When the rising and sizzling temperature of the summers reaches its peak, then you start searching for cool options to chill out. In this mounting degree, there can be nothing better than wandering amidst the cold lanes of Garhwal Himalayas. Owing to its snow clad mountain ranges, majestic glaciers and plethora of scenic beauty, Garhwal is one of the most visited summer holiday destinations. Moreover, this hill town of Uttarakhand embraces various lakes within its periphery. The lakes nestled in Garhwal Himalayas are highly acknowledged for associated folklores and of course the spell bound beauty. Read more to have a virtual Garhwal lake tour.
Deoria Lake
The Deoria Lake is located on Chamoli-Ukhimath route. This lake has a legend associated with it that can be tracked down from the time of Mahabharata. As per the beliefs, it is the same lake where the Yaksha asked questions from the Pandavas, before drinking the water of the Tal (lake). Further, with the backdrop of various sky kissing mountains, the lake is a wonderful delight for eyes. The reflection of Chaukhamba peaks in the blue water of the lake is astounding. Another fact that adds to the splendor is the presence rhododendron flowers around the lake.
Dodital
Nestled amidst the pine forests, the Dodital is among one of the most splendid lakes in Garhwal Himalayas. Further, it is the high altitude meadow – Darwa Bugyal that adds stars in the charm of the lake. The lake is a home for a larger number of golden trout (fish from the salmon family), which is called ‘dodi’ in the local language. It is said that the lake has drawn its name from this trout only. Further, Dodital is also called Dhundhital. Dhundhi in Sanskrit is a synonym of Lord Ganesha and this lake is the birth place of the deity as per the folklores. There is a holy shrine devoted to Lord Ganesha near the lake and thus the place is highly adored by pilgrims.
Satopanth Lake
The Satopanth Lake is triangular in shape and as per the mythological tales each corner of the lake is devoted to the trinity – Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. There is one more legend associated with this lake. It is said that the water of this lake always stays unadulterated because a rare bird picks up the pollutants from the Tal. These birds are believed to be Gandharvas camouflaged. The saga of associated folklores doesn’t end here. As per another belief, the Satopanth Lake is the stair case to heaven as the Pandavas are believed to cross this lake during their journey to paradise.
Roopkund Lake
Roopkund Lake has drawn its name from legendary tales. It is believed that while Goddess Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva was going towards Mt. Kailash, she stopped at this lake. She paused for a while to see her reflection and check her beauty in the lake. Thus, the lake got its name as Roopkund. Further, the water of this lake remains freeze almost round the year. It is just in the peak summer season, when it melts a bit. Roopkund is certainly a natural wonder amidst the other lakes of Garhwal.
Hemkund Lake
The Hemkund Lake was earlier known as the Lokpal Lake. This is one of the most sacred pilgrim destinations of Sikhs and Hindus. There are deep legends forming the grounds of this lake in both the religions. As per Sikh mythology the 10th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji lived and meditated at Hemkund in his earlier life. Hemkund is the same place where Guru Gobind Singh Ji in his earlier life amalgamated with the supreme power. Shri Hemkund Sahib Ji Gurudwara is the holy shrine devoted to the 10th Sikh Guru. Now coming to Hindu folklore, when Meghnath’s deception severely injured Lord Lakshman, the deity was brought to the shore of this lake. Lakshman temple at one bank of the Hemkund Lake is one of the most respected Hindu pilgrim destinations.
Mentioned above are just few lakes located in the Garhwal Himalayas, there are many others that you can explore while visiting the place. The sight of these lakes will be a treat to your eyes and the freezing temperature around will gift you cool mantras to skip the sizzling summers.
More about Zara
Zara Jones is a popular blogger and professional writer, passionate for tourism. She has traveled and explored all of India and written many informative blog posts about adventure tour. Follow her on G+.
