Kedarnath Vasuki Tal – Complete Trek Guide, Distance, Height & Best Time

Vasuki Tal is a stunning high-altitude alpine lake hidden deep in the Garhwal Himalayas, close to Kedarnath Temple. Known for its turquoise waters, dramatic glaciers, and raw Himalayan wilderness, Kedarnath Vasuki Tal is a dream trek for experienced adventurers seeking an offbeat challenge beyond the Char Dham crowds.

📍 Where is Vasuki Tal Located?

Vasuki Tal lies in Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand, within the Kedarnath region and close to the Indo-Tibetan watershed.

• Region: Garhwal Himalayas

• Nearest pilgrimage: Kedarnath

• River system: Glacial streams feeding the Mandakini basin

📏 Kedarnath to Vasuki Tal Distance

• Kedarnath to Vasuki Tal distance: ~8 km (one way)

• Trek duration: 1 long day (8–10 hours) or split into 2 days

• Trail type: Steep, rocky, glacier-fed streams, moraine sections

Though short in distance, this trek is physically demanding due to altitude gain and rugged terrain.

⛰️ Vasuki Tal Height (Altitude)

• Vasuki Tal height: 4,135 meters (13,566 ft) above sea level

At this elevation, altitude sickness is a real risk—proper acclimatization at Kedarnath is essential.

🥾 Kedarnath Vasuki Tal Trek Route

Route:
Kedarnath → Vasuki Glacier → Vasuki Tal → return same way

The trail starts behind Kedarnath town, gradually ascending over rocky paths, snow patches (early season), and glacial streams. As you climb, panoramic views open up of Chaukhamba massif, surrounding glaciers, and high Himalayan ridges.

This trek is not recommended for beginners and should be attempted only with a registered local guide.

🕉️ Mythological Significance of Vasuki Tal

According to Hindu mythology, Vasuki Tal is named after Vasuki Naag, the celestial serpent of Lord Shiva. It is believed that:

• Lord Vishnu bathed in Vasuki Tal

• Sage Ved Vyas meditated here

• The lake holds deep spiritual energy due to its proximity to Kedarnath

For spiritual trekkers, the lake is considered a sacred extension of the Kedarnath pilgrimage.

Suggested Read –Panch Kedar Pilgrimage – Shiva Temples in Uttarakhand

🌊 Vasuki Tal Lake – Natural Beauty

Vasuki Tal is a crystal-clear glacial lake surrounded by:

• Snow-covered peaks

• Massive boulders and moraines

• Silent Himalayan wilderness

On clear days, the lake reflects the surrounding mountains, creating a surreal and untouched Himalayan landscape—perfect for high-altitude photography.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Vasuki Tal

✅ Ideal Season

• June to September

  • Snow begins to melt

  • Trek routes become accessible

  • Weather relatively stable

❌ Avoid

• October to May

  • Heavy snowfall

  • Frozen trails

  • High avalanche risk

⚠️ Important Trek Tips

• Prior high-altitude trekking experience required

• Hire a local guide from Kedarnath or Guptkashi

• Carry warm layers, rain protection & trekking poles

• Start early in the morning

• No permanent shelters—camping gear needed if splitting trek

• Weather changes rapidly; be prepared

🏔️ Vasuki Tal vs Kedarnath – Who Should Do This Trek?

Vasuki Tal is ideal for trekkers who want to go beyond Kedarnath into raw Himalayan terrain.

🌄 Conclusion

Kedarnath Vasuki Tal is not just a trek—it’s a journey into the untamed soul of the Himalayas. Combining mythological depth, glacial landscapes, and high-altitude adventure, Vasuki Tal remains one of Uttarakhand’s most underrated alpine lakes.

If you are fit, well-prepared, and seeking solitude far above the pilgrim trails, Vasuki Tal will reward you with an unforgettable Himalayan experience.