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  • Kedar Tal Lake

    Kedar Tal in Uttarakhand India is a high-altitude glacial lake in the Himalayas. A challenging trek leads to its turquoise waters, and peaks like Thalay Sagar.



Kedar Tal, also known as Shiva's Lake, is a pristine glacial lake situated at an elevation of approximately 4,750 meters (15,580 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. This high-altitude lake is renowned for its clear turquoise waters, reflecting the towering Thalay Sagar peak, and is a sought-after destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.

Historical and Mythological Significance

In Hindu mythology, Kedar Tal holds significant reverence as it is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The lake is considered sacred, and its waters are thought to have spiritual cleansing properties. Pilgrims and devotees undertake the challenging trek to Kedar Tal to pay homage to Lord Shiva and seek blessings.

Nearby Attractions

  • Gangotri: Approximately 18 kilometers from Kedar Tal, Gangotri is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites and the origin of the River Ganges. The Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, is a significant spiritual center attracting thousands of pilgrims annually.
  • Bhoj Kharak: This is the first campsite on the trek to Kedar Tal, located about 8 kilometers from Gangotri. The area is named after the 'Bhojpatra' trees found here and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
  • Kedar Kharak: Situated further along the trek, Kedar Kharak is a meadow that serves as the second campsite en route to Kedar Tal. The location provides stunning vistas of the Himalayan landscape and is a popular spot for acclimatization.
  • Thalay Sagar Peak: Dominating the skyline near Kedar Tal, Thalay Sagar is a prominent peak rising to 6,904 meters (22,651 feet). It is a challenging climb for mountaineers and adds to the scenic beauty of the Kedar Tal region.

Boating

Due to its high altitude, remote location, and the sacred nature of its waters, boating is neither feasible nor permitted on Kedar Tal. Visitors are encouraged to respect the sanctity of the lake and avoid any activities that may disturb its natural serenity.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal time to visit Kedar Tal is during the pre-monsoon months of May to June and the post-monsoon months of September to October. During these periods, the weather is relatively stable, and the trekking routes are accessible. The summer season offers snowy trails and a partially frozen lake, while autumn provides clear skies and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks

Trekking to Kedar Tal

The trek to Kedar Tal is considered challenging due to the steep ascents, rocky terrain, and high altitude. The journey begins from Gangotri, passing through dense forests, alpine meadows, and glacial moraines. Key stops along the route include Bhoj Kharak and Kedar Kharak, which serve as acclimatization points. The total trekking distance is approximately 18 kilometers from Gangotri to Kedar Tal, typically completed over 3 to 4 days.

Kedar Tal, with its pristine beauty and spiritual significance, offers a rewarding experience for trekkers and pilgrims seeking solitude amidst the majestic Himalayas. The journey to this high-altitude lake is challenging but provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and experience the serene ambiance of the Garhwal region.

Related Uttarakhand Tourism Posts - Lakes - Taal and Kund

1. Apsara Tal Lake 2. Assan Barrage Lake 3. Auli Lake 4. Badhani Taal Lake 5. Baijnath Jheel Lake 6. Baraadsar Lake 7. Baur Reservoir Lake 8. Bedni Kund Lake 9. Bharadsar Tal Lake 10. Bhenkal Tal Lake 11. Bhimtal Lake 12. Bhulla Tal Lake 13. Bisurital Lake 14. Brahmatal Lake 15. Chattrakund Lake 16. Chenab Lake 17. Chipla Kund Lake 18. Chorabari Lake 19. Chorabari Tal Lake 20. Deo Tal Lake 21. Deoria Lake 22. Devaria Tal Lake 23. Dodital Lake 24. Drona Sagar Lake 25. Dugdh Tal Lake 26. Fachu Kandi Tal Lake 27. Girital Lake 28. Gohna Tal Lake 29. Harish Tal Lake 30. Harsil Sattal Lake 31. Hemkund Lake 32. Homkund Lake 33. Jhilmil Taal Lake 34. Juda Ka Talab Lake 35. Kagbhusandi Tal Lake 36. Kamal Tal Lake 37. Kanchani Tal Lake 38. Kedar Tal Lake 39. Khurpatal Lake 40. Kyarkoti Lake 41. Lake Mist 42. Lohakham Tal Lake 43. Macchi Tal Lake 44. Mahasar Tal Lake 45. Maldaru Tal Lake 46. Marinda Tal Lake 47. Masar Tal Lake 48. Mussoorie Lake 49. Nachiketa Tal Lake 50. Naini Lake - Nainital 51. Nal Damyanti Tal Lake 52. Nanak Sagar Lake 53. Nandi Kund Lake 54. Narad Kund 55. Naukuchiatal Lake 56. Painya Tal Lake 57. Parvati Sarovar Lake 58. Purna Tal Lake 59. Rani Jheel Lake 60. Roopkund Lake 61. Ruinsara Lake 62. Ruinsara Tal Lake 63. Sahastra Tal Lake 64. Saptrishi Kund Lake 65. Sariyatal Lake 66. Sarutal Lake 67. Satopanth Lake 68. Sattal Lake 69. Shyamlatal Lake 70. Sukunda Tal Lake 71. Suptaal Jhaltaal Lake 72. Tadag Tal Lake 73. Tapt Kund 74. Tara Kund Lake 75. Taragtal Lake 76. Tarakund Lake 77. Tehri Dam Reservoir Lake 78. Thamri Kund Lake 79. Vaitarani Kund Lake 80. Vasuki Tal Lake


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