5 high altitude lakes in India for your next offbeat adventure

You’ll be shocked to know that some of the high altitude lakes in India are located at an elevation above 4,000 m! These lakes are so high and so beautiful surrounded by natural beauty that they will definitely leave you awestruck! These lakes are created by glacier-melted waters that flow down from the majestic mountains and create an eye-pleasing spectacle.

These are not just beautiful water bodies; they are also vital sources for downstream communities and certain rare species. Let’s have a look at some of the high altitude lakes that one must visit:

Pangong Tso needs no introduction. The lake, at an elevation of 14,270 ft, is so blue that your eyes won’t believe what they are seeing! It is often compared to a chameleon, as the water colour changes throughout the day from azure to green, silver, grey, and even blue, creating a magical spectacle. The lake has become even more famous after the blockbuster movie ‘3 Idiots’ was filmed here with the iconic yellow scooter scene. One can also spot some exotic birds around the lake, like bar-headed geese, Brahmini ducks, and more.

Roopkund is located at an elevation of 16,470 ft and is also known as the Skeleton Lake. Here, one can also find hundreds of human skeletons that create a haunting sight. One can also trek to this lake with alpine meadows around, rugged terrain, and it gives a panoramic view of the majestic Himalayan mountains. According to the season and weather, the lake which remains frozen for most of the year-expands and shrinks. It is also known as a mystery lake because it is unknown why so many skeletons are present here.

Tso Moriri is another gorgeous lake in Ladakh set at less than an elevation of 15,000 ft. The lake is surrounded by unique plants and wetlands. Here, one can also find migratory birds such as endangered black-necked cranes and bar-headed geese. Travellers can also visit the nearby Korzok village and a 400-year-old monastery, and one can also stay in homestays run by Changpa nomadic herders.

This lake is located at an elevation of about 17,000–18,000 ft and is also one of India’s highest lakes. This lake is located between snow-covered mountains and is sacred to both the Hindus and the Buddhists. What is most astonishing about this lake is that it is said that one part of this lake was blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, so whenever one visits, they will never find that spot frozen ,not even in winters. This lake is considered to have mystical properties, as locals suggest that drinking water from this lake can resolve fertility issues in women.

Chandratal is also known as ‘Moon Lake’ set at an elevation of 4,300 m. What makes this lake unique is its crescent shape formation which resembles ‘half moon’. This lake is located in Spiti Valley, and one can also do trekking, high-altitude camping here, and also enjoy a serene atmosphere- a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. The lake also has mythological importance, as it is the spot where Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava brother, was taken to heaven by Lord Indra's chariot in the epic Mahabharata. The beautiful landscapes around and the lake’s blue water create a picture-perfect sight.