6 Highest Lakes In India For Best Views

Given that the Himalayas are among the tallest mountains in the world, the lakes formed here are some of the highest in India. These lakes are blessed with beautiful topography, showcasing a diverse range of landscapes. Some are nestled amidst lush greenery, surrounded by dense forests and vibrant flora, while others offer panoramic views of majestic snow-capped peaks and winding rivers.

Being in the midst of such natural splendor, these lakes provide a profound sense of calm and tranquility, offering visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The pristine waters reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a picturesque setting that captivates the soul.

However, reaching these high-altitude lakes can be an adventure in itself, often requiring trekking or hiking through rugged terrain and challenging pathways. For adventure enthusiasts, this journey adds to the allure of these remote destinations, offering an opportunity to explore untamed wilderness and experience the thrill of high-altitude trekking.

In addition to their natural beauty, these lakes hold cultural and spiritual significance for the local communities, often serving as pilgrimage sites or sanctuaries for meditation and reflection. Thus, a visit to these Himalayan lakes not only promises breathtaking scenery but also a deeper connection to the rich cultural heritage of the region.

# Gurudongmar Lake

Gurudongmar Lake, located in Sikkim, is among the highest lakes in India. Situated at an altitude of almost 17,800 feet, the water body is surrounded by the Himalayas. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava, the Indian Buddhist master, came to a village nearby and saw that the people were troubled due to a lack of drinking water. This is when he went to the water body, which was completely frozen, and struck the ground. This thawed a large part of the lake and provided people with fresh water.

# Tso Lhamo

Among the highest lakes in India, Tso Lhamo is located at an altitude of about 17,500 feet. The freshwater lake is in close proximity to the Tibetan border, and thus, one needs an Army-approved permit to visit. It is also the origin of the river Teesta and is one of the ‘Tso Chen’ of Sikkim (Gurudongmar Lake is another one of them).

Tso Lhamo is one of the most visually rewarding lake treks in India. In the spring season, areas around the lake are covered in a bed of flowers, making the already stunning scenery more picturesque. It is also home to migratory birds and local wildlife.

# Suraj Tal

Located just below Bara Lacha Pass, Suraj Tal is probably among the most scenic lakes that you will see. One of the highest lakes in India, Suraj Tal is where Bhaga River originates, flowing downstream to form the Chandrabhaga. The destination is also a holy spot because of this and has religious and spiritual significance. It is located at an altitude of over 16,000 feet and is 800 metres long.

The crystal clear water of the lake reflects the snow-topped mountains on which Bara Lacha Pass rests. Not just that, dawn here is a beautiful sight, with the sun’s reflection shining beautifully on the ripples of water created on the lake’s surface.

# Roopkund Lake

Roopkund is definitely an intriguing spot, and not an easy one to reach. The lake has an altitude of 14,882 feet and a width of about 40 metres. It is mysterious because of the presence of human skeletons at the bottom, earning it the name ‘Skeleton Lake’.

One of the most popular ways to reach here is via a trek, which takes you through deep forests and the wilderness. It is a truly beautiful place to visit, and the eerie stories around the lake will send chills up your spine.

# Tso Moriri

Another lake located in the cold desert of Ladakh, Tso Moriri is slightly less popular than Pangong Tso. Located at an altitude of 14,836 feet, the lake is a sight to behold! The water here turns from light blue to deep blue. You’ll see wildlife such as yaks, marmots, wild ass, cranes and hares.

The lake, which lies completely in Ladakh in the Trans-Himalayan Region, is roughly 26 kilometres long and about five kilometres wide. It is made up of alkaline water, which cannot be directly consumed. The place is also a reserve for the Indian Wildlife Association, where the organisation has set up a research base.

# Chandra Tal

Located in the stunning Spiti Valley, Chandra Tal is a place that you must visit. The ethereal lake turns even more magnificent at night, as the moonlight reflects on it. This is one of the reasons camping is a popular activity here, as are lake treks to the destination. Located at a height of about 14,100 feet, Chandra Tal is surrounded by Himalayan peaks.

The lake is crescent-shaped and has a place in Hindu mythology, too. It is believed that Lord Indra came here to take the only surviving Pandava, Yudhisthira, to heaven in his mortal form. It is also believed to be the source of origin for the river Chandra, which later merges with Bhaga to form Chandrabhaga.