Rivers, Waterfalls & Scenic Beauty

Uttarakhand is a true paradise

Uttarakhand is a true paradise when it comes to lakes and scenic views — from emerald-green waters nestled among pine forests to shimmering high-altitude lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Here's a curated list of the most beautiful lakes and scenic spots you must explore:

Famous Lakes of Uttarakhand

1. Naini Lake (Nainital)

• Type: Freshwater, kidney-shaped lake
• Why Visit: Boating, evening strolls, reflection of surrounding hills
• Scenic View: The town lights twinkle on the water at night — magical!

2. Bhimtal Lake

• Location: Near Nainital
• Why Visit: Larger than Naini Lake, has an island in the center
• Scenic View: Serene waters with forested hills — less crowded than Nainital

3. Sattal (Seven Lakes)

• Location: 22 km from Nainital
• Why Visit: Cluster of 7 freshwater lakes, birdwatcher’s paradise
• Scenic View: Mist-covered mornings and peaceful atmosphere

4. Naukuchiatal (Lake of Nine Corners)

• Why Visit: Deepest lake in the Nainital region
• Scenic View: Surrounded by pine trees and hills, ideal for kayaking

5. Tehri Lake (Man-made Reservoir)

• Why Visit: Water sports hub — jet skiing, banana boat rides
• Scenic View: Turquoise waters with panoramic Himalayan backdrop

6. Hemkund Lake

• Location: Near Valley of Flowers, high altitude (4,632 m)
• Why Visit: Sacred Sikh site, accessible by trek
• Scenic View: Crystal-clear lake surrounded by snowy peaks — divine atmosphere

7. Roopkund Lake (Mystery Lake)

• Why Visit: Skeletons from ancient times found in the lake bed
• Scenic View: Frozen lake surrounded by glaciers and alpine meadows

8. Deoria Tal

• Location: Near Ukhimath, en route to Chopta
• Why Visit: Mirror-like lake reflecting Chaukhamba range
• Scenic View: Best for sunrise views and light treks

 Top Scenic Viewpoints

1. Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat, Nainital)

• Offers a panoramic view of the Nainital town and Kumaon hills

2. Snow View Point (Nainital)

• View of Nanda Devi, Trishul & Nanda Kot peaks

3. Kausani

• Nicknamed the “Switzerland of India” — stunning sunrise over snow peaks

4. Chopta (Mini Switzerland)

• Alpine meadows, forests, and views of Himalayan peaks like Chaukhamba and Kedarnath

5. Munsiyari

• Base for Milam and Ralam glaciers — dramatic views of Panchachuli peaks

6. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

• Zero Point offers 300 km views of Himalayan ranges

7. Auli

• Ski destination with sweeping views of Nanda Devi and surrounding mountains

 Want to Explore More?

I can suggest a travel itinerary focused just on lakes and scenic places — ideal for nature lovers, photographers, couples, or solo adventurers.

Would you like that? Or are you looking for something seasonal like "Best lake destinations for summer in Uttarakhand"?