Gadsar Lake To Chandratal Lake: 6 Best Alpine Lakes To Visit In India To Get That Scenic Feel

What Are Alpine Lakes?

Alpine lakes are found at altitudes above 3,000 metres, typically in mountainous regions. These lakes are formed from melting glaciers and snow, giving them a crystal-clear or deep-blue appearance. Unlike the usual lakes you may have seen, these are often surrounded by rugged cliffs, wildflowers, and snow-capped peaks creating peaceful surreal scenery.

6 Best Alpine Lakes To Visit In India

1. Pangong Tso, Ladakh

You might recognise Pangong Tso from Bollywood movie ‘3 Idiots’, but nothing compares to seeing it in person. Pangong Tso is a famous high-altitude lake that stretches from India into Tibet, and changes colour depending on the sunlight from deep blue to aqua green. A visit here feels like entering another realm altogether, where silence speaks louder than words. The lake freezes in winter but stays stunning all year round.

2. Chandratal Lake, Himachal Pradesh

Chandratal, meaning 'Moon Lake', sits at 4,300 metres in the Spiti region. Its crescent shape and emerald waters against the barren Spiti backdrop create a magical contrast. “Chandertal Lake is a high altitude lake and a Ramsar site on the upper Chandra valley flowing to the Chandra River of the Western Himalayas (4,337m above sea level) near the Kunzam pass joining the Himalayan and Pir Panjal ranges”, as per the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department portal. Perfect for stargazing, camping, or just soaking in silence, Chandratal is a favourite for those looking to disconnect.

3. Tso Moriri, Ladakh

Incredible India Ministry of Tourism portal states that,” Less than 250 kms southeast of Leh, the high-altitude Tso Moriri is picturesquely situated in the remote, breathtakingly gorgeous Rupshu Valley. Approximately 4,000 metres above sea level, this tranquil lake is surrounded by towering mountains.” It further states, “At its widest point, this beautiful lake with a blue palette is around 7 kms wide and 19 kms long.” It’s also surrounded by towering peaks, making it a paradise for photographers and solitude seekers. Tso Moriri is officially called the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve and is protected as a Ramsar site.

4. Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim

Perched at 5,183 metres, Gurudongmar is one of the highest lakes in the world. It holds religious significance for Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus. “One of the most beautiful, pristine lakes in Sikkim, Gurudongmar Lake sits in close proximity to the Tibetan and Chinese border in the north. Nested amidst the mountains at 5,183 meters, the freezing alpine lake is amongst the major sources of the river Teesta. The lake takes its name after the eminent guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to have traversed this region during his visit to Tibet”, according to the Sikkim Tourism portal.

5. Gadsar Lake, Kashmir

Kashmir.

Prettiest lake ever? This is Gadsar Lake clicked from a phone without any edits. pic.twitter.com/nosUdlFVin

— Shubham Mansingka (@travelshoebum) November 9, 2016

Gadsar Lake is a peaceful and beautiful lake located in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal district. Its name means ‘Lake of Fishes’, but locals also call it the ‘Lake of Flowers’ because of the vibrant wildflowers that bloom in full glory during the summer months. What truly sets Gadsar apart is its untouched charm. Since it's accessible only by trekking, the footfall is limited, making it an ideal destination for adventurer seekers and nature lovers.

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6. Roopkund Lake, Uttarakhand

Roopkund Lake is a high alpine glacial lake trek in Chamoli, Uttarakhand. In the laps of Trishul, a massif in the Chamoli region and still uninhabited, Roopkund is located at above 16,000 feet in the Himalayas, surrounded by rock-strewn glaciers and snow-clad mountains. pic.twitter.com/8kP6kPbGUX

— Uttarakhand Tourism (@UTDBofficial) November 11, 2022

This glacial lake isn’t just known for its stark beauty but it’s famous for the human skeletons found at its bottom, visible when the snow melts. When the snow melts in the region, these skeletons appear. They date back to the 9th century and have sparked many theories about how these people died. Located at around 5,020 metres, Roopkund is a popular trekking destination. The mystery of its past and the beauty of the landscape make it a thrilling visit.

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Travel Tips Before You Plan To See Alpine Lakes

High-altitude lakes (Alpine lakes are found at altitudes) are not easy to reach and require a bit of physical readiness. Always take time to check the weather, environment, carry essential medication, and dress in layers.

Whether you’re planning a solo trip, a trekking adventure, or just want to experience something new, these Alpine lakes promise a journey you won’t forget.

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Image credit: Shutterstock, Tripadvisor, and Twitter