Discover Nachiketa Tal Uttarkashi: A Legendary Himalayan Lake

“In the Gajana region of Uttarkashi district, Nachiketa Tal is situated at an altitude of about eight thousand feet above sea level, the Nachiketa Tal is famous for its natural scenic beauty and is also an important place from a religious point of view. The lake itself hides within it the mystery of death.

According to mythological beliefs, Yamaraj shared the secret of death with Rishi Kumar Nachiketa on the banks of this lake. Therefore, this lake is named Nachiketa Tal.

Spread over an area of about one kilometer, Nachiketa Tal is the place of penance (tapasthali) of Rishi Kumar Nachiketa, along with the Nag Devta. A short distance from this tapasthali, there is a small cave known as the Yam Dwar (gateway to Yama).”

 Overview: Nachiketa Tal Uttarkashi

Nachiketa Tal lies in the northeast of Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, at an altitude of 2,453 meters above sea level. The lake, elliptical in shape, measures about 200 meters in length and 30 meters in width at its broadest points, with a depth of 7 meters. It lies between latitude N 30° 27′ and longitude E 71° 72′. The lake has no discernible inlet or outlet.

Floklores

“According to mythological beliefs, there was a rishi named Bajshrava. Once, while performing a yajna (sacrifice), he was giving cows in donation, but the cows he was donating were those that did not give milk. Then his son Nachiketa felt bad and said, ‘If someday I am also of no use to you, then to whom will you donate me?’”

“Then Rishi Bajshrava become angry and, donated his son to Yamaraj. According to beliefs, Nachiketa reached Yamlok (the abode of Yama), but not finding Yamaraj there, he waited for three days for him. When Yamaraj arrived, he told the boy to ask for three boons.”

“Then Nachiketa first asked for his father’s anger to be calmed and  knowledge of the Yajna ritual. The third thing he asked from Yamaraj,  the knowledge of death and  mystery after death but Yamaraj refused, saying that it was confidential.

After that, Nachiketa performed tapasya near the lake situated close to Chaurangikhal, as mentioned in Kedarkhand. Then Yam pleased, gave him the knowledge of the mystery of death there. Later, that lake came to be known as Nachiketa Tal

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Chaurangi Khal to Nachiketa Tal Uttarkashi

Nachiketa Tal is a lake accessible via a moderate 3 km trek from Chaurangi Khal.  The trek is a small one and can  complete it  in 1 to 1.5 hours. The first glimpse of the lake is truly mesmerizing. The clear waters of the lake are home to fish, and its banks offer a peaceful retreat amidst nature.

Accessibility:

Nachiketa Tal Uttarkashi is easily accessible as the Garhwal region is well-connected by motorable roads from major cities in India.

From Delhi: By Bus or Train: Travel to Uttarkashi.
From Uttarkashi: Hire a taxi to Chaurangi Khal, which is 30 km away.

Chaurangi Khal

It is located in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, India, is a place of serene natural beauty with lofty mountains and lush landscapes.  Chaurangi Khal offers stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, making it a perfect spot for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The area is rich in diverse flora and fauna, and it’s common to encounter wildlife in their natural habitat. The region offers cultural significance, with small villages where local traditions and customs can be observed.

From Chaurangi Khal to  Nachiketa Tal Uttarkashi

Begin a 3 km trek from this tiny hamlet on the Uttarkashi-Lambgaon motor road to reach the serene Nachiketa Tal. The moderate hike offers a peaceful and scenic journey to the lake.

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