Situated in the laps of Himalayas, Himachal or “the land of snow” is a stunningly perfect destination for all those who are looking for an escape from their monotonous and jading lives. Seen as a famous touristy hill station, Himachal has got everything for a solo traveler or group of nomads.
At this destination, you can experience views right from the majestic mountains, thrilling adventure sites, to its splendid rivers and lakes. Not only this, but the place also has enchanting lake towns and secluded Himalayan lakes making Himachal a perfect paradise for all seasons and all reasons.
Here is a list of some of the most charming lakes in Himachal offering you a lifetime experience.
1. Chandratal Lake, Lahaul and Spiti District
Chandratal Lake is one of the most aesthetic lakes in Himachal Pradesh. This lake is also popular as camper and trekker’s paradise. This crescent-shaped lake (hence the name ‘Chandra Tal’) is located at an altitude of 4300 meters. It lies beneath the Samudra Tapu plateau.
The lake is also famous for its mythological importance. Therefore, it attracts a large number of Hindu devotees to visit this lake. Chandratal lake offering a captivating view by changing its colour, the crystal clear water of the lake looks amazing with the sun’s light reflecting on it.
2. Kareri Lake, Kangra
Kareri or Kumarwah is a shallow, freshwater lake located at an altitude of 2,934 meters above the sea level. It is situated to the south of Dhauladar range. This picturesque place offers a perfect base camp to all those adventure seekers far in the Dhauladars.
One can reach the Kareri Lake through Ghera village which is the nearest road head. Interestingly, the snow melting from the Dhauladar range provide water in the lake which makes the visibility of the water very high. You can enjoy by dense conifers and colourful perennial flowers surrounding the lake. If you want to enjoy the unforgettable view of frozen lake, plan your travel during winter. This lake remains frozen during winters and looks very appealing.
3. Rewalsar Lake, Mandi District
Famous by the name of Tso Pema Lotus Lake, Rewalsar Lake is located almost 23 kilometers to the south of Mandi. This is a square-shaped lake which lies at an elevation of 1,360 meters above the sea level.
This famous tourist spot is particularly famous for its floating island of reeds. It is belief to be the home to the spirit of Guru Padmasambhava. Rewalsar Lake has a shoreline of 735 kilometers and is immensely beautiful as one can witness the perfect amalgamation of water, woodlands and hills here.
4. Dhankar Lake, Spiti
Situated at a distance 5 km from the majestic Dhankar gompa which is built on the dangerous hill lies the Dhankar Lake. Counted in the list of one of the highest lakes in Himachal Pradesh, this lake positioned at a height of more than 13000 ft.
Encircled with desolated mountains, the lake overlooks the magical confluence of two major rivers of Himachal, Spiti and Pin. Dhankar Lake is perfect for all those adventures seeking trekkers who not only want some thrill but also tranquility. The lake gives a mesmerizing view when the reflection of color changing sky falls on the crystal-like lake, leaving the visitors spellbound.
5. Parashar Lake, Mandi District
Parashar Lake is situated about 50 kilometers north of Mandi at a height of 2730 metre above the sea level. Due to winter, this lake is Covered with thick ice and dazzling for the rest of the year, the lake is one of the most offbeat places in Himachal.
The lake also holds the religious importance as it lies along with the three-storied pagoda-like temple. It was built in the thirteenth century. Holding a saintly position, the lake and temple both are devoted to the sage Parashar. Travelers can trek down to the Parashar Lake via Baggi village where they can also camp at the Kamru Valley.
6. Manimahesh Lake, Chamba
Manimahesh lake is situated in the Bharmour subdivision of Chamba. It is considered as holy abode of Lord Shiva. Manimahesh which means ‘The jewels of Lord Shiva’. As a result, it attracts hundreds of pilgrims every year to attend the famous Manimahesh Yatra. People organize a Yatra in August and September each year.
The Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas surrounds the lake and increases its popularity. It lies in the proximity of Manimahesh Kailas Parbat. This saucer-shaped lake has two parts, the larger part is Shiv Katori and the lower is famous by the name of Gauri Kund.
7. Brighu Lake, Kullu
For all those seeking break from pollution and hustle-bustle of the city, Brighu Lake is the perfect destination for them. Nestled at a height of 4285 meters on the east of Rohtang Pass, the lake lies at a distance of 40 kilometers from Manali via Gualaba Village.
Travelers who are looking for tranquility and rejuvenation, must visit this lake for sure. The lake is also a famous site for trekking where one can enjoy the mesmerizing view of Bhrigu Lake Meadows. Needless to mention that, the mesmerizing views of this lake is comparable to the alpine meadows of Switzerland. One of the most interesting facts about this lake is that it never freezes throughout the year. This makes it a perfect site for camping throughout the year.
8. Surya Tal, Spiti
Surya Tal is the third largest lake in India and is located at an elevation of 4950 meters. This lake of Sun God is situated just below the Baralacha pass and is the source of Bhaga River. This lake in Spiti is a must-visit for all the thrill-seeking adventurers who want to enjoy trekking and biking.
In conclusion, with views, travelers also enjoy enhancing their photography skills at this extremely photogenic location. Not only this, but it is also a popular belief that one could wash his or her sins just by taking a dip in this spiritual lake. These facts make Surya Tal famous among the visitors to have it in their travel bucket list.
9. Serloskar Lake, Tirthan Valley
You can reach Serloskar lake which is at about 5 kilometers from Jalori Pass. The Serloskar Lake looks very enchanting with thick oak trees and dense meadows covering the path to the lake. This major attraction has crystal clear water and looks mesmerizing when the reflection of the sun falls on it. Serloskar Lake is famous for its temple of Goddess Budhi Nagin. It is belief that Goddess Budhi Nagin have hundred sons guarding this place.
10. Dal Lake, Mcleodganj
This small yet marvelous lake is at the Tota Rani village of Kangra district. It is with an elevation of 1,775 meters, you can have unforgettable experience from this lake. Travelers and adventurers prefer to visit Dal lake throughout the day. It is a perfect stopover for those trekking up to Naddi.
After all, it is one of the most sacred lakes and is home to the Shiva temple. At this place, local people organize a grand fair in September every year. You can enjoy the presence of thousands of people of Gaddi Tribe attending this grand fair.
Himachal is home to a bellyful of magical lakes which never fails to surprise you. No matter whether you are an adventurer or a religious person, this destination will never disappoint you. Visiting these lakes will not only rejuvenate your soul but also give you an wonderful unforgettable experience. Such experiences that will make you to visit the lakes again and again. After all tranquility is just a few lakes away.
