Nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, Deoria Tal is a picturesque high-altitude lake situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. At an elevation of 2,438 meters (7,999 feet) above sea level, this enchanting lake offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Surrounded by lush green meadows and dense forests, Deoria Tal provides a stunning view of the snow-clad peaks of Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Bandarpoonch, and other towering Himalayan ranges. This guide delves into the allure of Deoria Tal, its significance, how to reach there, the best time to visit, and what to expect during your journey.
Deoria Tal is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, which reflect the surrounding forests and the majestic Himalayan peaks. The lake’s serene ambiance and natural beauty make it a favorite destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers. The legend associated with adds to its mystique. According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata were believed to have visited this lake during their exile. It is said that Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, was asked questions by a Yaksha (a nature spirit) at this very spot.
The area around Deoria Tal is rich in biodiversity. The dense forests comprise oak, rhododendron, and deodar trees. In spring, the rhododendrons bloom, adding a splash of vibrant red to the green landscape. The lake and its surroundings are home to various bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. You might spot Himalayan Monal, Hill Partridge, and various other avian species during your visit. The forests also harbor several mammals, including the elusive Himalayan black bear and the musk deer.
The nearest airport to Deoria Tal is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sari Village, the base point for the trek to Tal.
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh. Rishikesh is well-connected to major cities. From Rishikesh, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Sari Village.
Sari Village, the starting point for the trek to Deoria Tal, is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun to Rudraprayag. From Rudraprayag, Sari Village is approximately 55 kilometers away, and you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach there.
It offers a variety of activities for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here are some of the popular activities you can indulge in:
It is a part of several trekking routes in the Garhwal region. One of the most popular treks is the Deoria Tal-Chopta-Chandrashila Trek. This trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, dense forests, and picturesque landscapes. The trail from Sari Village to Deoria Tal is a moderate trek, suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. The distance is about 2.3 kilometers and takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete.
Camping by the serene Deoria Tal is an unforgettable experience. The clear night sky, dotted with countless stars, and the reflection of the moon on the lake’s surface create a magical ambiance. There are designated camping spots around the lake, and you can either bring your camping gear or hire it from local providers.
The rich avifauna around Deoria Tal makes it a perfect spot for bird watching. Photographers can capture the stunning reflections of the Himalayan peaks in the lake, the vibrant flora, and the diverse wildlife. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting for photography.
Deoria Tal can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the months of March to June and September to November. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, offering unobstructed views of the Himalayan peaks.
Spring is one of the best times to visit Deoria Tal. The weather is pleasant, and the rhododendrons are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. The clear skies provide excellent visibility of the Himalayan ranges.
Autumn is another ideal time to visit Deoria Tal. The monsoon rains wash the surroundings, making the landscape lush and green. The weather is cool, and the skies are clear, offering breathtaking views of the snow-clad peaks.
Winter brings snowfall to Deoria Tal, transforming the area into a winter wonderland. While the lake and its surroundings are covered in snow, the trek can be challenging due to the cold weather and snow-covered paths. However, for those seeking a winter adventure, this is a great time to visit.
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to the region, making the trek to Deoria Tal challenging. The trails can be slippery, and there is a risk of landslides. It is advisable to avoid visiting during this period.
The local cuisine of Uttarakhand is simple yet delicious, reflecting the culture and traditions of the region. While in Sari Village and the surrounding areas, you can savor the local delicacies, including:
Tungnath Temple
Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world and is located near Chopta, which is about 30 kilometers from Ukhimath. It’s a scenic trek from Chopta to Tungnath, and further to Chandrashila Peak (which offers stunning views of the Himalayas) can be an adventurous extension to your trip.
Chopta, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” is a serene hill station nestled amidst pine, deodar, and rhododendron forests. It’s known for its tranquil atmosphere, lush meadows, and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.
Kedarnath is a major pilgrimage site and one of the Char Dham temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s located about 40 kilometers from Ukhimath and offers breathtaking views of the Kedarnath Peak and surrounding mountains.
Deoria Tal is situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. It is approximately 3 kilometers from the town of Ukhimath and about 68 kilometers from Rudraprayag.
To reach Deoria Tal, you can travel to Ukhimath by road. From Ukhimath, there is a trek of about 2.5 kilometers to the lake. The nearest major city with good connectivity is Haridwar, from where you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Ukhimath.
The best time to visit Deoria Tal is during the summer months from April to June and the autumn months from September to November. During these times, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are usually clear, offering excellent views of the Himalayan peaks and the lake.
Besides camping, there are a few guesthouses and budget hotels available in Ukhimath where you can stay before or after your trek to Deoria Tal. Rudraprayag also offers more options for stays like Hotel Bhanu Palace.
Yes, camping is allowed at Deoria Tal. There are several campsites around the lake offering basic amenities such as tents, sleeping bags, and meals. Camping beside the lake under the starlit sky is a popular choice among visitors.