Top 7 most beautiful lakes in Uttarakhand: Exploring the Scenic Beauty of the Himalayas
Table of Contents
Introduction
Uttarakhand, also known as the “Land of Gods,” is home to some of the most stunning lakes in India. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, these lakes offer breathtaking views, adventure activities, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or a photography enthusiast, the lakes in Uttarakhand have something for everyone.
1. Naini Lake (Nainital) – The Jewel of Uttarakhand
Naini Lake, also known as Nainital Lake, is one of the most famous and beautiful lakes in Uttarakhand. Nestled in the heart of Nainital, this kidney-shaped, freshwater lake is surrounded by lush green hills, making it a perfect destination for tourists. Whether you enjoy boating, photography, or just a peaceful walk, Naini Lake offers a breathtaking experience.
Also Read: Top 5 Places in Nainital
Best Time to Visit Naini Lake
March to June, September to November
| By Road: | Well-connected to Delhi (300 km) and major Uttarakhand cities via buses and taxis. |
| By Train: | The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (34 km), with taxis available to Nainital. |
| By Air: | The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (70 km), with regular flights from Delhi. |
Nearby Attractions of Naini Lake
- Naina Devi Temple: A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi.
- Snow View Point: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Mall Road: A shopping street alongside the lake with cafes and souvenir shops.
- Tiffin Top: A short trek leading to a spectacular viewpoint of Nainital.
2. Bhimtal Lake – The Island Lake
Bhimtal Lake, larger than Naini Lake, is one of the most stunning lakes in Uttarakhand. Located in the quaint town of Bhimtal, this serene lake is famous for its small island in the center, which houses an aquarium. Surrounded by lush green hills and offering a peaceful ambiance, Bhimtal Lake is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit Bhimtal Lake
March to June, September to November
| By Road: | Bhimtal is well-connected to Nainital (22 km) and Delhi (300 km) via buses and taxis. |
| By Train: | The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (21 km), from where taxis and buses are available. |
| By Air: | The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (55 km), with flights from Delhi. |
Nearby Attractions of Bhimtal Lake
- Bhimtal Aquarium: Located on the island, this aquarium showcases rare and colorful fish species.
- Hidimba Parvat & Vankhandi Ashram: A serene trekking spot near the lake.
- Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple: A historic Shiva temple believed to be from the Mahabharata era.
- Nal Damyanti Tal: A small, sacred lake near Bhimtal known for its mythological significance.
Also Read : Top 13 most famous Valley of Uttarakhand: An Ideal Destination for Nature Lovers
3. Sattal Lake – The Lake of Seven Colors
Sattal Lake, located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is a mesmerizing group of seven interconnected freshwater lakes, surrounded by dense oak and pine forests. Known as the “Lake of Seven Colors,” Sattal is famous for its pristine beauty, rich biodiversity, and birdwatching opportunities. Unlike the more commercialized lakes in Uttarakhand, Sattal remains untouched and offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Best Time to Visit of Sattal Lake
October to June
| By Road: | Well-connected to Nainital (22 km), Bhimtal (7 km), and Delhi (300 km) via buses and taxis. |
| By Train: | The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (26 km), from where taxis are available |
| By Air: | The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (60 km), with regular flights from Delhi. |
Nearby Attractions of Sattal Lake
- Ghorakhal Temple: A famous Golu Devta Temple, known for its thousands of bells.
- Subhash Dhara: A natural freshwater spring amidst the forests.
- Bhimtal Lake: A larger lake with an island aquarium, just 7 km from Sattal.
- Snow View Point (Nainital): A scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
4. Naukuchiatal Lake – The Nine-Cornered Lake
Naukuchiatal Lake, meaning “the lake of nine corners,” is a serene and picturesque lake located in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region. Surrounded by lush green hills and dense forests, this lake is famous for its tranquil waters, adventure activities, and mythological significance. It is believed that if a person manages to see all nine corners of the lake at once, they will attain Nirvana (salvation).
Unlike Naini Lake and Bhimtal Lake, Naukuchiatal is less crowded, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Best Time to Visit of Naukuchiatal Lake
March to June, September to November
| By Road: | Well-connected to Delhi (320 km), Nainital (26 km), and Kathgodam (25 km) via buses and taxis. |
| By Train: | The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (25 km), with taxis available. |
| By Air: | The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (65 km), with regular flights from Delhi. |
Nearby Attractions of Naukuchiatal Lake
- Brahma Temple: One of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in India.
- Jungliagaon: A quiet nature retreat, ideal for camping and birdwatching.
- Bhimtal Lake: A scenic lake just 4 km away, known for its island aquarium.
- Sattal Lake: A group of seven interconnected lakes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
5. Roopkund Lake – The Mysterious Skeleton Lake
Roopkund Lake, sometimes referred to as the “Skeleton Lake,” is one of Uttarakhand, India’s most fascinating and enigmatic lakes. Situated at a staggering altitude of 5,029 meters (16,499 feet) in the Chamoli district, this high-altitude glacial lake is famous for the hundreds of ancient human skeletons found at its bottom.
Best Time to Visit Roopkund Lake
May to October
| By Road: | Reach Lohajung (320 km from Rishikesh) via Rishikesh–Haridwar–Kathgodam route. |
| By Train: | Kathgodam Railway Station (221 km from Lohajung) is the nearest railhead. |
| By Air: | Pantnagar Airport (250 km from Lohajung) is the closest airport, with taxis available. |
Nearby Attractions of Roopkund Lake
- Trishul & Nanda Ghunti Peaks: Majestic Himalayan peaks offering stunning views.
- Ali Bugyal & Bedni Bugyal: Vast, scenic alpine meadows, ideal for nature lovers.
- Nanda Devi Temple: A sacred temple dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, linked to local myths.
- Junargali Pass: A high-altitude mountain pass near Roopkund, offering breathtaking panoramas.
6. Hemkund Lake – The Sacred Glacial Lake
Hemkund Lake, located at an astonishing altitude of 4,632 meters (15,197 feet) in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites and a trekkers’ paradise. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and a pristine environment, making it a popular destination for spiritual seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Hemkund is known for its striking clear blue waters and spiritual significance, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Best Time to Visit Hemkund Lake
June to September
| By Road: | The nearest accessible town is Govindghat, which is well-connected to Haridwar (295 km), Rishikesh (273 km), and Dehradun (314 km) by road. From Govindghat, you can take the trek to Hemkund Lake. |
| By Train: | The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, which is well-connected to major cities in India. |
| By Air: | The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 313 km from Govindghat. |
Nearby Attractions
- 🏞 Valley of Flowers National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site located nearby, famous for its diverse flora, especially wildflowers.
- Badrinath Temple: A famous Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located 25 km from Govindghat.
- Joshimath: A small hill station and the gateway to several important pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand.
7. Dodital Lake – The Birthplace of Lord Ganesha
Nestled in the serene Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Dodital Lake is a high-altitude freshwater lake that has captured the imagination of trekkers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers alike. Situated at an altitude of 3,302 meters (10,864 feet), Dodital is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and religious significance. Surrounded by dense oak, pine forests, and the majestic Himalayan peaks, this picturesque lake is an ideal destination for those seeking peace, adventure, and spirituality.
Best Time to Visit Dodital Lake
April to June, September to November
| By Road: | The trek starts from Sari Village, which is accessible from Uttarkashi (around 22 km). You can reach Uttarkashi by bus or private vehicle from Dehradun (175 km) or Haridwar (205 km). |
| By Train: | The nearest railway station is Uttarkashi, with Haridwar or Rishikesh being the most convenient railway stations. |
| By Air: | The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 175 km from Uttarkashi. |
| By Trek: | The 4-5 day trek starts from Sari Village and takes you to Dodital Lake. |
Nearby Attractions of Dodital Lake
- Uttarkashi: The town of Uttarkashi is the nearest settlement, known for its temples, including the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
- Gangotri Glacier: A significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and the origin of the River Ganges.
- Yamunotri Temple: Another important pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Yamuna, located nearby.
- Darwa Top: An additional high-altitude point that can be trekked to for panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Conclusion
The lakes in Uttarakhand offer a mix of adventure, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting trekking experience, these lakes are worth exploring.
FAQ’s About of Most Beautiful lakes in Uttarakhand
1. What is the best time to visit the lakes in Uttarakhand?
The best time to visit Uttarakhand’s lakes is from March to June and from September to November. The weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy the natural beauty without the winter chill.
2. Are the lakes in Uttarakhand suitable for boating?
Yes, many lakes in Uttarakhand, such as Naini Lake, Bhimtal, and Naukuchiatal, offer boating facilities. These lakes provide a serene experience with breathtaking views.
3. Is it safe to trek to Roopkund Lake?
Roopkund Lake is located at a high altitude, and the trek is challenging, so it’s advisable to go with a professional guide. Proper preparation and physical fitness are essential for this trek.
4. Can I do paragliding at Naukuchiatal Lake?
Yes, Naukuchiatal is a popular destination for paragliding. The lake’s beautiful surroundings and the thrill of flying make it an ideal spot for adventure seekers.
5. Are there any accommodation options near the lakes in Uttarakhand?
Yes, most lakes in Uttarakhand have nearby hotels, guesthouses, and resorts offering various accommodation options. For more remote lakes like Roopkund or Hemkund, trekkers can opt for campsites or homestays.
