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  • Vaitarani Kund Lake

    Vaitarani Kund in Chamoli, holds mythological significance as a barrier between life and afterlife. Visited in spring or post-monsoon for pilgrimage and piece.



Vaitarani Kund Lake, often referred to simply as Vaitarani Kund, is located in the scenic and spiritually rich Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. This lake is not as widely known as some other attractions in the area but holds significant mythological importance. It's nestled amidst the Himalayan ranges, providing a serene backdrop for those seeking both natural beauty and spiritual fulfilment.

How to Reach Vaitarani Kund Lake

To reach Vaitarani Kund Lake, one must journey to the Chamoli district, which is well-connected by road from major cities like Dehradun and Haridwar. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 315 km away, while the nearest railway stations are in Haridwar or Rishikesh, about 295 km from Chamoli. From these points, travellers can opt for a taxi or bus to reach the town of Chamoli. From Chamoli town, further local transport or trekking might be necessary

For those planning a visit, the roads leading to Chamoli are generally motorable, but the final stretch to the lake could involve a short trek or local vehicle arrangement, especially if the lake is part of a larger pilgrimage route or less accessible during certain times of the year due to weather conditions.

Historical and Mythological Significance

The Vaitarani Kund Lake is deeply embedded in Hindu mythology, drawing parallels to the Vaitarani River described in Hindu scriptures like the Garuda Purana. According to these texts, Vaitarani is not just a lake or river but a metaphysical boundary between the earth and the infernal regions, ruled by Yama, the god of death. This river or lake is said to have purifying powers, where the righteous see it filled with nectar-like water, while the sinful perceive it as a river of blood.

The Vaitarani is likened to the Styx of Greek mythology, serving as a barrier that souls must cross post-mortem. It's believed that only those who lead virtuous lives or have their sins absolved can traverse this river without suffering. The lake's name comes from the Sanskrit words 'vai' (truly) and 'tarini' (saving), signifying its role in saving or purifying the soul. Legends also mention that offering a cow, termed the 'Vaitarani cow', during one's lifetime or by relatives after death, helps the deceased soul cross this river.

Nearby Attractions

  • Badrinath Temple
  • Mana Village
  • Vasudhara Falls
  • Valley of Flowers National Park
  • Hemkund Sahib
  • Auli
  • Tapt Kund

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (March to June): This is arguably the most pleasant time to visit, with moderate temperatures, blooming flora, especially at the Valley of Flowers, and relatively clear paths for trekking.
  • Post-Monsoon (September to November): After the rainy season, the region is lush and verdant, with clear skies offering spectacular mountain views. The pilgrimage routes to Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib are open, and this period sees a high influx of pilgrims.
  • Winter (December to February): While colder and potentially snowy, winter can be magical for those interested in a quieter visit or winter sports in Auli. However, many high-altitude routes might be closed or require special gear for access.
  • Monsoon (July to August): This period is generally avoided due to heavy rainfall, landslides, and potential disruptions in travel, although the Valley of Flowers is at its best.

Visiting Vaitarani Kund Lake in Chamoli would ideally be part of a broader spiritual or nature exploration journey, considering its deep mythological roots and the rich tapestry of attractions in its vicinity. Each season in this region brings its own charm, making Chamoli a year-round destination for those drawn by its spiritual, historical, and natural allure.

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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