Attraction Guide: Vasuki Tal, Rudraprayag, India

Vasuki Tal Guide

Vasuki Tal: A High-Altitude Emerald Dream Guide

Embark on an adventure to Vasuki Tal, a stunning high-altitude lake nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. This glacial lake, surrounded by towering peaks and pristine meadows, offers a challenging yet rewarding trek for experienced adventurers. Imagine yourself surrounded by the raw beauty of the Himalayas, breathing in the crisp mountain air, and gazing upon the emerald waters of Vasuki Tal – a truly unforgettable experience. Vasuki Tal, named after the serpent Vasuki from Hindu mythology, is believed to be a sacred lake. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu bathed in this lake on Raksha Bandhan. The lake is situated at an altitude of approximately 14,200 feet (4,330 meters), making it a challenging trek. The trail passes through rugged terrain, glaciers, and moraines, requiring a good level of fitness and acclimatization. The primary activity at Vasuki Tal is trekking. The trek typically starts from Kedarnath, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The trail from Kedarnath to Vasuki Tal is approximately 8 kilometers and is considered a difficult trek due to the high altitude and challenging terrain. The best time to visit Vasuki Tal is during the summer months (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when the weather is relatively stable. Due to its remote location and high altitude, there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with Vasuki Tal. However, you can find basic food and accommodation options in Kedarnath before and after your trek.

Transportation

The trek to Vasuki Tal starts from Kedarnath. Kedarnath is accessible by a combination of road and trekking. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gaurikund. Gaurikund is the last motorable point. From Gaurikund, you need to trek approximately 16 km to reach Kedarnath. Ponies and palanquins are also available for hire. From Kedarnath, the trek to Vasuki Tal is another 8 km.