Umiam Lake, Meghalaya
Often the first stunning landscape visitors see when driving from Guwahati to Shillong, Umiam Lake is a vast man-made reservoir also known as Barapani. Surrounded by the lush Khasi hills, its sheer size and scenic beauty are captivating. While it's a popular
spot for water sports like kayaking and boating, there are plenty of quiet corners for a peaceful stroll. The nearby Nehru Park offers manicured trails, and a walk along its sprawling periphery provides breathtaking views of the water reflecting the sky and forests. The area around the lake has designated trails perfect for nature walks and birdwatching, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene environment away from the main activity centres. For a truly quiet experience, find a spot along the shore to simply sit and absorb the panoramic views.
Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim
Situated at a breathtaking altitude of over 17,000 feet, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world. The journey itself, typically starting before dawn from the village of Lachen, is an adventure through a high-altitude cold desert landscape. The air is thin and the winds are strong, so walks here are slow and deliberate, but profoundly rewarding. Most of the lake remains frozen for much of the year, its crystal-clear blue waters surrounded by snow-dusted peaks. Walking along its edge, with prayer flags fluttering in the wind, is a spiritual experience for many, given its significance in both Buddhism and Sikhism. The stark, pristine beauty and overwhelming sense of peace make the challenging journey worthwhile, offering a walk in an almost otherworldly setting.
Loktak Lake, Manipur
Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, but its fame comes from the unique 'phumdis'—heterogeneous masses of vegetation, soil, and organic matter that float on its surface. These floating islands create a landscape unlike any other. While boat rides are a popular way to explore, the area around the lake offers serene walks with unique vantage points. From the hillock of Sendra Island, you can get a panoramic view of the lake and its floating biomass. A walk through the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the world's only floating national park and home to the endangered Sangai deer, offers an unparalleled experience of this unique ecosystem. The villages around the lake provide a glimpse into the lives of the local fishing communities, whose lives are intrinsically linked to the water.
Shilloi Lake, Nagaland
Tucked away in the Phek district near the Myanmar border, Shilloi Lake is Nagaland's largest natural lake. Shaped like a human footprint and surrounded by pine-covered hills, it is a place of serene beauty and local folklore. The journey to Shilloi is long and best suited for those looking for an offbeat destination, which ensures it remains quiet and untouched. Once there, the calm waters perfectly mirror the surrounding forests on still mornings. Walks around the lake are peaceful and offer a chance to engage in birdwatching, especially between October and March when migratory birds visit. Local communities hold the lake in high reverence, which has helped preserve its pristine condition, making it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation.
Sela Lake, Arunachal Pradesh
Located near the high-altitude Sela Pass on the way to Tawang, Sela Lake is a sacred body of water that often remains frozen in winter. Perched at an altitude of 13,700 feet, it is one of some 101 sacred lakes for Tibetan Buddhists in the region. There is a walkway constructed around the lake, allowing visitors to take a gentle stroll and absorb the stunning beauty of the crystal-clear water reflecting the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The high altitude means the air is crisp and cold, and the landscape is often shrouded in mist, adding to its mystical charm. While many travellers stop here only briefly, taking the time for a quiet walk allows for a deeper connection with the raw, untouched natural beauty of the Eastern Himalayas.
Tam Dil, Mizoram
Meaning 'Lake of Mustard' in the Mizo language, Tam Dil is a man-made reservoir located near the town of Saitual. Surrounded by dense forests and hills, it's a haven of tranquillity. The area is ideal for peaceful lakeside walks and birdwatching. The state tourism department maintains facilities here, but the lake's setting within a biodiversity hotspot provides a feeling of being immersed in nature. Legends surround its origin, adding a layer of mystique to its calm waters. For those exploring Mizoram, Tam Dil offers a quiet retreat and a chance to experience the state's lush interior, far from the hustle of Aizawl. A walk along its shores, especially during the misty mornings, is a truly restorative experience.
