Famous Lakes in Uttrakhand

 Uttarakhand, a state located in northern India, is known for its pristine natural beauty and abundant water bodies. Here are some famous lakes in Uttarakhand along with details of their historical and mythical importance, as well as popular tourism attractions:

1. Nainital Lake:

Nainital Uttarakhand 

- Location: Nainital

- Historical Importance: Nainital Lake is believed to be one of the 64 Shakti Peeths, where the left eye of the Hindu goddess Sati is said to have fallen. It is also mentioned in the ancient scriptures of the Skanda Purana.

- Mythical Importance: According to local legends, Nainital Lake is believed to be the emerald green eyes of the Hindu deity Lord Shiva's wife, Sati.

- Tourism Attractions: Boating and yachting on the lake, Naini Devi Temple located on the northern shore, and the Mall Road lined with shops and restaurants.

2. Bhimtal Lake:

- Location: Bhimtal, near Nainital

- Historical Importance: Bhimtal Lake is named after the Pandava prince Bhima from the Indian epic, Mahabharata. It is believed that Bhima created this lake by hollowing out the ground using his mighty powers.

- Mythical Importance: The lake is also associated with the story of the demon Bheelasur, who was defeated by Lord Bhima.

- Tourism Attractions: Bhimtal Island Aquarium located in the middle of the lake, Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple, boating, and kayaking.

3. Roopkund Lake (Skeleton Lake):

Roopkund Lake

- Location: Chamoli district

- Historical Importance: Roopkund Lake gained fame due to the presence of hundreds of human skeletons found near its shores. These skeletons are believed to be from the 9th century and are a mystery to historians and scientists.

- Tourism Attractions: Trekking to Roopkund Lake through beautiful alpine meadows and dense forests, experiencing the stunning Himalayan views.

4. Hemkund Lake:

- Location: Chamoli district

- Historical Importance: Hemkund Lake is a sacred Sikh pilgrimage site associated with Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. It is believed that he meditated by the lake in a previous life.

- Mythical Importance: According to the Hindu epic, Ramayana, Hemkund Lake is believed to be the place where Lord Lakshmana, the brother of Lord Rama, regained consciousness after being injured in a battle.

- Tourism Attractions: Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and a variety of alpine flowers during the summer months, Valley of Flowers National Park nearby.

5. Kedartal (Shiva's Lake):

- Location: Gangotri National Park

- Mythical Importance: Kedartal is considered a sacred lake by Hindus and is associated with Lord Shiva. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva performed meditation and is one of the highest lakes in Uttarakhand.

- Tourism Attractions: Trekking to Kedartal through challenging terrains, magnificent views of surrounding peaks including Thalay Sagar and Bhrigupanth.

These are just a few examples of the famous lakes in Uttarakhand with historical and mythical importance. Uttarakhand offers many more lakes and natural wonders that attract tourists from around the world, providing opportunities for adventure, spiritual experiences, and breathtaking scenery.