There exist many serene lakes in the lap of the Himalayas that are still off the tourist radar. Surrounded by towering hills and visited mostly by the locals, these hidden lakes of North India are perfect for those in search of serenity and quietude.
Although it is not possible to reach all of them by road, there are treks that take you to these remote lakes. It is interesting to witness these lakes change their colours with varying hues of the sky, especially during sunrise and sunset. Admire the reflection of the sky, surrounding peaks, trees and everything else in the placid waters or just sit by the lakeside throwing pebbles and watching the ripples die out. Here's a list of hidden lakes in North India that have left me mesmerised, and will surely amaze you too!
Nako Lake
This high altitude lake is located at an elevation of 3662 metres in Hangrang Valley in Kinnaurdistrict, near Indo-China border. Nako is a small village settlement near the lake and serves as a stopover for travellers going to Spiti via Shimla. The lake is considered pious by villagers as it is believed that Guru Padmasambhava meditated near the lake, and his footprints are also marked on a rock here.
Start your day at Nako with a small trek to the mountain behind the lake. Climb the small hill behind the lake up to the chorten and you will get a beautiful bird's-eye view of the lake, the village and the surrounding peaks. During the day, roam around the village, visit the monastery and spend some time talking to the villagers. Spend the evening near the lake as it is magical—the sun setting over the snow-covered Himalayan peaks looks simply amazing!
Chandra Tal
In the serene surroundings of the towering snow-covered peaks and green pastures lies the breathtakingly beautiful Chandra Tal. It is located at an altitude of about 4300 metres in the Spiti. Drive through the magnificent route from Kaza to Kunzum Pass, and thereafter, to the lake. However, the journey to the lake from the pass is quite challenging, and hence, you need an expert to drive on these roads. Alternatively, there is a trek of around a kilometre to reach the lake. The best time to visit is early morning when the reflection of the snow-capped peaks in the placid lake water effortlessly casts a spell on you. Spend the night in the tents pitched in the lap of snow-covered Himalayas (literally), just a few kilometres from the lake. It might just turn out to be one of the most exciting experiences of your life.
Suraj Tal
Suraj Tal, located in Bhaga Valley, is the third highest lake in India and the 21st highest in the world. It is one of the most picturesque lakes I've ever seen. You can see it on the left as you drive on NH-21 from Keylong towards Ladakh. It lies just 3 km before the Baralacha Pass (4890 metres). It is fed by the glaciers originating in the pass. The road usually remains open from May to October, but the best time to visit is June when it is half frozen and looks stunning. You can also trek to the lake; the trekking route starts at Chandra Tal in Spiti Valley and reaches Suraj Tal via Topko Yongma and Topko Gongma.
Prashar Lake
The beautiful saucer-shaped blue-water lake lies in the lap of the snow-covered Dhauladhar ranges in Kullu Valley. A peculiar thing about the lake, located at a height of 2730 metres, is a little floating island that keeps moving and changing its position at regular intervals. Similar to most of the mountain lakes, it is also fed by rainwater and glacier. Monsoon is a good time to visit Prashar Lake, surrounded by green pastures and colourful flowers. If you wish to see some snow, visit during winters.
A legend has it that the lake was created by the Pandavas while returning after the battle, Mahabharata. Next to the lake is an old three-storied pagoda shaped temple with beautiful wood carvings and slate roof. Built in the 13th century, this shrine is dedicated to Rishi Prashar.
Tso Kar
Situated in the stunningly beautiful Rupshu Valley, Tso Kar is the smallest high altitude lake in the region. The lake is also referred to as the 'White Lake' due to the layers of salt that get deposited on its banks. The famous Tso Moriri Lake, India's highest brackish water lake, is around 50 km from here. You have to drive on a rough terrain to reach Tso Kar from Tso Moriri, and there is no habitation in between so keep yourself loaded with basic necessities. Due to the remoteness of the place, there are no accommodation options except for a few nomadic camps.
The lake is quite popular among wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. The surrounding marshes are inhabited by rare species of birds such as grebes, brown-headed gulls, strip geese, rust geese and terns. However, the main attraction is the black-necked crane that flies to Tso Kar to lay eggs. Kiang, Tibetan gazelles, Tibetan wolves, foxes and marmots can also be spotted in the adjoining areas of the lake.
Hanuman Tal and Bharat Tal
These are the two hidden lakes of the seven lakes that are collectively referred to as Sattal. These lakes are located at a distance of around 20 km from Nainital. Just before the main three lakes of Sattal—Ram Tal, Lakshman Tal and Sita Tal—a route descends towards a dense oak forest. Bharat Tal lies just at the beginning of this route while you need to walk into the forest to reach Hanuman Tal. Although these lakes remain dry during summers, in the winter season they are flocked by migratory birds. So if you are visiting Sattal during monsoons or winters, do not forget to explore a little further to see Hanuman Tal and Bharat Tal.
Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal, the lake of nine corners, is apparently the most beautiful lake in Nainital district of Uttarakhand. Embraced by the majestic Kumaon and lush greenery, the lake is situated at a height of 1220 metres and is fed by underwater spring. There are many options to stay near the lake and it's highly recommended to spend at least a night here. There are many activities that you can indulge in here, such as boating, kayaking, angling, swimming and horse riding. Hang gliding is also organised by some tour companies, and the flight offers a bird's-eye view of the lake and its surroundings. Besides, this place is home to a variety of Himalayan birds and colourful butterflies, and hence, there's high probability that you may get to witness some of them during your visit.
Deoria Tal
Located at an altitude of 2438 metres, Deoria Tal is a beautiful fresh water lake. The lake is known for its lush green surroundings with snow-covered mountains in the backdrop and therefore, is a great site for camping. While camping, you can indulge in star gazing at night and admiring the mesmerising sunrise in the morning. From here, you can even enjoy a panoramic view of Chaukhamba, Nilkantha, Bandarpunch, Kedar and Kalanag peaks, to name a few. The 2 km uphill trek to the lake starts at Sari village in Uttarakhand. Alternatively, you can even start the trek from Ukhimath, which is a comfortable 7 km trail.
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