As winter blankets the Himalayas, India’s frozen lakes transform into breathtaking destinations, tempting visitors to explore their icy beauty. From Kashmir to Sikkim, these high-altitude lakes offer a surreal
experience, attracting adventurers and nature lovers alike.
December to February is the best time to visit, as the extreme cold turns these lakes into sheets of ice, creating a magical landscape. When visiting these fragile regions, tourists must be mindful of local customs and traditions. Never vandalise surroundings or litter these pristine places. A strong civic sense is essential. Treat nature as your mother and keep it clean and protected.
Here is a list of some of the 5 best lakes that freeze across the Himalayas:
Pangong Tso, Ladakh: Stunning Blue Lake
Pangong Tso, made famous by the Bollywood film 3 Idiots, is a stunning high-altitude lake known for its changing shades of blue and dramatic mountain backdrop. Situated at a height of almost 4,350m, this is the world’s highest saltwater lake. Surrounded by barren mountains and clear skies, the lake offers a surreal winter spectacle as its vast surface freezes completely.
Roopkund Lake, Uttarakhand: A Mystical Frozen Lake
Surrounded by snow and alpine meadows, this is a famous high-altitude glacial lake in Uttarakhand. The lake, known for its mysterious human skeletons and scenic trekking routes, freezes during winter, creating an eerie yet striking landscape. It rests at an altitude of nearly 4,800 meters.
Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim: A Frozen Beauty
One of the world’s highest lakes across the world, Gurudongmar Lake is known for its spiritual significance and crystal-clear water. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and vast open landscapes, the lake freezes during winter, creating a dramatic sight. Located at an altitude of 17,800 ft (5,430 m), this lake is named after Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism.
Alpather Lake, Gulmarg, Kashmir: A Scenic Lake
At an altitude of 4380 meters, Alpather Lake is a scenic high-altitude lake situated at the base of the Apharwat Peak. The picturesque water body remains frozen during winters. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains and alpine beauty, it is a perfect destination for individuals looking for serenity and tranquillity.
Suraj Tal, Himachal Pradesh: A Frozen High-Altitude Lake
The lake is renowned for its mystical charm and crystal-clear waters framed by snow-capped peaks and verdant meadows, which transform into a dramatic frozen landscape between December and February. Known as the ‘Lake of the Sun’, it is nestled amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, near the Baralacha La Pass. It is renowned for its pristine waters, surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks, making it a major stop for trekkers and motorcyclists.
