during winter, creating a magical ambiance.
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Bagdogra Airport (200 km).
- By Road: Drive from Gangtok to Lachen, followed by a 3-hour journey to the lake.
- Permits: ILP required for non-residents of Sikkim.
Tips: Dress in warm layers, and avoid sudden movements to adapt to the high altitude.
3. Suraj Tal
The villagers hold Suraj Tal, the lake in question, in the highest regard because of its religious importance. The Bhaga River, which eventually converges with the Chandra River to create Chandrabhaga, originates in this region due to melting glaciers. Visitors and photographers go to the lake in the early morning to see the sun rising over its surface.
Location: Lahaul-Spiti Valley, near Baralacha Pass.
Altitude: 4,890 meters.
Highlights:
- The source of the Bhaga River.
- Surrounded by rugged terrain, ideal for trekking and photography.
Best Time to Visit: June to October.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Bhuntar Airport, Kullu (250 km).
- By Road: Reach Baralacha Pass via Manali-Leh Highway; the lake is a short trek away.
Tips: The road to the pass is challenging; hire experienced drivers or guides.
4. Roopkund Lake
Roopkund, the third-highest lake in India at 5,029 meters in the Garhwal Himalaya in Uttarakhand, is one of the famous high-altitude lakes in India and is also known locally as the Skeleton Lake and the Mystery Lake.
Notwithstanding the difficulty, hikers from all over the globe have been flocking to this lake at the foot of Trishul Parbat. As the snow melts, visitors to Roopkund may see human bones accumulating at the lake’s bottom. There are rumors that the bones found here are those of a group of pilgrims who died on their way to the Nanda Devi temple in the 9th century.
Location: Chamoli district.
Altitude: 5,029 meters.
Highlights:
- Known as the “Skeleton Lake” due to ancient human skeletal remains found on its banks.
- A thrilling trek with picturesque meadows and snow-covered peaks.
Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (225 km to Lohajung, the trek base).
- By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station (217 km to Lohajung).
- By Road: Drive to Lohajung; the trek to the lake starts here.
Tips: This is a high-altitude trek; ensure you’re physically fit and acclimatized.
5. Chandra Tal
In the beautiful Spiti Valley, Chandra Tal is a destination to be noticed. As the moonlight bounces off the ethereal lake, it becomes even more beautiful. Because of this, camping and lake hikes are common pastimes in the area. Chandra Tal, at about 4,400 meters (approximately 14,100 feet), is encircled by the towering peaks of the Himalayas.
The crescent-shaped lake is also significant in Hindu mythology. Legend has it that Yudhisthira, the last surviving Pandava, was taken here by Lord Indra before he ascended to heaven in his human form. It has also said to be where the river Chandra begins before joining the Bhaga to create the larger river known as Chandrabhaga.
Location: Spiti Valley.
Altitude: 4,270 meters.
Highlights:
- Known as the “Moon Lake” due to its crescent shape.
- Surrounded by lush meadows, making it a popular camping site.
Best Time to Visit: June to September.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Bhuntar Airport, Kullu (185 km).
- By Road: Drive to Batal on the Manali-Kaza route; a short trek leads to the lake.
Tips: Bring camping gear and warm clothing as temperatures drop at night.
Spiti Valley Package: 6 Nights 7 Days Spiti Valley Trip Itinerary
6. Vasuki Tal
Vasuki Tal is the third-highest lake in the Garhwal Himalayas and the seventh-highest lake in India. It is located on the trails of one of the most difficult treks in the Garhwal Himalaya in Uttarakhand: the Kalindi Khal Trek, which goes from Badrinath to Gangotri through Nandanban and Gaumukh.
Since it is one of the Indian Himalayan region’s high-altitude lakes, it provides visitors with a stunning panorama of mountains like Bhagirathi, Shivlinga, Basuki, Chandraparbat, and Satopanth.
Location: Near Kedarnath.
Altitude: 4,135 meters.
Highlights:
- Crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks.
- Considered sacred by Hindus.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (260 km).
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (243 km).
- By Road: Drive to Gaurikund, trek to Kedarnath, and proceed to Vasuki Tal.
Tips: Combine this trek with a visit to Kedarnath Temple for a spiritual experience.
7. Bhrigu Lake
Located east of Rohtang Pass in Kullu, at an altitude of nearly 14,000 feet, is Bhrigu Lake. A favorite destination for hikers, this area is honored with the name of the great sage Maharshi Bhrigu.
There is a lengthy trip to the pond-like lake, where you will camp amid meadows and woodlands. The Maharshi is said to have meditated near Bhrigu Lake. Hence it never freezes in the winter, even if the surrounding mountains are blanketed with snow.
Location: Near Manali.
Altitude: 4,300 meters.
Highlights:
- Known for its changing colors depending on the season.
- Surrounded by alpine meadows, the trek is relatively easy for beginners.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Bhuntar Airport, Kullu (50 km).
- By Road: Drive to Gulaba, the starting point of the trek.
Tips: Carry enough water and snacks for the trek.
8. Pangong Tso
Pangong Tso is a brackish lake, it freezes over entirely every winter. From June till September, however, the proximity of Pangong Tso makes camping in Ladakh an intriguing and mystical experience. During the warmer months, you may also watch for various migrating birds, such as the Bar-headed geese and the Brahmini ducks.
Also, Pangong Tso has been used as a filming site for many Bollywood productions because of its pleasant atmosphere.
Location: Ladakh, extending to China.
Altitude: 4,350 meters.
Highlights:
- Famous for its vibrant blue waters that change colors with the sunlight.
- Gained global popularity after being featured in the movie 3 Idiots.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh (150 km).
- By Road: Drive from Leh via Chang La Pass; taxis and bikes are available.
Tips: Accommodation options are limited to eco-friendly camps near the lake.
Conclusion
Finally, India’s stunning high-altitude lakes provide an unforgettable and inspirational experience for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.
India’s high-altitude lakes are a great destination for anybody searching for a strenuous hike or a quiet respite from the chaos of the city. The stunning scenery of these Indian highland lakes is enough to motivate you to start making travel plans.
General Tips for Visiting High-Altitude Lakes:
- Acclimatize: Spend at least a day in a lower-altitude region before visiting high-altitude lakes.
- Essentials: Carry warm clothing, energy snacks, water bottles, and a first-aid kit.
- Permits: Check for permits required for restricted areas like Sikkim and Ladakh.
- Fitness: Some lakes require trekking; ensure physical readiness.
- Safety: Be cautious of symptoms of AMS and carry basic medicines.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are high-altitude lakes?
High-altitude lakes are water bodies located at elevations above 3,000 meters, often surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
2. Which is the highest lake in India?
Tso Lhamo Lake in Sikkim is the highest lake in India, situated at an elevation of around 5,330 meters.
3. Where is Pangong Lake located?
Pangong Lake is situated in Ladakh, and it is famous for its ever-changing blue hues and serene beauty.
4. Why is Gurudongmar Lake popular?
Gurudongmar Lake, located in Sikkim, is one of the highest lakes in the world and is revered as sacred by both Buddhists and Sikhs.
5. Which high-altitude lake is known for its skeletons?
Roopkund Lake in Uttarakhand is known as the “Skeleton Lake” due to the ancient human skeletons found around its banks.
6. What makes Chandra Tal Lake unique?
Chandra Tal Lake in Himachal Pradesh is shaped like a crescent moon and is surrounded by breathtaking alpine meadows.
7. Are high-altitude lakes safe to visit?
Yes, they are safe to visit with proper acclimatization and precautions for high-altitude sickness.
8. Which is the most famous lake in Ladakh?
Apart from Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri is another stunning lake in Ladakh, offering tranquil surroundings and unique wildlife.
9. What is the best time to visit high-altitude lakes in India?
The best time is during summer and early autumn (May to October) when the lakes are accessible and not frozen.
10. Are there any high-altitude lakes in Uttarakhand?
Yes, apart from Roopkund, Vasuki Tal and Hemkund Lake are popular high-altitude lakes in Uttarakhand.
11. Can you camp near high-altitude lakes?
Yes, many high-altitude lakes, like Chandra Tal, allow camping, offering an adventurous experience amidst nature.
12. Do high-altitude lakes require special permits?
Some lakes, like Gurudongmar and Tso Lhamo, require special permits due to their proximity to border areas.
