Sari Village, a picturesque hamlet in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, serves as a tranquil base for trekkers heading to the famous Deoria Tal. Nestled at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters (6,600 feet) above sea level, this village is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, serene environment, and traditional Garhwali culture.
Sari Village embodies the traditional lifestyle of the Garhwali people, with its quaint houses, terraced fields, and warm hospitality. The villagers are primarily engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry, and they often welcome visitors with open arms, offering insights into their rich cultural heritage. Festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and local fairs are celebrated with much enthusiasm, showcasing the vibrant traditions of the region.
One of the primary attractions for visitors to Sari Village is the Deoria Tal, a high-altitude lake located about 3 kilometers from the village. The trek to Deoria Tal is relatively easy and can be completed in a couple of hours, making it suitable for beginners and families. The trail winds through lush forests and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Chaukhamba and Kedarnath peaks.
Upon reaching Deoria Tal, trekkers are rewarded with stunning reflections of the snow-capped peaks in the clear waters of the lake, creating a mesmerizing landscape that is perfect for photography and relaxation. The lake is also steeped in mythology, believed to be the spot where the Pandavas, from the epic Mahabharata, were questioned by the Yaksha.
To reach Sari Village in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, you can start by traveling to Rishikesh, which is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 20 kilometers from Rishikesh, while the nearest major railway station is in Haridwar. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus heading towards Ukhimath. Once in Ukhimath, Sari Village is a further 20 kilometers away, accessible via a local taxi or shared jeep. The roads are generally well-maintained, offering a scenic drive through the Garhwal Himalayas.
The region around Sari Village is rich in biodiversity, with a variety of flora and fauna. The forests are home to species like oak, rhododendron, and pine, providing a verdant backdrop for the village and trekking routes. Birdwatchers can spot numerous avian species, including Himalayan monals, eagles, and various types of pheasants. The area is also frequented by wildlife such as deer, langurs, and occasionally leopards.
Stay in Sari Village ranges from budget guesthouses to more comfortable homestays, allowing visitors to experience the local way of life. Most lodgings offer basic amenities and home-cooked meals, often prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The simplicity and warmth add to the charm of staying in Sari Village. Hotel Bhanu Palace in Rudraprayag is the best for your stay.
The best time to visit Sari Village and trek to Deoria Tal is from March to June and September to November. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. The monsoon season (July to August) brings heavy rains, making the trails slippery and difficult to navigate. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with snowfall making the trek challenging but offering a unique, snowy landscape for the adventurous.
Located just 3 kilometers from Sari Village, Deoria Tal is a high-altitude lake known for its pristine waters and stunning reflections of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The trek to Deoria Tal is relatively easy and offers picturesque views, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Chopta is around 25 kilometers from Sari Village. It is a beautiful hill station with lush green meadows and dense forests. Chopta serves as the base for treks to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world, and Chandrashila Peak, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Situated at an elevation of 3,680 meters, Tungnath Temple is the highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The trek to Tungnath from Chopta is a moderately challenging 4-kilometer hike. The temple is part of the Panch Kedar and is steeped in mythological significance.
Chandrashila, which means “Moon Rock,” is the summit of the Tungnath trek, situated at an altitude of about 4,000 meters. The trek to Chandrashila offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch, and Chaukhamba.
Ukhimath, located about 20 kilometers from Sari Village, is a small town of great religious importance. It is the winter abode of Lord Kedarnath, and the deity from Kedarnath Temple is brought here during the winter months. The Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is a significant pilgrimage site.
Madhyamaheshwar Temple, part of the Panch Kedar, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated at an altitude of 3,497 meters. The trek to Madhyamaheshwar is a bit challenging but passes through scenic landscapes, making it rewarding for trekkers and pilgrims alike.
Rohini Bugyal is a picturesque meadow located en route to Deoria Tal. It is an ideal spot for camping and offers beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The lush green pastures are perfect for a relaxing day in nature.
Kalpeshwar, another temple in the Panch Kedar series, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in the Urgam Valley. It is the only Panch Kedar temple accessible throughout the year. The unique feature of this temple is the image of the hair (Jata) of Lord Shiva worshipped here.
Rudraprayag, about 50 kilometers from Sari Village, is one of the Panch Prayag (five confluences) of the Alaknanda River. It is the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. The town is named after Lord Shiva, who is believed to have appeared here in the form of Rudra.
Sari Village is a hidden gem in the Rudraprayag district, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a trekking aficionado, Sari Village provides a serene and enriching experience that captures the essence of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Sari Village is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, approximately 20 kilometers from Ukhimath and about 220 kilometers from Rishikesh.
You can reach Sari Village by road from major cities like Rishikesh and Dehradun. The nearest railway station is in Haridwar, and the closest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From these points, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sari Village.
The best time to visit Sari Village is from March to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, making it ideal for trekking and sightseeing.
The main attractions include:
Yes, the trek to Deoria Tal is relatively easy and can be completed in about 2 hours. It is suitable for beginners, families, and even children.