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  • Painya Tal Lake

    Painya Tal, in Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, is a serene lake offering trekking, and scenic beauty, best visited in summer or autumn.



Painya Tal is located within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the largest protected areas in Uttarakhand. The sanctuary itself is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, encompassing alpine meadows, lush forests, and rugged terrains. Situated in the Rudraprayag district, the lake is accessible from various base points, including Gopeshwar, Chopta, and Ukhimath. The journey to Painya Tal often involves trekking through dense forests and picturesque landscapes, providing an immersive experience for adventure enthusiasts. The lake’s remote location ensures that it remains undisturbed, preserving its pristine beauty.

Nearby Attractions

  • Kedarnath Temple: One of the most prominent Hindu pilgrimage sites, Kedarnath Temple is located near Painya Tal. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is part of the Char Dham Yatra and attracts thousands of devotees annually. The temple’s stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks and its spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination.
  • Chopta: Often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India," Chopta is a quaint hill station and a popular base for treks to Tungnath and Chandrashila. Its lush meadows and panoramic views of the Himalayas make it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
  • Tungnath Temple: The highest Shiva temple in the world, Tungnath is a short trek from Chopta. This ancient temple is part of the Panch Kedar and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
  • Deoria Tal: Another high-altitude lake near Painya Tal, Deoria Tal is famous for its crystal-clear waters that reflect the Chaukhamba peaks. It is a popular spot for camping and photography.
  • Madhmaheshwar Temple: Located at an elevation of 3,490 meters, Madhmaheshwar Temple is another Panch Kedar site. The trek to this temple takes you through scenic villages and alpine meadows.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Painya Tal is between April and June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities.

  • Summer (April to June): This is the most popular time to visit Painya Tal. The snow has melted, revealing lush greenery, blooming flowers, and unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks. The pleasant weather during this period makes it perfect for trekking and camping.
  • Monsoon (July to August): While the monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, it is not recommended for visitors due to slippery trails and the risk of landslides. However, the region’s flora thrives during this period, creating a vibrant and lush environment.
  • Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another excellent time to visit Painya Tal. The post-monsoon months offer clear skies, crisp air, and stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas. This period is also less crowded, providing a more serene experience.
  • Winter (December to March): Winter transforms Painya Tal into a snowy wonderland, making it a paradise for snow lovers. However, access to the lake may be challenging due to heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions. Visitors during this season should be well-prepared for extreme temperatures and potential trekking difficulties.

Painya Tal, with its serene waters, breathtaking surroundings, and rich biodiversity, is a hidden treasure in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Whether you are seeking spiritual solace, an adventure-filled trek, or a peaceful retreat amidst nature, this pristine lake has something to offer. Its proximity to other attractions like Kedarnath Temple, Chopta, and Deoria Tal further enhances its appeal, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Uttarakhand. By visiting Painya Tal, you not only get to witness the raw beauty of the Himalayas but also contribute to the conservation of this fragile ecosystem. Plan your trip during the recommended seasons, and immerse yourself in the tranquil charm of this Himalayan jewel.

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