Most Beautiful Lakes Of The Himalayan Mountain Range
The Himalayan mountain range is known for its stunning natural beauty and is home to many lakes, both large and small. One of the most famous lakes in the Himalayas is Lake Pangong Tso, located in the region of Ladakh, which is a union territory in India. Apart from this, Mansarovar lake is also famous according to the religious point of view, let’s know about some major lakes situated in the lap of the Himalayas.
Pangong Tso Lake – Ladakh, India
Pangong Tso Lake, located in Ladakh, India, is a stunning high altitude lake situated amidst the mighty Himalayas. Straddling the international border between India and China, the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the lake extend for 134 kilometers (83 mi).
Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the mesmerizing colors of Pangong Tso change with the sunlight, creating a surreal and breathtaking landscape. The lake gained international fame after appearing in the popular Bollywood film “3 Idiots”.
Gokyo Lake – Khumbu Valley, Nepal
The Gokyo Lakes are a group of six glacial lakes located near Mount Everest in the Khumbu Valley of Nepal. Known for their blue and green waters, these sacred lakes are set against a backdrop of lofty peaks including Cho Oyu, the sixth highest mountain in the world.
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The highest and largest lake, Doodh Pokhri, presents a mirror-like reflection of the surrounding Himalayan giants. The Gokyo lakes are considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus, attracting trekkers and spiritual pilgrims alike.
Rara Lake – Mugu District, Nepal
Rara Lake, located in the remote Mugu district of Nepal, is a hidden gem in the Himalayas. It is also the largest lake in Nepal and is situated at an altitude of 2,990 meters (9,810 ft) surrounded by Rara National Park.
The calm waters of the lake reflect the surrounding alpine forests and snow-capped peaks, creating a picturesque view. Rara Lake is also an important habitat for various wildlife species including the rare red panda and musk deer.
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Dal Lake – Srinagar, India
Dal Lake is a jewel of the Kashmir Valley located in Srinagar, India. Known as the “Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir”, Dal Lake is famous for its serene beauty, floating markets and traditional houseboats called shikaras.
The lake is surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, with the snow-capped Pir Panjal range providing a stunning view. Visitors can explore the lake on lively shikaras, pass by floating markets, and marvel at the Mughal gardens that line its shores.
Tilicho Lake – Manang District, Nepal
Tilicho Lake, located in the Manang District of Nepal, is one of the highest lakes in the world, situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 ft). Surrounded by the rugged Himalayan peaks including the Annapurna range, Tilicho Lake provides a wonderful and awe-inspiring setting.
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The clear water in the lake comes from melting icebergs, and the reflection of the mountains surrounding it creates a surreal and picturesque sight. Tilicho Lake is a popular destination for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit Trail.
Tsomgo Lake – Sikkim, India
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a picturesque glacial lake located in the Indian state of Sikkim. Situated at an altitude of 3,753 m (12,313 ft), the lake is surrounded by high mountains and lush alpine meadows.
Tsomgo Lake is revered as a sacred site by the local Sikkimese people, and is known for its changing colors throughout the year, from deep blue to crystal clear. The lake freezes during winters, adding a surreal touch to its already enchanting beauty.
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Gosainkunda Lake – Rasuwa District, Nepal
Gosainkunda Lake, located in the Rasuwa district of Nepal, is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is a high altitude lake at an altitude of 4,380 meters (14,370 ft) and is believed to have been created by Lord Shiva’s trident.
Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine alpine forests, the Gosainkunda Lake offers a calm and serene environment. The area is known for its annual pilgrimage during the Janai Purnima festival, where devotees take a holy dip in the lake.
Gurudongmar Lake – Sikkim, India
Gurudongmar Lake, located in North Sikkim, India, is one of the highest lakes in the world at an altitude of 5,183 meters (16,996 ft). Surrounded by the Himalayas, this lake is revered by both Buddhists and Sikhs.
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According to legend, Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, blessed this lake during his visit to Tibet. The waters of the lake, frozen in parts during winter, present a surreal and picturesque sight against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
She Phoksundo Lake – Dolpa District, Nepal
She Phoksundo Lake is a hidden gem located in the remote Dolpa district of Nepal. Situated at an altitude of 3,611 m (11,849 ft), it is the deepest lake in Nepal and is surrounded by rugged mountains and barren landscape.
The crystal-clear blue waters of the lake contrast beautifully with the arid terrain, creating a captivating and unique landscape. She Phoksundo Lake is also known for the ancient She Gompa Monastery situated on its shore, which adds to its cultural and historical status.
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Nainital Lake – Nainital, India
Nainital Lake is a beautiful lake located in the hill station of Nainital, India. it’s pear shapedThe lake is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Known as the “Lake District of India”, Nainital charms travelers with its serene boat rides, alluring lakeside walks and breathtaking sunsets.
The lake is surrounded by picturesque colonial-era buildings including the historic Nainital Boat House Club. Nainital Lake has long been a popular destination for tourists seeking peace in the lap of the Himalayas.
Lake Manasarovar, Western Tibet
It is a sacred freshwater lake located in the western Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Manasarovar Lake is situated at an altitude of 4,590 meters (15,060 ft) and is located near Mount Kailash, one of the most sacred mountains in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Bon religion.
The name “Manasarovar” translates to “Lake of Consciousness” or “Lake of the Mind” in Sanskrit. It holds great spiritual significance for Hindus and Buddhists, who believe that bathing in its holy waters can cleanse one of sin and lead to spiritual enlightenment.
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