Pangong Tso, Ladakh
Famous for its appearance in the film '3 Idiots', Pangong Tso is a high-altitude saltwater lake situated at over 4,350 metres. Its most magical feature is its ability to change colour, shifting from shades of blue and green to reddish hues depending on the sunlight.
Stretching across the India-China border, only about a third of the lake is in India. Despite its saline water, the lake freezes solid in winter, creating a surreal, icy landscape. It's a haven for migratory birds like Bar-headed Geese and Brahminy Ducks during the summer. The journey to Pangong Tso, typically from Leh, involves crossing the challenging Chang La Pass, making the destination a reward for the adventurous.
Dal Lake, Jammu and Kashmir
Often called the 'Jewel in the crown of Kashmir', Dal Lake is the heart of Srinagar. It's not just a body of water but a vibrant ecosystem of houseboats, floating markets, and gardens. A stay in a traditional wooden houseboat, known as a 'shikara', offers an immersive cultural experience. These boats, often ornately carved, provide a unique vantage point to witness local life. Beyond the houseboats, you can explore the lake's floating vegetable market at dawn or visit the beautiful Mughal gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh that line its shores. A gentle shikara ride at sunset is an unforgettable way to experience its tranquil beauty.
Vembanad Lake, Kerala
Vembanad is the longest lake in India and the largest in Kerala, forming the heart of the state's famous backwaters. This vast expanse of water, fed by several rivers, is a vital part of life for many communities. The best way to explore its serene beauty is by hiring a 'kettuvallam', a traditional rice barge converted into a luxury houseboat. A cruise takes you through a network of canals and lagoons, past lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and charming villages. The lake is also home to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers, and hosts the famous Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race during the Onam festival.
Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim
Situated at a breathtaking altitude of 17,800 feet in North Sikkim, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world. Revered by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus, it is named after Guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to have visited it in the 8th century. Legend has it that he blessed a portion of the lake, which is why a small part never freezes, even in the harshest winters. The journey from Lachen is challenging and requires acclimatisation, but the reward is a stunning view of the turquoise waters set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Due to its proximity to the Indo-China border, permits are required for Indian tourists.
Loktak Lake, Manipur
Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and is famous for its unique 'phumdis'. These are floating islands of vegetation, soil, and organic matter, large enough to support entire communities living in huts called 'phumsangs'. The largest of these phumdis is home to the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the world's only floating national park. This unique park is the last natural refuge of the endangered Sangai, or dancing deer. The lake is the lifeline for the state of Manipur, serving as a source for hydropower, irrigation, and drinking water, while also supporting a thriving fishing community.
Chandratal Lake, Himachal Pradesh
Meaning 'Lake of the Moon', Chandratal gets its name from its crescent shape. Located at an altitude of about 14,100 feet in the Spiti Valley than this high altitude lake is a popular destination for trekkers and campers. The lake's crystalndear blue waters reflect surrounding barren mountains creating a stunning visual accessible from mid June to early October journey to Chandratal can be made from either Manali via Rohtang and Kunzum passes or from Kaza To protect its fragile ecosystem camping is not allowed directly on shore but in designated zones short walk away.
Chilika Lake, Odisha
Asia's largest brackish water lagoon Chilika Lake is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts This vast wetland is a designated Ramsar site and hosts an incredible biodiversity It is one of few places in world where you can spot endangered Irrawaddy dolphins During winter lake becomes major birding destination attracting over million migratory birds from as far as Siberia and Caspian Sea Visitors can take boat trips to explore many islands including Kalijai Island with famous temple and Nalabana Island dedicated bird sanctuary.
