The Himalayas are mainly known to the world for being the highest mountain range. Most people recognize the Himalayas for their lofty peaks and even nine out of ten most towering peaks in the world are from this mountain range.
The mighty Mount Everest is one of the iconic peaks of the Himalayas which is sprawling across five countries- India, Bhutan, Nepal, China, and Pakistan. However, many people still do not know that these mighty mountains boast more than just unmatched heights to leave anyone in awe.
Did you know the Himalayas are home to mesmerizing lakes, which are an awe-inspiring amalgamation of rich cultural legacy and assorted landscapes? Nature lovers, photographers, and adventurous souls should know about the most surreal lakes located in the Himalayas. The exceptional appeal and enchanting ambiance have made these lakes dream-like destinations on Earth.
It is true mighty peaks of the Himalayas take most of the limelight, but these magnificent lakes also incorporate beauty and grandeur into the overall region. Each of these lakes tells the tale of unique stories and cultural significance to the world. These natural wonders have taken the charm and appeal of the high-altitude peaks to the next level. It is time to embark on a journey to explore the lesser-known yet spectacular lakes found in the Himalayas.
Glimpses of Heaven: Discover the Himalayas’ 10 Most Breathtaking Lakes
Although most hikers are familiar with glacial lakes in the Himalayas being a significant part of the mountain ranges, many travelers are not aware of their existence in the ecosystem. A lot of trekkers feel the journey remains incomplete without exploring an awe-inspiring Himalayan lake. Let us delve into the journey of the top 10 stunning lakes located in the highest mountain chain in the world.
1. Manasarovar Lake
When it comes to the list of the most incredible lakes in the Himalayas, Manasarovar Lake deserves to be there on the list. Nestled in Tibet (an autonomous region of China), the enchanting Manasarovar Lake is among the highest freshwater lakes on earth.
Perched at 4,590 meters in height, this water body sprawls across a vast area of around 320 square kilometers. This expansive lake offers surreal views of the snow-covered mountains in the backdrop.
Did you know Manasarovar Lake in Tibet is a sacred place for Hindus as well as Buddhists due to its deep religious significance? The lake witnesses a large number of pilgrims every year to cover their Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Embarking on a journey to Manasarovar Lake can be challenging, but the golden opportunity to witness the sacred spot and soak in the spiritual ambiance is worth the effort. It is a both rewarding and soul-satisfying experience to behold the beauty and magnificence of Manasarovar Lake.
2. Pangong Tso
The discussion on the most stunning lakes located in the Himalayas cannot be completed without mentioning Pangong Tso. Nestled at a height of 4,350 meters above sea level, Pangong Tso sprawls across India and Tibet.
An expansive 134 kilometers of this lake flows through the border between India and Tibet. Pangong Tso is dotted with lush grasslands and mighty mountain peaks and the whole scenery takes every traveler’s breath away. Did you know high grassland lake is the English translation of Pangong Tso?
The pristine waters of Pangong Tso keep changing colors based on the angle of the sun. That means the lake shows different colors at different times of the day. Whether the water’s color is light green, azure blue, or shades between the two, Pangong Tso leaves no stone unturned to leave the beholders in awe. The surreal landscape and heartwarming colors of the water pacify a traveler’s mind, body, and soul.
3. Gokyo Lakes
The list of the top 10 magnificent lakes in the Himalayas needs the mention Gokyo Lakes due to its captivating surroundings and immaculate waters. Perched on a high altitude of the Himalayas, Gokyo Lakes is a spectacular amalgamation of six surreal lakes. The Sagarmatha National Park in Nepal is home to Gokyo Lakes, which has already gained the title of the most elevated freshwater lake system in the world.
The magnificence of awe-inspiring turquoise waters leaves anyone in awe and open-mouthed. The dream-like beauty and heartwarming ambiance can only be perceived by beholding it in person. Nestled at an elevation of 4,700 to 5,000 meters, the Gokyo Lakes are sourced from melting glaciers.
These six mesmerizing lakes are part and parcel of the natural wonders of the region. Needless to say, a complete package of surreal views of mighty mountains and pristine lakes has made Gokyo Lakes a famous destination for trekkers. The trekking journey throughout this area offers heartwarming views of the lakes and the bordering Himalayan peaks, such as Mount Everest.
Adventurous souls can plan for an exploration of this region to get peace of mind and create some unforgettable memories for a lifetime.
Did you know the Gokyo Lakes have immense religious significance for Hindus as well as Buddhists? The sacred month of August witnesses pilgrims in large numbers to this place to take a dip in the auspicious waters. It is a great opportunity to pacify one’s mind, body, and soul.
Read also:Must-Visit Temples in the Himalayas
4. Yamdrok Lake
In short, Yamdrok Lake is one of the most beautiful treasures in the Himalayas. Perched at a height of 4,441 meters above sea level, Yamdrok Lake is one of the largest revered lakes in Tibet (autonomous region of China). Sprawling across 638 square kilometers of area, Yamdrok Lake is a visual treat for its awe-inspiring turquoise waters.
Did you know the shape of this sacred lake has similarities with a coral branch or a coiling scorpion? A beautiful combination of various inlets and bays has given Yamdrok Lake its exceptional appearance. The surrounding snow-covered mountains have given the region a dream-like feeling.
Another worth-noting fact about Yamdrok Lake is that its pristine waters are home to various fish species. Nonetheless, popular belief says that attacking or eating fish is a sin, so Tibetans do not catch or consume fish from Yamdrok Lake.
It testifies to the fact that the Tibetan people believe Yamdrok Lake to have immense spiritual significance. This surreal lake gets a large number of pilgrims, who visit the lake to seek blessings.
If you are a true admirer of the Himalayan region, then you should plan for visiting Yamdrok Lake. The picturesque magnificence and immense cultural heritage have made Yamdrok Lake a must-visit place not only in Tibet but also in entire Asia.
5. Gurudongmar Lake
Another beautiful lake in the Himalayas is nestled in the Indian state of Sikkim which is called Gurudongmar Lake. This incredible alpine lake is located at an elevation of 5,210 meters above sea level.
And this height has made Gurudongmar Lake among the highest lakes in the world. Sprawling across an area of around 290 acres, the spectacular Gurudongmar Lake is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and mesmerizing landscapes.
Did you know Gurudongmar Lake got its name from an 8th-century Buddhist master, Guru Padmasambhava? He was believed to pay a visit to Gurudongmar Lake.
It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava blessed the lake to remain unfrozen during the harshest months of winter so that inhabitants could survive at those times of the year. And miraculously, the Gurudongmar Lake partially stays unfrozen all year round.
And it is one of the greatest examples of how faith can do wonders. This extraordinary natural wonder of the sacred water body is a must-visit place in Sikkim as well as in the entire Asia.
6. Gosaikunda Lake
Gosaikunda Lake is perched at the stunning Langtang National Park in Nepal. Located at an altitude of 4,380 meters above sea level, this alpine freshwater lake flows through an area of approximately 34 acres.
A breathtaking amalgamation of snow-capped mountains and surreal scenery has made Gosaikunda Lake one of the most attractive sites for tourists in Nepal. Moreover, it is an ideal destination for trekkers as well as pilgrims.
In addition, the lush valleys have taken the beauty and magnificence of the entire area to the next level, so Gosaikunda Lake can also be considered a photographer’s paradise.
Trekking to the surreal Gosaikunda Lake ensures a magnificent amalgamation of natural wonders, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and incredible cultural interactions. Moreover, trekkers also get to explore the awe-inspiring flora and fauna in the region.
7. Tilicho Lake
When it comes to the most wonderful lakes in the Himalayas, Tilicho Lake in Nepal makes a beautiful appearance. The Annapurna range of the Nepalese Himalayas is the exact location of this enchanting glacial lake.
Nestled at a height of 4,920 meters above sea level, the picturesque Tilicho Lake is considered one of the most elevated lakes in the globe. The 1.2 kilometers of the spacious lake is famous for its sparkling turquoise waters that reflect the breathtaking snow-covered peaks in the surrounding.
Reaching Tilicho Lake is an adventure in itself due to the challenging trekking through the famous Annapurna Circuit route. And a detour enables trekkers to experience the surreal magnificence of Tilicho Lake.
Moreover, adventurous souls also get a golden opportunity to explore rocky terrains, rich flora and fauna, and high-altitude passes. A successful trek ensures heartwarming views, peace of mind, and a sense of fulfillment in exploring one of the highest lakes in the world.
8. Phoksundo Lake
Nestled in the Shey Phoksundo National Park in Nepal, Phoksundo Lake is a picturesque destination for adventurous souls. This splendid alpine freshwater lake is perched on an elevation of 3,611 meters above sea level.
A beautiful blend of stunning turquoise water and breathtaking surroundings has made Phoksundo Lake a paradise for nature lovers. Being the deepest lake in the country, Phoksundo Lake sprawls across 1.8 kilometers in width with its incredible charm and astounding appeal.
Travelers, who would like to witness the magnificent Phoksundo Lake, can opt for the Phoksundo Lake Trek, which is less challenging as compared to Lower Dolpo Trek. Trekkers can expect to explore picture-perfect landscapes, enchanting villages, verdant forests, and rich flora and fauna on their journey to the Shey Phoksundo National Park.
9. Tso Moriri
Perched on the Changthang Plateau of Ladakh (Indian region), Tso Moriri is a breathtaking high-altitude lake with a tranquil ambiance to pacify the mind, body, and soul of travelers. Located at an altitude of 4,522 meters above sea level, Tso Moriri flows across a wide area of around 19 kilometers in length as well as 7 kilometers in width.
The surreal amalgamation of pristine waters, magnificent hills, and snow-covered peaks has made Tso Moriri an enchanting destination to spend some quality time with nature. You can reach this breathtaking lake via road by starting your journey from Leh, which is the awe-inspiring capital of Ladakh.
A mesmerizing journey to Tso Moriri ensures an exploration of the expansive and rocky terrains of the area for enthusiastic travelers. Moreover, it will be a golden opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to spot endangered Tibetan antelope, blue sheep, and marmots.
The surrounding area of Tso Moriri is called the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, which is a protected wetland reserve. This protected area plays a crucial role in safeguarding the unique species of this region as well as the overall ecosystem.
10. Chandra Taal
Fondly called the “Lake of the Moon”, Chandra Taal is nestled in the Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh. This high-altitude lake is perched at a height of 4,300 meters above sea level. This captivating lake was created after melting glaciers, and it can only be witnessed during summer, usually from May to October.
Chandra Taal is surrounded by a picture-perfect and serene ambiance, which entices nature lovers and adventurous souls from far and wide. Trekkers start their journey of the Chandra Taal Trek from Batal or Kunzum Pass. It ensures extraordinary landscapes for trekkers so that they can have a unique experience for a lifetime.
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Discovering picturesque mountains and verdant meadows offers a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers. Trekking to this crescent-shaped lake lets adventurers explore a variety of native wildlife species, such as Himalayan blue sheep, snow leopards, and marmots.
The top 10 spectacular lakes in the Himalayas are worth exploring even at least once in a lifetime. The beauty, magnificence, environment, and flora & fauna make up a complete package of a memorable trip.
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