Kedartal Lake, also known as Shiva’s Lake, is a stunning high-altitude glacial lake nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. It’s situated at an elevation of about 4,750 meters (15,580 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest lakes in India and in the world.
Kedar Tal Trek In Uttarakhand
Kedartal Lake, also known as Shiva’s Lake, is a high-altitude glacial lake situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. It’s nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of around 4,750 meters (15,580 feet) above sea level. The lake is fed by the snowmelt from the surrounding peaks and remains frozen for most of the year due to its high altitude and cold temperatures.
The trek to Kedartal is considered challenging and adventurous, attracting seasoned trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The trail takes you through rugged terrain, dense forests, and scenic landscapes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks like Thalay Sagar, Bhrigupanth, and Meru. The lake holds significant religious importance for Hindus, believed to be the site where Lord Shiva imparted knowledge to the sage, Ganesha.
Activities in Kedartal Lake
Trekking: The most popular activity in the region is trekking to Kedartal Lake itself. The trek usually starts from Gangotri and involves a challenging but rewarding journey through breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
Camping: Set up your tent near the shores of Kedartal Lake and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. Camping here offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of the Himalayas under the starry night sky.
Photography: Capture the stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, pristine alpine meadows, and the crystal-clear waters of Kedartal Lake. The landscape offers endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
Birdwatching: Keep an eye out for Himalayan bird species such as Himalayan Monal, Snow Partridge, and Himalayan Griffon during your trekking and camping adventures around Kedartal Lake.
Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding area on foot, taking leisurely strolls along the trails that wind through the Himalayan forests. Keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna that thrive in this high-altitude ecosystem.
Yoga and Meditation: Find a peaceful spot near the lake to practice yoga and meditation amidst the serene natural surroundings. The tranquil atmosphere of Kedartal Lake provides an ideal setting for relaxation and introspection.
Picnicking: Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal with friends or family amidst the breathtaking scenery of Kedartal Lake. Find a scenic spot along the shores of the lake to relax and rejuvenate.
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How To Reach Kedartal Lake
By Road
By Road:
From Delhi: You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Delhi to reach Gangotri. The distance between Delhi and Gangotri is around 450 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately 12-14 hours.
From Dehradun: There are regular buses and shared taxis available from Dehradun to Gangotri. The journey takes around 10-12 hours by road.
From Rishikesh/Haridwar: Rishikesh and Haridwar are also major transit points for reaching Gangotri. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from either of these places to reach Gangotri, which takes around 8-10 hours depending on road conditions and traffic.
Once you reach Gangotri, you’ll need to trek to Kedartal Lake. The trek from Gangotri to Kedartal is around 17 kilometers long and takes approximately 2-3 days, depending on your pace and weather conditions.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Kedartal is in Dehradun as well. Dehradun Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. From Dehradun, you can proceed by road to Gangotri, the starting point for the trek.
By Air
The nearest airport to Kedartal Lake is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 250 kilometers away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gangotri, the base camp for the Kedartal trek.