9 lakes to explore in Uttarakhand in summer

May 14, 2024

By: Ayush Mehrotra

Naini Lake

Naini Lake is one of the most famous lakes in Uttarakhand, located in the heart of the town of Nainital. Surrounded by lush green hills, this pear-shaped lake offers boating opportunities, including paddleboats, rowboats, and yachts. Enjoy a stroll along the lakeside promenade called the Mall Road and savour the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

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Bhimtal Lake

Bhimtal, situated near Nainital, is another beautiful lake known for its serene ambience. It is the largest lake in the Nainital district and offers various water sports activities such as boating, kayaking, and fishing. You can also visit the Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple located on the island within the lake.

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Sattal

Sattal, which translates to "Seven Lakes," is a group of interconnected freshwater lakes located near Bhimtal. Surrounded by dense forests and hills, Sattal offers a tranquil environment for nature lovers. You can explore the area on nature walks, and birdwatching trails, and enjoy boating on the lakes.

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Naukuchiatal

Naukuchiatal, or the "Lake of Nine Corners," is placed in lush greenery and is known for its pristine beauty. It is the deepest lake in the Nainital region and offers opportunities for boating, paragliding, and angling. The scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for picnics and relaxation.

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Roopkund Lake

Also known as the Skeleton Lake, it is a high-altitude glacial lake located in the Himalayas. While it may not be suitable for casual exploration due to its challenging trekking trails, Roopkund is famous for its mysterious skeletons dating back to the 9th century. The trek to Roopkund offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows.

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Kedar Tal

Situated at an altitude of about 4,750 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is a popular trekking destination for adventure enthusiasts seeking a challenging yet rewarding experience. Surrounded by snow-clad peaks and pristine wilderness, Kedar Tal offers a surreal and unforgettable experience for trekkers.

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Deoria Tal

Located in dense forests and lush greenery in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Situated at an altitude of around 2,438 meters, it offers stunning reflections of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including Chaukhamba and Kedar Range. The lake is accessible via a trek from the village of Sari, and camping by the lakeside is a popular activity.

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Satopanth Lake

Satopanth Lake is a sacred glacial lake located at an altitude of around 4,600 meters in the Gangotri region of Uttarakhand. It is named after the Hindu trinity, Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva), and is considered highly auspicious by devotees. The trek to Satopanth Lake is challenging and requires proper preparation, but the awe-inspiring beauty of the lake and its surroundings make it a rewarding experience for trekkers.

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Hemkund Lake

Also known as Lokpal Lake, is a pristine glacial lake situated at an altitude of around 4,329 meters in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is surrounded by snow-clad peaks and lush meadows dotted with colourful flowers during the summer months. Hemkund Sahib, a revered Sikh shrine, is located on the banks of the lake, attracting pilgrims and trekkers from around the world.

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