Nestled amidst the thick pine and oak forests Nachiketa Tal is a treat for the eyes to savour. This untarnished lake is situated at an elevation of 8074 ft or 2453 meters above sea level, in the east of Uttarkashi district. It is located at a distance of 131 km from Gangotri and 29 km from Uttarkashi.
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There is a small temple dedicated to Nag Devta which is visited by the villagers during Nagpanchmi. The villagers take a holy dip in this lake during Nagpanchmi and enrapture in spiritual bliss. One can also admire a panoramic view of Banderpoonch peak on the west of the lake.
Natural drains are the only source of water for the lake which are managed by the luxuriant vegetation around the lake. It is quite possible that the lake is a depression in a possible fissured zone which may open into the under water springs feeding the lake continuously.
According to a local legend, this lake was created by Uddalak and was named after his son Nachiketa. The 10-year-old Nachiketa founded the gateway to hell and, the truth behind life and death.
The hikers often trek to this heavenly place which appears to be a scene of a fairytale. The rhododendrons, the dense woods and the aquatic life attract the hikers. The route is full of soul rejuvenating views of the Himalayan peaks which you can savour while hiking.
The lake is located between latitude N 300 27’ and longitude E 710 72’ with the altitude of 2453 meters high above sea level to northeast of Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand and about 200m long and 30 m wide at its broadest points having the depth of 7 m. It is elliptical in shape and medium in size and has no discernible inlet as well as outlet.
Nachiketa Tal can be easily accessible as Garhwal region is inter-linked by motorable roads from major cities of India. Travellers can commence their journey from Delhi either by bus or train and reach Uttarkashi. Upon reaching Uttarkashi, the travellers can hire a taxi to reach Chaurangikhal which is 30 km away from Uttarkashi.
3 kms trek from a tiny hamlet called Chaurangi Khal on Uttarkashi-Lambgaon motor road will make you reach this lake. A barely 3 km hike will make you reach the placid Nachiketa Tal.
Nachiketa Tal Lake is popular place for following activities/ interests - Hiking, Lakes.
