You cannot miss this: Deoria Tal, an emerald lake perched high up for trek lover

Whether you are drawn by the religious significance of a place or its breathtaking scenery, Deoria Tal, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, is the place to be in summer. Set at an altitude of 2,438 meters, Deoria Tal is a stunning emerald lake with spectacular views. It is located about 3 kilometres from the Sari village in Uttarakhand, India, and is a picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery and the majestic, snow-covered Chaukhamba peaks.

Interestingly, Deoria Tal is steeped in both religious significance and natural beauty. Ancient Vedic scriptures mention it as the bathing place of the Devas. Local legends suggest that the lake was created by Bheem, the mightiest of the Pandavas, to quench his thirst. Deoria Tal’s blend of natural splendour, mythological heritage and peaceful ambience make it a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual solace, adventure or a retreat in nature’s lap. So, join us as we explore this stunning lake and the places around it.

Deoria Tal Trek, the trek of a lifetime

Many of us dream of witnessing the majestic Himalayas at least once in our lifetime and a visit to Deoria Tal is the perfect start to fulfilling this dream. Located in Uttarakhand, Deoria Tal is a tiny yet stunningly beautiful lake. This hidden gem has gradually become a favourite destination for those seeking offbeat adventures, particularly trekkers and campers.

The lake is situated close to the Sari village near Chopta and is perched at a height of 2,438 meters. Getting to Deoria Tal is an adventure in itself. From Delhi, it’s about 415 kilometres and from Rishikesh, it’s around 200 kilometres. The journey involves a scenic drive through the picturesque hills of Uttarakhand, followed by a 2.5-kilometer trek from Sari village. As you trek through the trail, you pass through beautiful forests of rhododendron, oak and alpine trees.

Once you reach Deoria Tal, you’re greeted by the pristine reflection of the Chaukhamba peaks on the clear green lake. Further, the area provides clear views of peaks like Bandarpoonch, Nilkantha, Kalanag and the Kedar Range. If you have more time and are a seasoned trekker, you can extend your trek further to Tungnath and Chandrashila.

A bird watcher’s paradise

To get to the Deoria Tal, one must trek through the heart of the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary, which is a true haven for bird watchers. The trail is one of the most heavily forested parts in the region and offers you a chance to spot some rare and beautiful birds, including the magnificent Himalayan Monal.

In fact, the portion from Chopta to Chandrashila is renowned for its frequent monal sightings, making it a sought-after destination for those eager to catch a glimpse of this elusive bird. The combination of dense forests and abundant birdlife makes the Deoria Tal trek an unforgettable experience for nature and bird enthusiasts alike.

Quaint little Sari Village

Sari is a charming 400-year-old village that serves as the starting point for the Deoria Tal-Chandrashila trek. It’s a lively place where you often see enthusiastic trekkers gearing up for an adventure of a lifetime. A picturesque village of lush wheat fields, apple and peach orchards along with vibrant rhododendrons and oak trees lining its boundaries, Sari is a must-visit.

If you arrive in Sari while the sun is still out, you can take a leisurely stroll through the village. While the beautifully laid-out paddy fields and some century-old abandoned rock houses are a sight to behold, you can catch your first glimpse of the Chandrashila summit from here. The views are truly breathtaking and set the stage for the adventure ahead.

Omkareshwar temple, the Lord’s winter abode

If you are enthusiastic about temples that are renowned for their beauty and architecture, you must visit the Omkareshwar Temple located in Ukhimath. This sacred Hindu shrine is just 14.7 km from Sari Village. The Omkareshwar Temple is not only a place of worship but also a significant cultural landmark. During the winter months (November-April), when the Kedarnath Temple is blanketed in snow, the deity from Kedarnath is ceremoniously brought to the Omkareshwar Temple and worshipped here. Similarly, idols from the Madhmaheshwar Temple are also moved to the Omkareshwar Temple. This ritual highlights the temple’s sacred role as a winter abode for deities and makes it a must-visit spiritual hub in the region.

Chopta, India’s Mini Switzerland

Imagine waking up to a cool, refreshing breeze and the melodious chirping of birds. Chopta promises all that and more. This picturesque hamlet is often referred to as the Mini Switzerland of India. A serene destination that offers a wonderful escape from the chaos of city life, the mornings in Chopta are breathtaking, with the sun rays kissing the snow-laden Himalayas.

This quiet haven is surrounded by dense forests of pine, deodar and the beautiful rhododendron. The lush greenery and diverse wildlife add to the charm of Chopta, making it unmissable for nature lovers.

Indeed, Deoria Tal lake and it’s lush surroundings offer a sanctuary for all who seek solace in nature’s embrace. Whether you visit it for its spiritual significance, breathtaking beauty or mountain views, Deoria Tal promises to be a memorable experience for all.