Umiam Lake, Meghalaya: The Expansive Reservoir
Often the first stunning vista that greets travellers heading to Shillong, Umiam Lake is also known as Barapani, or 'big water'. And it lives up to the name. This vast man-made reservoir is fringed by pine-covered hills, creating a landscape of immense
scale and beauty. While it's a hub for water sports, its sheer size means finding a quiet corner for a contemplative walk is easy. The surrounding hills have numerous trails offering panoramic views of the water reflecting the sky. A walk through the nearby Lum Nehru Park provides manicured paths and stunning viewpoints, perfect for a gentle stroll. The air, scented with pine, and the gentle lapping of water create a deeply restorative atmosphere away from the main boating areas.
Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim: The Glacial Wonder
Perched at an altitude of over 12,000 feet, Tsomgo Lake is a glacial marvel that changes character with the seasons. In winter, it's a frozen expanse of white, while in spring, its aquamarine waters are framed by blooming alpine flowers. A walk around its perimeter offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks that surround it. Though popular with tourists, the main activity is often concentrated in one area, leaving much of the lakeside trail relatively peaceful for those who venture a little further. This sacred lake, revered by locals, has a palpable sense of serenity. The high-altitude air is crisp and clean, and the only sounds are often the wind and the fluttering of prayer flags, making for a truly spiritual waterside walk.
Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim: High-Altitude Solitude
Visiting Gurudongmar Lake is an adventure in itself, situated at a staggering altitude of over 17,000 feet. It is one of the highest lakes in the world and is sacred to Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus. The landscape here is stark, raw, and profoundly beautiful. The walk here is less of a casual stroll and more of a mindful, slow-paced experience due to the thin air. The path around the lake offers unparalleled views of the pristine turquoise water against a backdrop of barren, snow-dusted mountains. For most of the year, the lake remains frozen, except for one small part believed to be blessed with never-freezing waters. The silence at this altitude is absolute, offering a walk that feels like stepping into another world entirely. Note that visiting requires a permit and proper acclimatisation.
Sela Lake, Arunachal Pradesh: The Heavenly Pass
Located near the dramatic Sela Pass, which connects Tawang to the rest of India, Sela Lake is often called 'Paradise Lake'. Surrounded by some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the Himalayas, the lake’s crystal-clear water reflects the sky and surrounding peaks. In winter, it often freezes over, transforming into a sheet of ice amidst a snow-covered wonderland. A short walk along its banks is a chance to immerse yourself in high-altitude tranquility. The air is thin and cold, and the landscape feels vast and untouched. Sela Lake is one of 101 sacred lakes in the region, and its serene environment offers a quiet moment of reflection for travellers on the scenic route to Tawang.
Sangestar Tso, Arunachal Pradesh: The Forest Reclaimed by Water
Popularly known as Madhuri Lake after a Bollywood film was shot here, Sangestar Tso has a beautifully haunting origin. It was formed by an earthquake in the 1950s that dammed a river, submerging a forest in the process. Today, the surreal sight of dead tree trunks rising from the still, clear water gives the lake an otherworldly feel. Located about 35 km from Tawang, getting here requires a permit and a sturdy vehicle. A walk around the designated trail provides incredible views of this unique landscape, which feels both peaceful and profoundly wild. The tranquil environment, set in a remote valley, makes it a perfect destination for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature's raw beauty.
